Coming to university is a big decision, so it's important to make sure you've got all the answers you need before you select your firm and insurance choices. Applicant Visit Days, also known as Offer Holder Days, can be game-changers for deciding where you'd like to study.
But if you’re not sure what an Applicant Visit Day is or why you should attend one, here is our complete guide to what you can expect.
What is an Applicant Visit Day?
It’s easy to confuse Applicant Visit Days with Open Days, and while they do have some similarities, they are fundamentally different. AVDs are customised events, so you’ll receive an invite if you have made an application and received an offer from us. They are also tailored to the subject you will be studying at university, helping you make a more informed decision if you’re not sure which of your offers you'd like to accept.
Open Days, on the other hand, are open to all prospective students, providing a more general overview of a course and campus. They also take place earlier in the year, so you’re more likely to attend these before you apply to university.
What are the benefits of attending an Applicant Visit Day?
Here are just some of the benefits of attending an Applicant Visit Day at the University of Cumbria.
Experience your course like never before
Interactive course sessions make up a key part of our Applicant Visit Days. They provide a real taste of what it’s going to be like on your course and are designed to get you thinking and engaging with academics, current students, and other applicants. Places on this part of the day are normally for applicants only, so your guests will be able to explore the campus or there might be a separate Q&A session for them to attend.
Meet your future course mates
Another benefit of coming to an Applicant Visit Day is that you get to meet the people you could be studying, and possibly living, with come September. While you’re all together, we’d recommend getting a group chat set up – this way, you can get to know each other before you officially start university. It’s always nice to have some friendly faces to meet up with during Welcome Week!
Chat to academic tutors and support staff
While academics will be around throughout the day to answer any questions you have about your course, including specific module information, career options, and placement opportunities, you’ll also have the chance to speak to our professional support teams. Ask them anything you want to know about accommodation, academic support, money advice, disability and SpLD, and more.
Get to know your campus
An Applicant Visit Day is a great way to explore the facilities, buildings, and rooms you’ll be taught in, as well as get your bearings on campus. If you didn’t attend one of our Open Days, or you didn’t get the chance to explore the local area while you were here last time, an AVD is also the perfect opportunity to learn more about what there is to see and do outside of your lectures, including nightlife, eating out, shopping, arts and culture, and entertainment.
Take a tour of accommodation
If you’re still undecided about whether or not to live in halls, an AVD provides you with another chance to explore university accommodation and decide if it’s the right option for you – you’ll usually be shown around a shared flat and any common areas. These tours are typically run by our accommodation team, but current students will be on hand to offer their advice and answer your questions.
Frequently asked questions about AVDs
Here are some of the most common questions we get about our Applicant Visit Days.
Do I have to attend an Applicant Visit Day?
Applicant Visit Days aren’t compulsory, but they can be invaluable when you’re trying to decide which offers to accept. If you can attend, we’d highly recommend that you do!
Can I bring someone with me to my Applicant Visit Day?
Yes. Some applicants bring their parents, while others bring a partner or friend. You are also welcome to come along without any guests – it's entirely up to you.
What will I do in an interactive session?
This differs from subject to subject, but you can usually expect a talk, an informal Q&A, and some kind of activity. Before your AVD, we’ll email you your programme, so you’ll be able to see what your course team has planned.
Find out more
You can read more FAQs, and hear what some of our current students had to say about their Applicant Visit Days, by clicking on the link below.
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