What’s it like going to a university Open Day?

Published on 21 Feb 2025

4:16 min estimated read time

by Simon Clark

Disclaimer: The content on this blog is the opinion of the author and it was correct at the time of writing

Interested in studying at university? Great! The best way to get a taste of campus life and get answers to all those burning questions is to check out the university’s open day. It’s a chance to see the campus, ask questions, meet students and staff, and generally get a feel for what it’s like being a student.

There’s a bit of prep you can do before you get there. Work out how you’ll get there (and if there’s parking, for anyone who wants to drive), the food options available on the day, and get familiar with the schedule so you don’t miss out. UEL has open day FAQ pages with all the key details you’ll need.

When you arrive

Most universities will offer a registration desk where you can collect information packs, campus maps, and event schedules for the day. There’ll normally be student ambassadors to welcome you and help point you in the right direction. If you’re hoping to go to specific talks or workshops, make a note of the timings and familiarise yourself with the map.

Take a guided campus tour

One of the highlights of a UK university open day is the campus tour. These tours are usually led by current students, so they provide a great opportunity to see the campus from a student’s perspective. You’ll visit lecture halls, libraries, social spaces, and student accommodation. Some universities even offer tours of specialised facilities like science labs, performance spaces, and art studios. It's a chance to see the facilities up close and imagine yourself in the environment.

As you walk around the campus, you'll also get a sense of the vibe of the place. Some universities have modern, high-tech facilities, while others may offer a more historic atmosphere. Either way, the tours are a chance to discover how well-equipped the university is to support your academic and personal growth – and, of course, imagine yourself there one day soon.

Talks and activities

Most open days feature a series of talks and information sessions aimed at giving you a clearer picture of what to expect. These talks often cover a range of topics, such as:

Admissions and entry requirements: Learn about the application process, including the UCAS system (for undergraduates), and get insights into what makes a strong application.
Courses: Academics from various departments present detailed overviews of their courses. You can ask questions about specific modules, career outcomes, and any opportunities for hands-on learning.
Student life: These sessions give you insight into life beyond academics. You'll hear from current students about clubs, societies, and activities that make campus life so vibrant. Learning about the Student Union is a good idea – they’re often the heart of university social life.
Support services: Universities like UEL offer a huge range of services to students, such as mental health and well-being support, disability services, career counselling, and academic tutoring.

Meet current students and academics

Meeting current students and academic staff might be the highlight of a university open day. It’s how you can get a real idea of what it’s like to live and study at university.

Meeting staff – normally academics, but sometimes other members of staff who work at the university - is equally important. You'll have the chance to ask about course content, research opportunities, and the teaching style of the department. It's a good time to gauge whether the academic environment aligns with your interests and learning preferences.

Check out the accommodation

Open days, like the ones at UEL, feature tours of the university’s student accommodation options. Universities often have a range of housing styles, with different prices, and this is your chance to see the options available to you. The accommodation tours typically give a clear view of room sizes, shared facilities, and the surrounding area. These aren’t showrooms – they’re real students’ bedrooms and kitchens, so don’t get too nosy!

Get a feel for the place

University campuses are busy, fast-changing places, full of energy and creativity. Whether you’re walking through a quiet library or sitting in on an academic talk, you’ll get a sense of how the university fosters community, creativity, and engagement. You can learn about different student societies, clubs, and local businesses, as well as the cafes and bars available. Ask yourself – can you imagine being there every day? Does it feel exciting and somewhere you’ll be happy to spend the next few years?

Be excited – and have fun!

Going to an open day or open evening gives you a taste of what university life is like. It allows you to get a real sense of what studying and living at UEL means, with honest opinions from fellow students.

From guided tours to personal talks with students and staff, these open days offer a deep dive into the academic, social, and cultural life at the university. It’s a chance to make informed decisions and begin to envision your future as a student at that university. See you there!

Come to a UEL open day and explore our university.