If you’re planning to go to a university open day, but have no idea what to ask, we’ve got you covered. It might feel nerve-wracking to ask people questions, but you’ll get more out of your open day visit and uncover more about what it’s really like to study there if you do. From good questions to ask about your course, to the best questions to ask current students, write these down to make the most of your visit.
- Questions to ask about your course or subject
- Questions to ask current students
- Questions to ask about Accommodation
- Questions to ask about student life
What to ask about the courses or subjects you’re interested in
The academics for each course and faculty will be leading talks about their subject areas on the day. They’ll always offer you the chance to ask questions at the end and they’ll be more than happy for you to grab them after if you don’t want to put your hand up in front of everyone else.
- Can you give examples of career paths that recent graduates from this course have taken?
- Can you describe the balance between lectures, seminars, and practical work?
- How many contact hours will I have in a normal week? (This means scheduled teaching; lectures, seminars, workshops etc.)
- What kind of support is available for students who might struggle with the coursework?
- Are there opportunities for internships, placements, or industry projects as part of the course and how is this organised?
- How is the course assessed (e.g., exams, coursework, projects)?
- What are the opportunities for studying or working abroad?
- How does the course integrate the latest developments and technologies in the field?
In the meantime, you might find some of the answers you’re looking for on our subject pages. Check out the course in depth sections for any courses you're considering to find out more about what you'll cover and how you'll be taught.
Questions to ask current BCU students
You can’t miss our Student Ambassadors at an Open Day. You’ll find them wearing navy and pink I AM BCU t-shirts and hoodies on every campus. They’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have as well as point you in the right direction. They'll also be leading accommodation tours – it’s a perfect opportunity to grill them on what it’s really like to be a student at BCU.
- What do you enjoy most about studying at BCU and what do you find most challenging?
- How approachable and supportive are the lecturers and academic staff?
- What is your workload like and how do you manage your time?
- Can you describe your social life and what the community is like at BCU?
- What advice would you give to someone considering studying your course?
- How do you find the accommodation options and living costs in Birmingham?
- What are the opportunities for part-time work like?
- Can you describe what it’s like to live in Birmingham?
Being a Student Ambassador is just one of the part-time jobs you could get while you're studying. If you want to speak to a current student before visiting an open day, head over to the Student Room.
Questions to ask about student accommodation
If you're thinking about living in student accommodation at BCU you can book a tour on the day. Tours will run from our City Centre and City South campuses, allowing you to see what it might be like to live here. You'll also be able to ask staff and students questions about what it's like to live in Birmingham and how much it might cost.
- Can you explain the different types of accommodation available at BCU?
- Which student accommodation is closest to the campus I’ll be studying at? (Let them know the courses you’re considering)
- What sort of things will I need to bring with me to university?
- What’s the difference between the halls of residence options?
- What is the cheapest accommodation option?
- How many people share a flat?
- When do I have to apply to accommodation?
- What’s the best way to travel between [name of accommodation] and [name of campus].
- Are there any payments before I move in?
When planning your questions it’s also important to consider what things matter the most to you. Is the price the most important thing, having your own bathroom, an on-site gym, or maybe even having a studio flat? Our accommodation pages will help to answer any questions you may have in advance and also have a comprehensive frequently asked questions page.
Questions to ask the Students’ Union
BCU Students’ Union (SU) are here to represent your voice at BCU, they’re an independent charity that works to improve your life as a student and make sure you have the best possible time. They’ll be doing talks throughout the day about student life and will also have staff available in Millennium Point for you to ask your questions.
- What is the cost of living in Birmingham like?
- What types of clubs, societies and sports are available through the Students’ Union?
- Are there any events aimed at helping new students settle in?
- How easy is it to find part-time work?
- What kind of support and services does the SU provide?
- How can students get involved with the SU and its activities?
- How can students access advice and support for academic or personal issues through the SU?
Find out more about the SU including events and activities they’re running on their website.