Virtual Campus Tours: Evaluation Tips | Scoir

Lots of colleges have started running virtual tours these past few years. This can be a great, low-cost way to get to know colleges that aren't in your community! So...how can you make the most of these virtual events?

Make a list of what’s important to you and what you want to learn by the end of the tour. We’ve put together a brief checklist of considerations and questions for you. During your virtual tour, try to follow along and find answers to these questions.

These questions can also apply for in-person college tours. 

Questions About Academics

• Do they offer your desired major or minor?
• Who is the contact person for the major(s) you’re currently considering?
• What topics do professors research or publish on? Do these interest you?
• If you’re undecided, do they offer a program to help you choose a major?
• If you’ve chosen a major, what are the career prospects after graduation?
• What opportunities exist for hands-on learning outside the classroom?
• What’s the average class size, and how accessible are professors?
• Are research or independent study options available for undergraduates?

Outside the Classroom

• What clubs or organizations are offered in your career path?
• Can you continue a sport or fine art non-competitively? Do they offer options?
• What do students do on campus to stay mentally and physically healthy?
• Are students required to pay for athletic events? If so, how much?
• Is tutoring available? What is the cost and where is it offered?
• Are counseling sessions available to students at no cost?
• Where do students go if they get sick? Is there a cost or insurance requirement?
• What organizations support first-generation college-bound students?
• What are the most popular student events or traditions on campus?
• How easy is it to get involved and meet people?

Room & Board Options

• Which dorms are for freshmen?
• What are the differences and costs between these options?
• What meal plans are offered?
• What are the cost differences and available food options?
• What happens if I don’t use all of my meal plan by semester’s end?
• How can I become a Resident Assistant (RA)?
• Do RAs receive free room and board for assisting new students?
• Are there options for themed housing or living-learning communities?
• How safe do students feel in residence halls and around campus?

Cost

• What is the Cost of Attendance (COA)? What’s the average cost per student?
• Can the college meet full financial need?
• What are the requirements for academic scholarships?
• Are there additional fees for labs, technology, or campus services?
• Does the college offer payment plans or tuition installment options?

Admission Requirements

• What GPA, test scores, and core courses are required for admission?
• What GPA, test scores, and class rank are required for scholarships?
• Does the college have test-optional or test-flexible policies?
• Is demonstrated interest considered during admissions?

Career Preparation & Outcomes

• What percentage of graduates are employed or in graduate school within six months?
• What types of internships or co-op programs are available?
• Does the college connect students with alumni or employers?
• Are there on-campus job opportunities or career fairs?
• How does the college support students exploring career paths early on?

Student Life & Community

• What does a typical weekend look like on campus?
• Do most students stay on campus or go home on weekends?
• How would you describe the campus culture (collaborative, competitive, social)?
• What’s the local community like? Are there restaurants, stores, or things to do nearby?
• Are there leadership opportunities or student government roles?

Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging

• How diverse is the student population?
• Are there multicultural organizations or identity-based student groups?
• How does the school support underrepresented or marginalized students?
• What is the campus culture like around inclusion and open dialogue?

Technology & Learning Environment

• How are class lessons delivered? Lectures, discussions, or project-based learning?
• What technology tools or platforms are commonly used?
• Are classes recorded or available asynchronously for flexibility?
• Is there strong Wi-Fi and access to digital resources across campus?

Location & Accessibility

• How far is the campus from major cities or airports?
• Is public transportation available to and from campus?
• How do students typically get around (walking, biking, campus shuttles)?
• What’s the weather like year-round?

Once you determine your end goal, begin a virtual tour of your own on Scoir! Take notes to compare each campus. It can be difficult to get a true feel for a campus virtually, so research student rankings on professors, academics, food, and the social scene. 

If a college or university remains on your list after your virtual tour, visit its admissions page and sign up for virtual information events. Letting colleges know you’re interested can help you stand out. Many schools also offer virtual one-on-one meetings to answer questions. Then, once you've narrowed down your college list, consider visiting your top schools in person.

Taking virtual tours, emailing professors, attending information sessions, and requesting virtual appointments are great ways to stay engaged in the college process.