How to make the most of uni open days

Planning to visit a few uni open days?

Whether they're in-person or online, you might miss out on some great opportunities on the day unless you do some prep beforehand.

But don’t add this to your pile of things to stress about! We’ve compiled a quick and easy checklist of everything you need to know to make the most of open day events.

young woman eating fairyfloss at open day

On-campus or online, Open Days are are a great way to have fun and get all the essential information you need.

Before you go

Make a list of courses or study areas you're interested in.
Check the uni open day website for information sessions, tours and events in your areas of interest.
If you need to register, book in ASAP so you don’t miss out.
Download any open day or uni app and check the campus maps to plan your route around the event.
Develop your personal timetable for the day, using a planning app if available. VU Open Day website lets you create a personalised planner for the day so you don’t miss a thing.
Prepare a list of questions for teachers, students and admissions staff who'll be there on the day (we’ve suggested some below...).

group of students and teacher examining anatomy model

Shortlist information sessions according to your areas of interest.

On the day

In-person or online, it always helps to be prepared to make the most of a great Open Day!

1. Pack smart

For in-person events. make sure you have the following with you on the day:

your phone, with any uni or open day apps
maps
a pen
details of events you plan to attend
a carry bag for papers, course guides and brochures
an umbrella (you live in Melbourne, and most open days take place during winter).

2. Get the lowdown from those in the know

Open Day is a perfect setting to pick the brains of the uni teachers, students and industry contacts.

Students can share their experience, while the lecturer will know all about getting in, course requirements and course structure.

Industry connections of the university can be stepping stones to your dream career, so find out how they can connect you with opportunities in their industry. At VU Open Day, a special Industry Hub area will help you find out everything in one place.

Things to ask students

What are some of the best things about studying here?
What do you wish you’d known before you started studying?
Can you tell me about what support is available if I struggle a bit?
Tell me about your favourite/least favourite subjects, and why you like them?

Things to ask teachers

How many hours in class or labs are there?
How long is the course?
How many hours of study and reading outside class is required?
How is the course assessed?
Is there a double degree option?

Things to ask industry reps

Do you offer work placements or internship programs for students?
Which courses here provide suitable graduates for your organisation?
What is the predicted growth in this industry over the next 3 to 5 years?
How can I make myself stand-out for employment in this field through non-uni achievements (like coaching, volunteering or community work)?

3. Tackle the tough questions

On Open Day, you can meet course and careers advisers and staff from student administration and admissions for all the important information about getting into a course.

Make sure you find out about:

admission criteria, including auditions, interviews or portfolios
prerequisite VCE subjects
the number of places available
the likelihood of second-round offers
scholarships you may be eligible for.

Also ask about alternative entry schemes and opportunities to transfer between courses. For example, VU Guaranteed is an early-entry offer scheme for partner schools. VU also has numerous pathways between TAFE and higher-education courses.

4. Explore the campus, surrounds – and opportunities abroad

In-person Open Days are a great opportunity to check out student libraries and computer labs, campus employment, leadership opportunities, student clubs and social events.

Consider things like accessibility by public transport or car, study assistance offerings and accessibility services support. And let’s not forget the fun stuff like the cafes, bars, local shopping and the exciting happenings in the surrounding areas.

Many universities let you take a subject, semester or whole year of your course overseas at an exchange institution – so don’t miss the chance to find out about exciting study abroad destinations on Open Day too.