How College Tours Can Lower Your Cost of College November 12, 2009

Ian Welham on how college tours can save you money on college.

Many New Jersey families struggle with which colleges to apply to. There is always the argument about community colleges versus universities and in-state versus out-of-state. But what about the colleges themselves —why are you or why is your child interested in this school? Is it simply the prestige, is it that a family member graduated from the school or is it in a region that you’ve always liked to travel? Regardless, it is very important that you take a tour of the colleges you are considering. Although visiting many colleges can be expensive, the return can be priceless.

Some families only visit the colleges that they receive acceptance letters from. This is not always the best choice because most acceptance letters are mailed in mid-February and now you have to make a decision and usually a deposit by the beginning of May. This leaves you very little time to make an educated decision, but now you are crammed for time and the pressure is on.

Another good reason for taking a college tour is that you can use that experience when you apply. It gives you an advantage over others who have not taken the time to see the college. You can reference your trip in your essay or simply write a thank-you with your application stating the day you went, the tour ambassador you had and your wonderful experience! Now, for those of you who cannot visit but still want a little edge, sign up for the college or university’s monthly newsletter; it will still show you have interest and a contact in the school.

Of course the main way you will save money on college by taking a tour is that it will help you choose the best-fit school. You can feel confident in your decision because you have seen and experienced it in person and feel that you would fit in to this atmosphere. In this way you’re significantly reducing the chances of leaving mid semester and forfeiting your first semester’s tuition and room and board fees. Not to mention that you would then have to start the college selection process all over again!

This all sounds great, but how can you afford to visit all of the schools on your list? Here are a few ideas:

• Try to combine all of your colleges in one region into one visit. Or if possible plan in advance and make it a family vacation, that way you are spending money on two very important trips in one.
• Find out if your high school organizes trips to any of the colleges on your list, you will save a bundle.
• Ask the admissions office about discounts at local hotels and car rentals, but try to avoid busy college events like parents weekend or move-in weekend because the rates will be higher.
• Amtrak offers a two-for-one special for families visiting colleges in certain regions.
• Don’t bother visiting schools that don’t match your requirements. For example, do your research to know—in advance—which schools meet the highest percentage of need, and which schools have the best graduation rates and whose graduate have the highest success rate for getting jobs.

Want more tips on how to maximize your college tour? Read our article How to Get the Most Out of a College Tour, written by a former admissions representative at a New Jersey College. You’ll find it in our library, or click here.