Visiting UK Universities: When, Why, and What If You Can’t?
This guide explores the pros and cons of visiting before or after applying, and offers advice on the best (and worst) times of year to plan your trip.
In an ideal world, US students and families would have the time, budget, and flexibility to visit UK universities both before and after applying. But for many, that’s simply not realistic—and the good news is, it’s not essential. You won’t be at a disadvantage if you don’t visit before submitting your application, as UK universities do not consider campus visits or demonstrated interest when making admissions decisions. In fact, there can be real advantages to waiting until after you’ve received offers to plan your visit.
There’s no bad time to visit UK universities—but planning is key. Visiting before or after applying each has pros and cons, and timing your trip well can make all the difference in getting a true feel for campus life.
Is it Essential to Visit Before I Apply?
Not really. While visiting can help students feel more confident in their choices, it’s not a requirement. Unlike many U.S. colleges, UK universities make admissions decisions based solely on academic qualifications and the strength of the application—not whether a student has visited. However, students can still demonstrate interest by signing up for information on university websites and attending virtual events or presentations. Ideally, they should use the same email address they’ll use when submitting their application.
Benefits of Visiting Before You Apply
If time and budget allow, visiting UK universities before applying can give you a clearer sense of what you’re looking for. Seeing different campuses and cities in person can help you narrow down your list and make more confident application choices. You might discover a university or degree you hadn’t previously considered—or rule out one that looked perfect on paper but didn’t feel like the right fit in real life. Early visits can also give you valuable insight into how UK universities differ from US colleges in terms of structure, accommodation, and student life.
Benefits of Waiting Until After You Get Offers
If you only have one opportunity to visit the UK, waiting until after you’ve received offers can actually be more strategic. At this point, your trip will be focused on a smaller number of universities you already know are realistic options. That makes the visit more meaningful—and practical.
You’ll have fewer universities to visit, which means you can spend more time at each one, talk to students, explore the local area, and truly imagine yourself there. It also avoids the disappointment of falling in love with a university that doesn’t end up making you an offer.
Best Times of Year to Visit UK Universities
There’s never a bad time to visit, but (IMHO), some times of year definitely work better than others for U.S. students and families.
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As Thanksgiving is not a holiday in the UK, this can be a great time to visit. The academic year is well underway and some universities hold autumn Open Days—ideal for seniors finalizing their list.
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The bleak midwinter may seem a counterintuitive time to visit but actually UK universities will be in full swing after the winter break. While daylight hours are short, UK winters are generally mild thanks to the maritime climate—so think Pacific Northwest winter rather than Northeast snowstorm—making it ‘usually’ a perfectly manageable and worthwhile time to tour.
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UK university campuses will be active and buzzing during February, as few have a formal break at this time (although St Andrews did this year). February break is also a smart time for U.S. upperclassmen to visit—midterms are likely done, and you’ll have a breather before AP prep begins. For seniors, chances are you’ll have received some UK university offers by this time, making it easier to focus your trip on the universities you’re most seriously considering.
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Early summer is peak UK university Open Day season, when universities host large-scale events with tours, talks, and Q&As. While these events are not essential for U.S. students—as UK universities allow you to arrange private visits at any time—it’s always a bonus to visit when campuses are lively, full of prospective students your age, and the university is pulling out all the stops to make a great impression.
Note: While summer is a fantastic time to visit the UK and Europe as a tourist, keep in mind that many universities will feel quieter, as most undergraduate students are away for the break.
Less Optimal Times to Visit (and Why)
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The UK is beautiful this time of the year but campuses can be very quiet during summer break, with fewer students and limited activities.
Larger universities, such as those in London, may still have some buzz and feel less quiet due to summer school students.
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UK universities close for the holidays, typically starting at least a few days to a week before Christmas and remaining shut until after New Year’s Day—often reopening around the 3rd, 4th, or 5th of January, depending on how the bank holidays fall. During this period, access to campuses, tours, and facilities is extremely limited.
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Easter is a major holiday in the UK. Students are typically on break during the weeks surrounding Easter, and universities will be completely closed over the four-day Easter weekend (Good Friday through Easter Monday). Campuses are very quiet during this time, and arranging tours can be difficult.
The duration and timing of Spring break for UK universities varies so be sure to check the website of those you want to visit as it is always better to see a campus when students are there. Reiterating, that all universities will be closed over the long Easter weekend.
Also, remember Spring Break is an important time for you to prepare for your AP exams and final assessments, which are critically important for UK and European university applications. Staying home and focusing on your studies at this time is often the smarter move.
To avoid arriving during a break when UK university campuses may be quiet or closed, I recommend double-checking each university’s website before booking as UK universities don’t all follow the exact same vacation schedule.
Virtual Alternatives if You Can’t Travel
Can’t make it in person? Most UK universities offer:
Course overview webinars and recorded open days
Student Q&A panels
Virtual campus tours
Zoom chats with admissions officers or student ambassadors
These are excellent ways to learn more about a university and get a feel for the campus and culture from home. Also, as some universities track your online engagement, attending these virtual events are a great way to demonstrate your interest and commitment.
Making the Most of Your Visit: What to Look For
Whether you visit before or after applying, focus on what matters most:
Course content: UK degrees are highly focused—make sure the course matches your interests.
Student accommodation: What’s available, and where is it located?
Local environment: Do you prefer a big city, a university town, a campus in the countryside or by the coast?
Student support services: Particularly important for international students with learning needs or other well-being concerns.
Student life: Ask about clubs, societies, and daily life beyond academics.
If possible, try to speak to current students to hear their honest experiences.
Final Thoughts: Trusting the Process
While visiting a university can help bring your decision to life, it’s not a requirement. UK universities care most about your academic readiness, your motivation for the subject, and the strength of your personal statement—not whether you’ve visited campus.
If you do get the chance to visit, before or after applying, it can help clarify your choices and build excitement for what’s ahead.