Visiting colleges is an exciting step in your college journey. It’s your chance to explore campuses, meet new people, and start picturing where you’ll spend the next few years growing academically and personally. Every college has its own personality, programs, and opportunities, and the best way to discover whether a school is the right fit for you is by asking the admissions counselor questions.
What Are Good Questions To Ask a College Admissions Counselor?
Use this list to help you come prepared with good questions to ask college reps so you can make a confident, informed decision about your future.
1. What Programs of Study Do You Offer?
You should confirm that a college offers the major or academic program you’re interested in. You can also learn about other programs in case your interests vary. Every college has unique strengths. Some might have powerful STEM programs, while others may have strong business, teaching, and nursing schools.
Asking about programs of study can also help you better understand if you can choose a major that fits your interests and long-term goals, or if you’ll need to explore a different college to find what you’re looking for.
2. What Is the Average Class Size and Student-to-Faculty Ratio?
The size of your classes and the student-to-faculty ratio can greatly affect your learning experience. These numbers tell you how personalized or large the classroom setting might be.
For instance, in the U.S., the average student-to-faculty ratio is about 18:1 (18 students per professor). A much lower ratio of 13:1, like The University of Olivet offers, often means you’ll have more individualized attention, which creates a supportive learning environment.
Asking about average class size also gives you insight into the typical classroom experience. Big universities may offer large lecture-style introductory courses, while smaller colleges often keep classes personal and discussion-based. Think about your own preferences: Would you thrive in a big lecture, or do you prefer a small, seminar-style class?
3. What Are the Admissions Requirements?
College admissions requirements can include specific high school courses, standardized tests (SAT/ACT), essays, recommendation letters, minimum GPAs, and more. Every college has different requirements, so it’s important to know them to make sure you’re eligible.
Becoming familiar with the details helps you budget your time and effort wisely during application season. You can focus on strengthening any areas needed, retake a test, polish your portfolio, or schedule an interview rather than scrambling at the last minute.
4. Are There Any Direct-Admission Programs?
Some colleges offer direct admission programs, meaning you can be admitted straight into a specific program or professional track as a first-year student. This is especially common for competitive fields like nursing, engineering, business, or combined bachelor’s/master’s programs.
If the college doesn’t offer direct admission for the program you want, the counselor’s answer can still guide you. You might ask about the process of getting into that major after your first year. If they do have a direct admission option, like a guaranteed seat in a nursing program or a 3+2 law program (where you earn your bachelor’s and law degrees in five years instead of seven), that could be a deciding factor in choosing that school.
5. How Does Your College Support Undergraduate Research Opportunities?
If you’re curious about research, ask your admissions counselor what kinds of projects or hands-on experiences students can be part of. Undergraduate research can be one of the most enriching experiences in college because it lets you work closely with professors, apply what you learn in class, and contribute new knowledge or creative work in your field. Not all colleges emphasize undergrad research equally, so asking about it will show you how much support and opportunity you might get.
For example, does the college have formal programs for research assistantships? Are there summer research fellowships or chances to publish or present findings? The answer can reveal the college’s commitment to learning beyond the classroom.
6. What Is the Campus Culture Like?
Every college has its own personality and vibe, which is often referred to as campus culture or student life. Asking about campus culture opens up a conversation about what day-to-day life feels like at that school. Is it a vibrant, bustling campus or more laid-back and close-knit? What values or traditions stand out?
You’re not just choosing a school for academics; you’re choosing a community and a lifestyle for the next four years. You want a place where you can be yourself, make friends, and feel at home, so ask a college representative this question to assess whether the campus energy fits your personality.
7. What Extracurricular Activities Are Available?
Research shows that college students who participate in extracurricular activities are more likely to stay enrolled and have higher GPAs. Ask about college sports, clubs, arts, leadership programs, and volunteer opportunities. Think about what you enjoy now and what you might want to try in college.
Volunteering through a service club, joining a debate team, or participating in theater productions can enrich your experience and help you feel connected to the community. Some colleges also offer funding for student-led initiatives, which can be great if you want to start your own club or project. A vibrant extracurricular scene not only adds fun to your college life but also gives you experiences that look great on a resume.
8. Are Students Allowed To Have Cars on Campus?
Some colleges allow all students to have cars, while others may limit who can park. If bringing a car is important to you, ask whether it’s allowed, how much parking permits cost, and whether parking is easily available.
Understanding transportation options can also give you a sense of how students get around. If cars aren’t permitted, is there a reliable campus shuttle? Are shops within walking distance, or will you need to bike or rely on public transportation? Having a clear picture helps you plan your day-to-day logistics.
9. What Is the Surrounding Community Like?
The town or city around your campus can shape your experience. Ask about the area’s size, community atmosphere, and how the school keeps students supported and safe. Are there places to eat, shop, or hang out? What kind of off-campus opportunities exist for internships, part-time work, or entertainment?
This question is also about lifestyle fit. If you love nature, ask about hiking trails or parks. If you enjoy city life, ask how close you are to museums, concerts, or job opportunities. A strong surrounding community can enhance your college years and make life outside the classroom just as rewarding.
10. What Dining Options Are Available on Campus?
You’ll likely eat most meals on campus, so it’s important to ask about dining hall variety, meal plan flexibility, and accommodations for dietary needs.
Are there multiple locations to choose from? Do they offer vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or allergy-friendly meals? What are the hours, and can you grab meals between classes? Good dining options contribute to your well-being and make daily life easier, especially when you’re juggling classes, studying, and extracurriculars.
11. What Types of Financial Aid Are Available?
Ask the admissions counselor if the college you’re interested in offers grants, scholarships, or loans. You’ll also want to know what percentage of students receive financial assistance and what the typical award amounts look like. For example, 100% of undergraduate students at The University of Olivet receive financial aid.
12. Do You Offer Merit-Based Scholarships?
If you have a strong academic record, special talent, or leadership background, a merit scholarship could be one way to make college more affordable. Ask the college representative what kinds of scholarships the school offers, what criteria they use to pick winners, and whether the scholarship requires a separate application. You might also ask if the scholarships are renewable each year and what you need to do to maintain them.
Even if a college doesn’t offer many merit-based scholarships directly, an admissions counselor can often connect you with outside opportunities. For example, the Michigan Achievement Scholarship offers up to $5,500 per year for eligible students enrolled at a Michigan public university. This opportunity can lower your tuition in Michigan and make attending certain colleges more financially accessible.
13. What Is the Average Financial Aid Package?
The average financial aid package tells you how much support most students receive. While your aid will depend on your personal situation, average figures help you estimate net cost.
Ask how much of the package is made up of grants versus loans. You could also ask whether the college offers enough financial aid to cover what your family is expected to contribute based on your financial situation. These details help you and your family make informed decisions and compare offers between schools more effectively.
14. Are There Opportunities for On-Campus Employment?
Jobs on campus can help you earn extra income while staying involved in the college community. Ask how many students participate in work-study or campus employment and what roles are commonly available. These jobs often offer flexible hours and make it easier to balance work and academics.
Working at the library, fitness center, or admissions office can give you new skills and help you meet people. Ask how easy it is to find a job and what the application process looks like. It’s helpful to know whether these opportunities are competitive and what kind of support the college offers to help students find employment.
15. What Is the Cost of Attendance?
Ask the admissions counselor to break down the cost of tuition, housing, meal plans, fees, and your estimated personal expenses. Knowing this information will help you compare colleges side by side so you can decide whether each one provides the value you’re looking for.
The University of Olivet Is Ready To Answer Your Admissions Questions
Asking questions about college admissions helps you find a school that will support you, challenge you, and help you feel seen as an individual. At The University of Olivet, that sense of belonging defines the campus culture. The community is close-knit and welcoming, and every student is encouraged to grow in their own way.
Faculty members are mentors who know you personally and are invested in your success, both in and out of the classroom. Whether you’re diving into academics, pursuing athletics, or serving the community, life at The University of Olivet is about connection, purpose, and discovering what inspires you most.
If you’re ready to find a college where your potential is recognized and your goals are within reach, apply to The University of Olivet.