6 Steps to a Successful School Tour

It's no secret that a great school tour can seal the deal for a family deciding where to enroll their child. With so many options available, giving prospective families an engaging and personalized experience is essential to helping them feel confident in their decision.

These six steps will ensure families walk away from your school excited and ready to enroll!

#1: Anticipate Parents’ Questions

Parents want to make the best choice for their child, and that means they’ll come prepared with plenty of questions. What makes your school unique? What kind of academic and extracurricular opportunities are available? How do teachers support students? What are the class sizes?

Before conducting school tours, generate a list of the most common questions parents ask. Being well-prepared ensures you provide clear, confident answers that give parents peace of mind. Addressing their concerns before they even have to ask is a great way to show you’re attentive and proactive.

#2: Tailor Your Tour

Each student is unique, and your school tour should reflect that. Before the tour, ask parents about their child’s interests, needs, and goals.

If a student loves sports, highlight your athletic programs and show them the gym or fields. If they’re passionate about the arts, focus on your music or theater programs. A tailored tour makes a stronger impression and helps families see how their child will thrive at your school.

#3: Inform and Align Faculty

A school tour isn’t just about the facilities, it’s largely about the people and community. Ensure your front office staff, teachers, and leadership team are aware of tour schedules so they can help create a welcoming environment.

A warm greeting at the front desk sets the tone for the visit, and if possible, arrange for families to meet a teacher or students in their child’s grade. Giving them a chance to connect with the school community builds excitement and helps them picture themselves as part of it.

#4: Be Confident and Friendly

You’re not just giving a tour you’re sharing what makes your school special. Confidence and enthusiasm go a long way in making a great impression.

If you seem unsure or unprepared, parents may second-guess whether your school is the right fit. Instead, show excitement for your programs, staff, and students. A friendly and engaging approach creates a positive atmosphere that families will remember long after the tour ends.

#5: Leave No Room for Ambiguity

Before families leave, make sure they know exactly what the next steps are in the enrollment process. Whether it’s filling out an application, submitting documents, or attending a follow-up event, clarity is key.

A sense of urgency can also help encourage action. If there’s a deadline or limited spots available, be sure to mention it. Following up with a personalized email or text after the tour is a great way to keep the momentum going and guide them toward completing the enrollment process.

#6: Offer a Virtual Tour Option

Not every family can attend an in-person tour, and some may want a quick preview before visiting. Offering a virtual tour—whether through a live walkthrough, pre-recorded video, or interactive online experience—gives parents the flexibility to explore your school from home.

A well-done virtual tour should be just as engaging as an in-person visit. Keep it updated, highlight your school’s best features, and ensure it’s easy to find on your website. Having a virtual option shows that your school values accessibility and convenience, which can be a major plus for busy families.

Make Your School Stand Out with Schola

Want to get more families through your doors? Make sure your school is verified on Schola so you can start matching with interesting families, connecting with them, and schedule tours to fill your classrooms!