Open House Events

Colleges typically offer Open House events 3-4 times per year (some more frequently). If you are planning a college visit, an open house event is a great way to do it. Colleges really roll out the red carpet for events like this, and there are often opportunities to experience the campus/college in more depth than is available through a campus tour and information session. Open House events are usually half-day or full-day events with lots of offerings (in contrast to campus tour and info sessions which typically last about 2 hours). Also, many Open House events are offered on weekends when travel may be more convenient. Contact admissions or search the admissions website for information on Open House events at colleges of interest. A few examples are below. 

UNC Charlotte Open House in Charlotte, NC

Showcase Saturdays at Furman University in Greenville, SC

Dawg Days at Gardner-Webb University in Boiling Springs, NC

Overnight Visits

Many colleges offer some type of overnight visit where prospective or admitted students can experience what it is like to be on campus, often by staying in a dorm with a student. This is a great way to really get a taste of what campus life is like. Just a few examples are listed below. Students should contact admissions at any colleges they are interested in visiting to inquire about overnight visits. More info on overnight visits can be found on the National Association for College Admissions website.

Overnight Visit to UNC-Asheville in Asheville, NC

Overnight at NGU - Overnight Stay at North Greenville University in Tigerville, SC

Inside the Gates - Overnight Experience at The Citadel (military college) in Charleston, SC

Fly-In Programs

Some colleges offer "fly-in" programs for prospective students. These typically require an application (deadlines are usually in spring of junior year or summer before senior year). Sometimes there are specific criteria, such as first generation college students (students whose parents have not graduated from a 4-year university), students from low income families, or students from underrepresented groups (such as rural communities like Cleveland County). For fly-in visits, transportation costs are fully covered by the university. More info on Fly-In Programs can be found on the Coalition for College website. A few examples are listed below.

Access Davidson - Fly-In Program at Davidson College in Davidson, NC

PATH Program - Fly-In Program at Washington & Lee University in Lexington, VA

Voices of Tufts - Fly-In Program at Tufts University in Boston, MA

Virtual College Fairs

The National Association for College Admissions Counseling offers college fairs throughout the year. Many of these are virtual and are a great way to explore colleges from the comfort of your own home!

https://www.nacacnet.org/nacac-college-fairs/