Choosing a college requires research, especially when you are deciding on programs in another country. A visit to the school’s campus would help you to get an idea of what life would be like. This travel is not always possible for international students, though. Time Magazine reports that many students are now turning to new technology to virtually visit schools and meet admissions counselors.

A Google study found that “nine in ten enrolled students have used the Internet to research higher education institutions.” Students can use tools like Google+, a technology that allows students to attend information sessions or college interviews virtually. Specific tools include Google Hangouts or Hangouts on Air, a multi-person video chat platform that anyone can watch by streaming. Many schools also use this technology to reach potential students. For example, Duke University worked with Google+ to hold online chats with prospective students to talk about academics, student research and college sports.

You also can use websites like YouTube and YouVisit to watch videos about a particular school and attend virtual campus tours.

Are you interested in studying in the United States? You can use EducationUSA as a resource at home while you research, but you must remember to attend a Student and Exchange Visitor Program-certified school. Be sure to check out our college application season post for helpful tips and resources about the college admissions process.

Sources:

• Never Visit a College Campus with Your Parents Again Thanks to Google; Time Magazine
• The Search for Knowledge: How Students Use Digital to Choose Schools; Google, Think Insights