Student Friendly Guide to University Open Days: How to Make the Most of Your Visit

Choosing a university is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make as a student – and open days are your best chance to experience what life could be like on campus. 

They’re more than just tours and free tote bags. Open days give you the opportunity to connect with the vibe of a university, explore its spaces, meet its people, and ask the kinds of questions that matter to you.

Whether you’re visiting your dream uni or simply exploring options, open days can reveal a lot about where you’ll feel happiest and most supported over the next few years. 

This guide will walk you through how to prepare, what to expect, and how to get the most out of every visit.

Why Open Days Matter

Open days offer a glimpse beyond the glossy photos and course brochures. They let you experience the reality of university life – how the campus feels, how friendly the students are, and what it might be like to call that place home. 

It’s one thing to read about a university online, but another thing entirely to walk through its buildings, grab a snack in the student union, and chat with current students about their experience.

Attending an open day can either confirm your first-choice uni or open your eyes to a different place you hadn’t considered. 

You’ll also get to see whether the facilities, accommodation and social scene match what you’re looking for. It’s your chance to explore the emotional connection – the “Could I see myself here?” feeling that really matters.

How to Prepare in Advance

Preparation is key to getting the most out of your visit. 

Start by booking your place on the open day via the university website, especially if attendance numbers are limited. Once booked, plan your travel well ahead of time. Whether you’re hopping on a train or driving, be sure to give yourself enough time to arrive early and settle in.

Bring a notepad or use your phone to jot down key takeaways as you go. It may sound unnecessary at first, but after visiting a few different places, the details can blur together. Also, wear comfortable clothing and shoes – you’ll be doing a lot of walking, and campuses can be bigger than they first appear.

It’s also worth doing a little research on the university beforehand. 

Look up your course, check what sessions are available on the day, and plan out your schedule. Make time to attend any subject-specific talks and be sure to leave some time for exploring the wider campus at your own pace.

Knowing What Matters to You

Before you step onto any campus, take a moment to consider what’s important to you personally. 

Are you after a hands-on course with regular contact hours? Do you want to be in the heart of a busy city, or would you prefer somewhere quieter and more campus-based? Is the nightlife, student support, or cost of living more important to your overall experience?

Having a mental checklist of your preferences can really help you stay focused on what matters. It’s easy to be swept away by impressive libraries and shiny new lecture halls, but it’s more important to assess whether the university meets your needs and values. 

You’ll be living and studying there for at least three years, so it’s got to feel right on more than one level.

Talking to the Right People

One of the best parts of an open day is the chance to speak with a wide range of people – from lecturers and current students to accommodation officers and student support staff. Each of these individuals has a different perspective and insight to share.

Don’t be shy about striking up conversations. Ask students about their real experiences – what surprised them, what they love, and what they’d change. 

Chat with lecturers about course content, how you’ll be assessed, and what support is available during studies. The answers you receive can help you spot differences between universities and gain a realistic understanding of what to expect.

It’s often the casual, honest conversations with students that leave the biggest impact. They’ve been in your shoes and can give you the kind of genuine advice that doesn’t appear in official university brochures.

Exploring the Campus Properly

While guided tours are a great way to see the highlights, it’s also worth exploring off the beaten track. 

Take time to see where students actually spend their days. Pop into study spaces, cafes, libraries and outdoor areas. If you can, visit accommodation blocks and picture yourself living there – could you imagine calling that room or flat your home?

Step outside the university bubble too. Walk to the nearby shops, check out the local transport links and look around the surrounding town or city. These things all add up to your student experience. Is there a nice park nearby? Is the area well-lit and safe? Is there a good mix of shops, food spots, and fun hangouts?

The best way to assess a university isn’t just by what it shows you, but by what you notice for yourself.

Reflecting After the Visit

After each open day, take a few minutes to reflect on your experience. 

Think about what stood out, how it made you feel, and whether the university met – or exceeded – your expectations. Capture those thoughts quickly, while everything’s still fresh.

You might want to keep a little journal or voice note after each visit to help compare later. It can be especially helpful if you’re visiting several universities in a short time. 

Keeping your notes focused on your emotions and observations will help you make a confident and informed decision when it’s time to submit your UCAS choices.

Final Thoughts

University open days are a fantastic way to take control of your future. 

They’re your opportunity to explore, ask, experience and evaluate – and most importantly, to feel out whether a place is right for you. Be curious, trust your instincts, and don’t be afraid to ask questions.

Remember, this is your journey. The right university isn’t necessarily the one with the highest ranking or the biggest reputation – it’s the one where you feel comfortable, inspired and ready to grow. 

So go in with an open mind, take your time, and make the most of this exciting stage in your life.