A college fair is an event where representatives from many colleges and universities gather in one place to meet with students and their families.
College fairs provide an opportunity for students to learn about different schools, ask questions about admissions, programs, financial aid and gather information to help arrange their college lists.
College and career counselor Beatrice Nguyen said, “I definitely think that college fairs can be super beneficial to juniors and seniors in so many ways. The most important thing is that it helps students narrow their choices down and understand that there are more colleges than their top ten.”
A benefit of college fairs is that students can discover new schools that align with their goals for the future. College fairs open doors to exciting opportunities through engagement with college representatives in person that can help students make a positive impression and demonstrate interest, which most admissions offices value.
Junior Sonia Carey (11) said, “I like going to college fairs because the representatives are very specific about the colleges’ values and student life. Asking questions and getting to know a variety of different universities and colleges is helpful when it comes to making a college list.”
Open to all students and their families, this event is a great opportunity to explore many different college programs. Students can connect with admissions specialists from colleges and universities from around the world and learn more about different career pathways.
Ms. Nguyen added, “Colleges pay attention to the students who attend and show interest. This gives an idea to the colleges about the students and because most of the representatives are those who are in charge of admissions, students can benefit from attending and asking questions”
The Several college fairs happening in Orange County in October 2025 include over 100 colleges across the nation.
The Newport-Mesa Unified School District College and Career Fair will take place on October 22 at the OC Fair & Event Center.
The SAUSD College & Career Community Resource Fair will take place on October 23 at the Heritage Museum of Orange County, and the Orange County School of the Arts College Fair on October 17.
Other events include the South Orange County NACCAP College Fair on October 22. College fairs can be crucial for families who are interested in learning more details about financial aid and scholarships available.
Representatives from college student services departments will share resources for students with plans to support a successful transition to college and advanced education.
By speaking directly with admissions officers, families can get advice that might not be available online. Families can ask about the total cost of attendance, typical financial aid packages, and what factors might increase their eligibility for more support.
Some college fairs even host workshops led by financial aid experts who walk families through how to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid or discuss the differences between federal and institutional aid.
