Exploring Northwestern University: A Guide to Campus Tours and Visits
Northwestern University offers a variety of campus visit options designed to provide prospective students and their families with a comprehensive look at the university's facilities, academic opportunities, and student life. Whether you prefer a guided tour, a self-guided exploration, or a virtual experience, Northwestern has something to offer everyone.
On-Campus Visits
Northwestern provides several avenues for experiencing its campus firsthand. These include guided campus tours, academic overviews, and self-guided campus tours.
Guided Campus Tours
The university's guided tours employ a unique "choose your own adventure" format. Visitors can select a tour guide who shares a common interest or point of connection. These tours, led by current students, offer a 30-40 minute walking tour of the campus, allowing participants to ask questions throughout the experience. Following each general tour, attendees have the option to learn more about Northwestern’s holistic admission review process and the university’s affordability commitments. This session provides an overview of the application and financial aid processes, answering questions about Northwestern and the college search. Availability of sessions varies seasonally, so checking the registration calendar to confirm current schedules is recommended. Advance registration is required for school-specific programs.
Self-Guided Campus Tours
For those unable to join a guided tour or who prefer to explore at their own pace, Northwestern offers a self-guided tour. Visitors can head over to the Segal Visitors Center vestibule, which is open 24 hours a day, to register for a self-guided visit and download a copy of the tour. The self-guided tour provides a thorough introduction to campus facilities, academic opportunities, and student life.
Virtual Visit Options
For those unable to visit the campus in person, Northwestern offers various virtual visit options. These online events and campus tours provide an alternative way to engage and connect with the university. Past virtual information sessions are available on Northwestern's YouTube channel.
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Information Sessions
Information sessions are available for prospective students to meet with admission directors and current students. These sessions, which last approximately one hour, feature real-time Q&A opportunities. Additionally, prospective students can meet with representatives from one of Northwestern's six undergraduate schools to find information targeted to their potential area of study.
Special Programs and Events
Northwestern hosts a variety of special programs and events throughout the year designed to provide prospective students with unique insights into the university experience.
Exploring Northwestern
Exploring Northwestern is a program where a panel of current first-generation college students talk candidly about their Northwestern experience. They answer students’ questions about how they navigated the admissions process and share how they adjusted to campus and student life. Attendees also receive an overview of the admission and financial aid process, attend an essay writing workshop, enjoy lunch on campus, and go on a campus tour.
START-UP
START-UP is a program where participants explore cutting-edge technologies and strategies for building a business or product while experiencing the best of Evanston and the neighboring hub of Chicago.
Alumni Perspectives on Community, Belonging, and Careers
The Alumni Admission Council’s Affinity & Special Interest Groups share stories about campus experiences and insights on the exciting paths Wildcats pursue after graduation.
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Group Visits
High schools and community-based organizations wishing to bring a group of 10 or more high school students to campus can attend a large group campus visit. Based on the group’s schedule and interests, they can take a student-led or self-guided campus tour and connect with current students and admission staff to learn more about Northwestern.
Connecting with Current Students and Alumni
Prospective students can connect with current students and alumni to hear their perspectives on the Northwestern experience. The university offers opportunities to meet Wildcat Ambassadors and hear stories about campus experiences and insights on career paths after graduation.
Exploring History, Culture, and Community
General campus tours (both guided and self-guided) provide a thorough introduction to campus facilities, academic opportunities, and student life. For a deeper look at Northwestern’s history and communities, visitors can explore campus on their own with the help of audio tours.
Tailoring Your Visit
Northwestern encourages prospective students to tailor their on-campus visit to match their interests. This includes touring campus, sitting in on a class, or even shadowing a current student for the day.
Practical Information
All times for events are listed in Central Time, and events are posted as they are scheduled, generally 4-6 weeks in advance. If you are interested in hearing from current Northwestern students, you are encouraged to register for student events.
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