Visiting programs before acceptance

[hannahp15]

Hi! Everyone here seems so knowledgeable about the dos and dont's of applying so I wanted to get some opinions. I was thinking about planning a visit to a school that is out of my state before I am even accepted. This is my first choice school and I thought maybe if they met me it would help my chances during the admissions process. But, now I'm thinking that this might be a waste of money and I should wait to spend money to visit schools I'm actually accepted to. Any thoughts?

[koalalover1]

If it is your number one school, I don't see how it could be a waste of money. If you've never seen the campus before, it would help a lot! I visited one of my potential grad schools this summer, and I am so glad I did! I was on the fence about applying, and now it's in my top three! When you visit, you'll see a lot more than you expect! 

But on the same token, if you know your heart is set on it, and visiting won't make too much of a difference, you can always change your mind. Just know that no matter what, you'll get something positive out of whatever you decide! Good luck! 

[YaketyYak]

I have to agree with koalalover1. I went and visited a few different campuses. It enabled me to see whether or not a program was going to be a good fit and if I would be a good fit for the program. I was also able to become more than an application and I think it can help your chances if you are good at in-person situations. The school that was my top choice pre-visit became my last choice post-visit and the school that was my last choice became my top choice! It made decisions so much easier to make in regards to acceptances and now I'm set to start the spring semester at my (new) top choice and I'm confident in my decision; all because of visiting! I say go for it!

[newgrad819]

I think visiting a program is probably one of the smartest things you can do when applying, not only does it gives you a feel of the program but it helps put a face with the application. At least when deciding they can say they know who you are and its extra brownie points IMO. As far as money, If you really like this program I would say take a chance but If money is too much of an issue I would just hope for the best. Good luck