Why You Should Attend a College Fair with Tips on How to Get the Most from One

ByAimee Heller
An illustration of college advisor Miami from International College Counselors offers college fair tips for upcoming college fairs.

Choosing the right college is one of the most significant decisions a student will make. With so many options available, the process can feel overwhelming. That’s where college fairs come in. These events, whether in-person or virtual, offer a convenient way for students and parents to efficiently gather valuable information from multiple colleges, universities, and military services in one day and one place. Students and families can explore schools, connect with admissions representatives, and gather the information needed to make informed decisions about higher education. Use our valuable college fair tips.

What Are College Fairs?

College fairs are events where students can meet representatives from colleges and universities across the country—and sometimes the world. These fairs include a table for each individual school, staffed by a representative of that school, so that prospective families can ask questions directly. Most often, the representative will be an admission counselor; sometimes, it will be an alumna or alumnus. At larger fairs, presenters will offer information sessions on key topics like financial aid and applications. Virtual fairs replicate much of the same experience, allowing students to attend from anywhere via phone or computer.

Why Attend College Fairs?

Here are some of the key reasons students should attend college fairs:

  • Explore a Variety of Colleges in One Place

College fairs bring together representatives from dozens, if not hundreds, of schools. This allows students to explore a wide range of options—from large public universities to small liberal arts colleges—all in one setting. It’s also a chance to discover schools you may not have previously considered.

  • Get Your Questions Answered

Speaking directly with admissions representatives is one of the most significant advantages of a college fair. You can ask specific questions about academic programs, campus life, application requirements, scholarships, and more. This personalized interaction can provide clarity and help you evaluate whether a school is a good fit for your goals.

  • Build Personal Connections

Meeting admissions representatives at a college fair is an excellent way to make a positive impression. These representatives may remember you when reviewing your application, and showing genuine interest in their school can demonstrate your enthusiasm and initiative. Remember to introduce yourself with a smile before asking your questions, and be sure to scan your barcode at their table. This will show the college your “demonstrated interest.”

  • Learn About Admissions Trends

Larger college fairs often include sessions on admissions topics such as essay writing, financial aid, test-optional policies, and other trends. Staying informed about these changes can give you an edge when applying to competitive programs.

  • Discover Scholarships and Financial Aid Opportunities

Many college fairs promote financial aid and scholarship opportunities, including those specifically for prospective students who attend the event. You may learn about merit-based scholarships, institutional grants, or state-specific programs that could make college more affordable.

Attend an In-Person Fair

Attending a college fair in person provides a unique experience that virtual events may not fully replicate. Walking through the event, collecting brochures, and engaging in face-to-face conversations allows students to immerse themselves in the college exploration process. The personal connections made during these interactions can leave a lasting impression and provide insights you might not get online.

The National Association of College Admission Counseling (NACAC) will be hosting college fairs this spring in various cities from February 16 through June 7. Each event will feature more than 600 colleges and universities. See the full schedule and register now at https://www.nacacattend.org/fairs.

Additional opportunities include:

    • National STEM Fairs in St. Louis and Denver (see calendar link above)

    • Colleges That Change Lives (CTCL): Starting in March, CTCL member schools – all liberal arts colleges and all “hidden gems,” will host college fairs where students and families can connect directly with admission officers from those member schools.

    • National Portfolio Day: Student visual artists and designers can meet with representatives from NASAD-accredited colleges face-to-face, present their portfolios,  and receive immediate feedback. These events also create opportunities to discuss programs, network and build personal connections with admissions representatives, and explore career paths.

    • International Thespian Festival: This one-day event offers over 200 workshops in 30 categories taught by high school teachers, college professors, and theater professionals. There are also opportunities to meet representatives from more than 50 colleges and universities. Plus, students can participate in college auditions and interview with representatives. This year, the festival will be held at Indiana University Bloomington on June 22-27.

    • Music Admissions Roundtable (MAR): College fairs hosted by MAR member institutions bring together music admissions and enrollment professionals from over 60 colleges and universities. With institutions from across the U.S. and around the globe participating, these events offer prospective students a valuable opportunity to connect directly with college representatives, gain insights into music programs, and explore potential academic paths.

Attend a Virtual College Fair

Virtual college fairs let students explore hundreds of colleges from their phone or computer. These fairs offer live college information sessions, one-on-one meetings with admissions representatives, and chances to ask questions directly. They aim to replicate much of the in-person experience while allowing students and families to participate from anywhere.

The National Association of College Admission Counseling (NACAC) is hosting three virtual college fairs this spring on February 16, March 23, and April 27. Each event features over 600 colleges and universities, offering families the chance to attend as often as they like. Register now at https://www.nacacattend.org/fairs.

Colleges That Change Lives (CTCL) and National Portfolio Day also offer virtual events. 

Tips for Making the Most of a College Fair

    • Do Your Research: Before attending, look up the colleges that will be present and create a list of those you want to visit.

    • Prepare Questions: Have a few specific questions ready about programs, campus life, or admissions requirements. For example, you can ask, “Tell me about your XYZ program,” or “What makes your campus special?”

    • Take Notes: Write down key information and impressions about each school you explore.

    • Be Open-Minded: Use the fair to discover schools you may not have considered before.

    • Follow Up: Take the business card of the representative, and, after the event, email them to thank them for their time and ask any follow-up questions.

    • After the fair, do some serious research of the colleges you’re considering. Visit their websites, especially of the department you’re considering majoring in, and, if possible, schedule a campus visit. If the college made a positive impression at the fair, it might be the perfect time to experience it in person.

    • Bring a bag or backpack to hold all the print material you’ll be collecting.

    • Most fairs last 3-4 hours. Consider arriving a bit after start time and staying until the end. Most people are eager to arrive at the start time, but fade over the first couple of hours. With fewer attendees, the last hour can be more manageable for you.

INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE COUNSELORS

No matter where your family is in the college admissions process, International College Counselors can help you with every aspect, including building and honing the college list, fine-tuning college applications, and writing admission essays. The expert team at International College Counselors includes former college admission officers, high school directors and counselors, and writing professionals with a combined 250+ years of experience, helping students and families successfully navigate the college application journey. For personalized guidance, contact International College Counselors at 954-414-9986 or email Marlene at [email protected].