Choosing a college is one of the biggest decisions students make after the Leaving Cert, and an open day can reveal far more than a prospectus. This college open day checklist helps students and families ask practical questions about courses, costs, accommodation, careers and support before making a decision.
Open days offer prospective students the chance to walk through a campus, meet lecturers, speak with current students and experience the atmosphere of an institution. They are also an opportunity to test whether a course and college match your expectations—not simply whether the campus looks impressive.
How to prepare before a college open day
Preparation can make the day more useful. Before travelling, identify the issues that matter most to you, whether that is course content, student finance, accessible facilities, career prospects or accommodation.
Create a short list of questions and leave space to record answers. If possible, speak to more than one person about important issues, particularly when asking about workload, progression or student support.
- Review the course information online before attending.
- Check the likely entry requirements and application route.
- Bring a notebook or use your phone to record details.
- Ask current students what daily life is really like.
- Follow up on any answer that seems vague or incomplete.
College open day checklist: questions about the course
The course should be the central focus of your visit. A familiar title does not always mean the same content across different institutions, so examine the structure carefully.
- What are the current entry requirements?
- Which subjects and modules are covered in first year?
- What options are available in later years?
- Is teaching delivered in person, online or through a hybrid model?
- Are lectures recorded for students who need to review them?
- How much assessment is continuous, and how much is based on examinations?
- How large are lectures, tutorials and practical classes?
- Will students have opportunities to meet tutors individually?
- Are study-abroad placements or internships available?
- What proportion of first-year students progress into second year?
Ask whether the course includes practical work, placements or projects connected to the profession. These details can affect both the student experience and the skills gained before graduation.
Fees, grants and the real cost of studying
Financial planning is essential. Tuition-related costs are only one part of the budget; transport, accommodation, equipment, software, food and social activities can also add up.
Ask the college which supports are available and where applications are handled. Students should also clarify whether scholarships are aimed at incoming students, continuing students or particular subject areas.
- Which scholarships, bursaries or hardship funds are available?
- Where can students find a complete list of financial supports?
- Who should be contacted if financial difficulties arise during the year?
- Will the course require specialist equipment, software or technology?
- Are there additional charges for placements, materials or field trips?
Career prospects and graduate outcomes
A useful open day question is not simply, “What jobs can this course lead to?” Ask for specific information about graduate destinations and the support provided while students are studying.
- What careers have recent graduates entered?
- Which employers recruit from the course?
- How many graduates move into employment or further study within 12 months?
- Are work placements or employer projects part of the programme?
- Does the college provide CV, interview and job-placement support?
Career statistics should be understood in context. Ask whether figures cover the whole institution or the specific course, and whether they include graduates who continue into postgraduate education.
Look beyond the lecture halls
The wider campus can shape daily life just as much as the course. During your visit, check the library, study areas, sports facilities, clubs, societies and shared spaces.
Important questions include:
- What are the library opening hours during term and exam periods?
- Which sports clubs and student societies are active?
- Is there a health centre or on-campus medical service?
- What quiet, social and recreational spaces are available?
- How safe is the campus after dark?
Current students can often provide the most honest insight into workload, social life and the availability of facilities at busy times.
Accommodation and transport questions
Accommodation availability and cost can influence whether a course is practical. Ask for precise information rather than relying on general assurances.
- What types of college accommodation are available?
- How much does it cost, and what is included?
- What deposit and contract length apply?
- How far are residences from teaching buildings?
- Are rooms single or shared?
- What are the application deadlines?
- How difficult is it to find private rental accommodation nearby?
Also examine transport links, including buses, rail connections, cycling routes and accessibility. The cheapest accommodation may not be the most affordable option if commuting takes significant time and money.
Accessibility, wellbeing and student support
Students with disabilities, medical conditions, mental-health needs or neurodivergent conditions should ask about support before accepting a place. Early contact can help ensure reasonable accommodations are discussed in advance.
- Are buildings, entrances and teaching rooms wheelchair accessible?
- What parking and drop-off arrangements are available?
- Which academic accommodations can be provided?
- Who coordinates disability and learning support?
- What counselling and mental-health services are offered?
- Are there student groups for disabled, neurodivergent or mental-health communities?
Ask whether support continues throughout the course and how students request adjustments. Clear procedures can make the transition from secondary school to third level much smoother.
What to do after the open day
Once the visit is over, compare colleges using the same categories: course content, teaching style, cost, accommodation, support, transport and career opportunities. Separate confirmed information from impressions and identify any questions that require follow-up with admissions or student services.
It can also help to score each option against your personal priorities. A college that feels welcoming may be a strong choice, but the final decision should also reflect academic fit, affordability and realistic living arrangements.
Frequently asked questions
What should I bring to a college open day?
Bring a prepared question list, a phone or notebook for notes, and any information needed to discuss course requirements or support arrangements.
Should parents attend a college open day?
Parents or guardians can attend if the student finds it helpful, but students should have time to speak directly with lecturers and current students.
What is the most important question to ask?
There is no single answer. Ask whether the course content, teaching approach, total cost and support available match your own needs and plans.
The key takeaway for prospective students
A college open day is a fact-finding opportunity, not just a campus tour. Use this college open day checklist to investigate the course, finances, accommodation, accessibility and future career options before making a major decision. The best choice is the institution that offers the right academic fit and a realistic, supportive student experience.
