When Are University Open Days In The UK?

If you’re thinking about going to university in the future, an open day is the best way to explore the campus and decide if studying there is the right fit for you. You can check out the accommodation, speak to current students and learn more about what’s included in your course.  

We’ve put together this blog with all the information you need about when UK university open days are. Plus, we’ve got the answers to any other questions you might have, including: 

• What happens on a uni open day?
• What to ask at uni open days?
• What to wear to a uni open day?
• How long should you spend at a uni open day?
• How many open days should you go to?
• Are uni open days worth it?

When are university open days? 

Many universities offer open days throughout the year, but they’re most common between June and October. This is when A-level and college students think about university choices ahead of the main UCAS application deadline in January.  

You can easily use the UCAS portal to search for upcoming open days. If you can’t make the open day of your dream university, don’t panic - most universities offer multiple open days throughout the year. Plus, many will happily arrange a private tour if you can’t make any of their dates.  

What happens on a uni open day? 

Each university will do things slightly differently, but most open days start around 10 am and finish around 3 pm. Here are some activities that most open days will involve: 

• Campus tours
• Accommodation tours
• Subject or department talks
• Student finance or UCAS talks
• Practice lectures, workshops or taster sessions
• Current student meet and greets

What to ask at uni open days? 

To get the most out of your open day experience, it’s essential to prepare some questions ahead of time that you can ask while you’re there. You can ask staff, lecturers, and current students about your course, university life, and accommodation options. 

Here are some ideas to help you get started: 

• What's the accommodation like? 
• Is there accommodation available off campus?
• How and when do I need to apply for accommodation?
• What are the facilities like on campus, and are there good transport links?
• How many teaching hours a week does the course have?
• What grades or
• Do you have any tips for my application and personal statement?
• Are there any work placements or study-abroad opportunities? 
• What sports and societies are there?
• What’s the nightlife like?
• Is it easy to find part-time work, and are there any student jobs on campus?

What to wear to a uni open day? 

A university open day isn’t an interview, so you can dress however you like. Just be aware that you might be meeting your future coursemates and lecturers, so you want to make a good impression. It’s also recommended that you wear some comfortable shoes, as you’ll likely be walking quite a bit.  

How long should you spend at a uni open day? 

Most open days have talks and activities spread out throughout the day. You should try to spend at least four hours on campus to make the most of your visit.  

How many open days should you go to? 

There is no set number of open days you should attend - it’ll all depend on you. It’s a good idea to visit all the universities you’re considering or have applied to. This will help you get a sense of what’s on offer at each university and make the right decision.  

Of course, you might not be able to attend the open day of every university you’re considering, especially if some are far from where you currently live. Many universities offer virtual open days and tours if you can't attend in person. 

Are uni open days worth it? 

Although you can get all the information you need online, visiting in person means you’ll get to experience campus life with your own eyes. Attending a taster session, workshop, or sample lecture will give you a glimpse into what studying at that university will be like - something you can’t get online! 

You’ll be able to tour the campus and see the accommodation options in real life rather than relying on pictures that might not tell you the whole story. Most students go for on campus accommodation in first year and then opt for student housing in second and third year. Plus, you’ll be able to talk to current students and get honest answers to any questions you might have.  

Attending an open day is the best way to make sure you make the best choice about your future - you’ll be studying there for three (or more) years, so you need to choose wisely! 

All-inclusive student accommodation by UniHomes 

If you’re thinking about applying to university in the future, sorting out your accommodation might not be the first thing on your mind.  

In your first year, you’ll likely be given the option of university halls of residence or private accommodation. After that, you’ll need to look for a privately rented student house or flat to share with your friends. This is where UniHomes can help… 

UniHomes has an extensive landlord and letting agent network with all-inclusive student properties across the UK. So wherever you plan to go to university, finding the perfect student house with our easy-to-use search tool is simple!  

Not all student properties include all bills, but all the ones on our site do! You won’t have to think about splitting household bills with your housemates or setting up utility accounts—our team handles all that for you. 

Contact us today to learn more about how all-inclusive student accommodation works, or look at the properties for rent in your future student city.