Not sure what to expect when you go to a university open day? We run through all the activities you might encounter...
Updated: 22 Sept 2025
Deciding which university is the right one can be hard. You can get lots of information by looking online or reading a prospectus, but open days are the best way to get a real feel for what a uni will be like to attend. They’re an opportunity to visit a campus in person, tour the facilities and chat with current students and staff. You’ll come away with a bit more clarity if you’re finding it tricky to choose which uni or course you want to apply for.
Keep reading to find out what’s available during a university open day. If you want to learn more, what to bring with you and what questions to ask, check out our guide on everything you need to know about open days.
Touring a uni is one of the best ways to get a real feel for what you can expect as a student there. You’ll see where you’ll attend lectures and seminars, facilities like the library and subject-specific areas, as well as social spaces like the canteen or Students’ Union. Student guides and ambassadors will be available to show you around and answer any questions you might have.
Similarly, you may get the opportunity to tour accommodation. It’s likely this will be your first time living away from home and you might be staying in university halls for at least your first year of study, so a tour can be really useful.
Unis often have different accommodation options to pick from, such as catered or self-catered, ensuite or a shared bathroom, a studio flat or shared apartment. Seeing these options in person will help you decide which is right for you.
Whether you’ve decided on the subject you’re going to take, or are still considering your options, attending a subject talk is a great way to find out what a particular course is all about.
You’ll discover what modules are offered, how much independent research is expected, what the job prospects are after graduating and how much contact time you’ll get with tutors. All of these things will help you choose which course, and uni, fits what you’re looking for.
Some unis will host taster sessions in popular subjects to allow students to not only experience what the subject has to offer, but to show them how university lessons can different from lessons in sixth form. They're usually super interesting, so even if there isn't a session for a subject you;re interested in, we'd recommend going to one anyway for the experience.
Just as important as the subject lecturers are the actual campus facilities that will support your studies. While on the open day you’ll be able to check out everything the uni has to offer, such as lecture theatres, labs, computer rooms, creative studios, teaching rooms and any other subject specific equipment.
The library is an important place to explore too, especially your department library or the section dedicated to your chosen subject.
Many prospective students opt to bring along a family member. It’s always a good idea, as they can be a great sounding board and can also take note of information you might not remember. Many open days also give Parent Talks which cover things like finances and student loans. This is valuable information when it comes to applying for loans and deciding how much extra support you might need.
Information desks
Often, there will be an area where you can chat one-on-one with key staff working in different areas of the university. Whether you’ve got questions around admissions, fees, funding advice, global opportunities or the Students’ Union, there’ll be someone on hand to talk to.
A chance to explore the local area
This won’t be facilitated by the uni, but if you have time, it’s worth looking at the surrounding area. Being a student isn’t just about studying after all!
Maybe you’re hoping for somewhere buzzing and cosmopolitan, or looking for a more tranquil environment close to nature. This is the place you might be living for the next few years, so now is a great time to see if you like it. It’s also a good idea to find out what the public transport system is like and how far away from campus you’ll be living. Now you’ve got an idea of what to expect, take a look at upcoming open days and book your place.