Updated 5/26/2020

Visiting colleges in person used to be the best way to gauge which ones are the right fit for you. However, with campuses closed across the country that just isn’t possible right now.

Here are our top 5 tips for finding out remotely if that college of your dreams is really the place for you.

Take a Virtual Tour/Information Session from the comfort of your own home.

Many college websites now include an online tour with audio guide that can give you a feel for the college campus. You Visit and CampusTours are two popular sites that can quickly help you find colleges that offer this feature. Given the current situation, more colleges than ever have virtual tours available from their websites.

With campuses closed to the public, many colleges are now offering virtual information sessions. You can sign up to attend a live event and a Q & A session, with some universities posting recorded information sessions on their websites. Strive Scan is currently hosting a virtual college fair and is compiling a list of recorded information sessions from both US and international higher education institutions.

Student Voices: Find out what students at college really think about their school.

The slick online tour might leave you wondering, is this really what it's like? Take a look at YOUniversityTV - videos by and for students. Campus Reel also has student made videos from over 300 colleges on many different aspects of student life. Find out what the dorms are really like and how the food on campus tastes.

Many universities have blogs written by students on their websites. They can be invaluable - but read carefully. The posts can vary greatly from the blatantly honest to those that show only the scrubbed and shiny image that a college wants to project.

Social Media: Universities love to brag.

Following Facebook pages can help you keep up-to-date with colleges’ events and achievements. Sign up for newsletters and mailing lists, and follow on Instagram, Twitter etc. for an insight into what is happening while campuses are closed and how they are preparing for the future.

Check out the Reviews and find out what people are saying about your prospective college.

• Online Reviews - Niche and Unigo are examples of sites offering student feedback.

• College Guide Books - Of note are the Fiske Guide to Colleges and The Princeton Review books.

Get in Touch: Reach out and make a personal contact.

• Ask a Question - Look on the college website for contact information and email asking a genuine question. Avoid asking for information easily found on their website. Are they responsive? Helpful?

• Speak to Someone - Many colleges offer chats with current students or alums, as well as the opportunity to speak to an admissions officer.

• College Fairs - Attend virtual college fairs, such as the events hosted by Coalition for College, and send questions to college representatives.

• Interview - If offered, sign up for an interview as they can be held via video conferencing or phone.

Research your college well before making a final decision. Pomona is a great example of how colleges are making it easier than ever to make a connection remotely. The effort invested will be invaluable when you roll up on move-in day and already feel at home.

Contact Admission Pathways today for affordable help during your journey to college.