The Class of 2026 earned acceptances to phenomenal schools such as Harvard, Princeton, Cambridge, Columbia, Johns Hopkins, Duke, Georgetown, Imperial College of London, and UCL. These remarkable outcomes reflect the hard work of our students and the dedication of the LAS University Advising team, which guides and supports students throughout every step of the application process.

Our advising approach is thorough, thoughtful, and highly personalized, helping students identify what criteria will make a school the right personal and academic fit—one of the most crucial aspects of choosing a university. A key part of this process is the campus visit. While researching schools online is a convenient starting point, it simply cannot replicate the experience of being there in person. Walking the campus, taking in the atmosphere, and picturing yourself living and studying there for the next four years offers something no website can. We strongly encourage students to visit universities they are considering, and summer is an ideal time to do so.

Most colleges and universities offer campus tours and information sessions (known as "Open Days" at European universities) for prospective students. Tours are typically led by current students who walk visitors through the facilities and share insights into academic life, campus culture, and student experience. These are often paired with information sessions run by admissions staff, where families can learn about entry requirements, academic programs, and campus offerings and ask all the questions they have.

Some institutions also host larger open house events in the fall, giving prospective students a deeper look at campus life and the chance to connect with current students, faculty, and administrators. Certain universities go further, offering events tailored to specific academic interests or athletic programs, and may even arrange interviews with admissions representatives, class visits, or overnight stays with current students. It's worth contacting universities directly to find out what they offer and plan visits accordingly. If several schools of interest are located near one another, consider visiting them in a single trip.

Beyond the campus itself, a visit allows students to explore the surrounding area—assessing off-campus life, transportation options, and nearby internship or community engagement opportunities. The insights students and parents gather firsthand are also invaluable when it comes to writing personal statements and college essays.

In short, visiting a university gives prospective applicants direct, personal access to admissions counselors, staff, and faculty. That kind of one-on-one interaction—covering everything from academics and career services to financial aid and campus life—can make a real difference in helping students decide where they want to spend the next several years of their lives.

If you have any questions about university visits, please contact the LAS University Advising team at universityadvising@las.ch.