HOW DO I GET THE MOST OUT OF A UNIVERSITY OPEN DAY?

Going to open days can help you make a well-informed decision about where and what to study, based on the real-life experience on the ground. If you attend an Open Day with your parents/guardians, don’t let them ask all the questions for you, and make sure you speak to the student reps who will be on hand to show you around.

When are they?

A list of open days is available on either www.opendays.com/calendar OR www.ucas.com/ucas/events/find/type/open-day OR on individual institution websites.

Getting prepared before you go

• Make a list of the courses you want to look at.

• Get hold of a map of the campus (you can usually download this from the university website)

• Make a list of questions you would like to ask.

• Find out what time the talks and tours are scheduled for and make a plan for your day.

• Pack a pen and note pad to take notes.

Questions to ask

Consider all of the aspects of university life when you are coming up with your questions. For example, questions for the course tutors could cover the course itself but also careers prospects.

Think about what questions you might have about the accommodation, and think about what you would like by way of accommodation so that you can ask to see exactly where you will be. Some halls are self-catering, while some provide breakfast and dinner. Some are mixed girls and boys, while some will have single-sex floors or buildings. You should be able to see an example of each one at the open day.

Find out what university is really like by asking one of the many current students who will be on hand. Don't be shy, they're there to help! Perhaps you could ask them what the cost of living is really like in their particular city or town? Or what sports and societies are on offer.

Need some more inspiration? We have lots of suggested questions to ask on our website.