Best questions to ask on Open Day

Open Day is the perfect opportunity to find out everything you want to know about university. But if you’ve never been to one before, it can be hard to know where to start.

We checked in with an Open Day expert, ACU’s National Future Students Manager Simone Joachim, to find out some of the best questions to ask on the day.

“Open Day is a fantastic event – there is so much on offer. But sometimes I think this can be overwhelming for visitors – knowing where to start,” said Simone.

“At our Open Days, there are lots of different people to talk to – and they are all happy to help. You can chat to current students, course experts, support staff and admissions experts.”

Here are some questions from Simone to get you started.

Questions to ask course experts

Course experts are academics, course coordinators and lecturers. Basically, they know the details about each course on offer.

Ask them:

  • What does the course cover?
  • What’s the split between lectures, tutorials and self-directed study?
  • What size are tutorial groups?
  • How does the subject at ACU compare with the way it is taught at other unis?
  • What links does the faculty have with employers?
  • Do you build employability skills into the curriculum?
  • Are there opportunities for work experience and placements?
  • How long will I spend on campus? How long will I spend online?
  • Is study abroad an option and would it count towards the degree?
  • What kind of jobs do graduates get?

Questions to ask support staff

Support staff facilitate a range of great services to help you achieve your study and career goals.

Ask them:

  • What is on offer during Orientation?
  • Who can help me if I’m struggling with my studies?
  • Can someone help me improve my study skills when I start uni?
  • Is there anyone who I can talk to if I’m feeling overwhelmed by personal or uni issues?
  • What if I have a disability or I’m a carer? Is there any support for me?
  • Do you have any programs or services for veterans?
  • Can you tell me about student accommodation options at this campus?
  • Are there any services that can help me with developing my career or finding work?
  • I’m an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander student – are there any services available for me?

Questions to ask admissions and pathway staff

Admissions and pathway staff know all the ins and outs of applying to uni. They are the people who actually process applications, so they’ll be able to give you some great tips.

Ask them:

  • What scholarships are on offer?
  • Can I get any help with my fees and university costs?
  • Can you tell me about admission pathways to my course, for example adjustment factors or entry programs?
  • Can you tell me what options I have if I don’t meet the entry requirements?
  • How do I apply to my course and what are the deadlines?
  • Do you have any advice for preparing my application?

Questions to ask current students

Current students know all about life at university, and they’ll be able to answer questions about the university experience from a personal perspective.

Ask them:

  • How do you find studying at this university?
  • What are the best things about being a university student?
  • What are the biggest challenges about being a university student?
  • How is university different from high school?
  • What are your tips for fitting work around study?
  • Do you have any advice for me?
  • What clubs and societies are available at ACU?

Remember, you can ask anything you like at Open Day – there are no wrong questions. So come along and explore your study options.