How the Coronavirus Is Impacting College Admissions: College Visits

College visits have been seriously impacted by the coronavirus. Many universities have cancelled all campus visits for the foreseeable future. This is a problem for students evaluating which colleges to apply to this fall. However, there are several alternatives available to aid in the decision process.

The colleges that have ended in-person visits include many schools throughout the country. It is unclear when campus visits will begin. In place of physical visits, most colleges offer virtual campus tours. Although not the same as experiencing a campus in person, these can be very helpful in getting a feel for a campus. Many colleges have also created more online content for prospective students to aid in the selection process.

Another alternative to on campus tours are zoom sessions offered by some colleges. These may include information sessions held by admissions officers or by current students. These are not usually available, but have been created due to the impacts of the coronavirus. Students and families should take advantage of these programs if offered.

Some colleges offer ways to contact current students and alumni. If a student wants to email a college's admission office to ask for this information it is likely that officers will be more than willing to connect them with a student ambassador. This would allow for invaluable information about life at the university.

Visiting a college can be helpful, but it is not completely essential. Regardless of the coronavirus, college tours are not a necessary part of the college selection process and an informed decision can be made through online research about a college's campus, curriculum, location, culture, and size. These factors will help students assemble a college list and make an ultimate decision regarding which one to attend.