What should I ask current students about the reality of their classes?
To learn what classes are really like, ask about class size and format, the time needed for preparation and assignments, how attendance, participation, and group work are handled, how exams and grades are determined, and how easy it is to ask questions or get support outside class. Also ask whether the experience matches the syllabus and differs by year or course.
Key points
- Ask about the class format, class size, participation, and group-work practices.
- Ask for concrete estimates of weekly preparation, assignments, and exam demands.
- Check how grades are assessed and how accessible instructors and academic support are.
Things to check
- Class content and workload can vary by university, faculty, course, academic year, and instructor.
- A current student's experience is personal, so compare it with the official syllabus and course information.