How important are college visits?

Hey everyone, I'm a junior and I'm starting to think about which colleges to apply to. I'm wondering how important college visits are in the admissions process and if I should try to visit all the schools on my list. Any advice? Thanks!

Hi there! It's great that you're starting to think about college applications. As for college visits, they can be a valuable part of the process for several reasons. First, they give you a chance to get a feel for the campus and the overall vibe of a school. This can help you determine if you can see yourself fitting in there, as well as if the school's values align with yours. Additionally, visiting can give you an opportunity to ask specific questions about programs, resources, and student life that you might not be able to find on the school's website.

As for their importance in the admissions process, it can vary by school. Some colleges do track demonstrated interest, which means they might take note of your visit and consider it when reviewing your application. However, for many schools, visiting won't directly impact your chances of admission.

It might not be feasible to visit every school on your list, and that's okay. You can try narrowing down your visits to schools you're most interested in or to those that are closer to where you live. Remember, there are also other ways to learn about a school, like attending virtual tours and information sessions, or connecting with current students and alumni. Good luck on your college search!