In the ever-competitive world of higher education, UK universities are constantly searching for that extra edge to draw in the brightest students. Enter virtual university tours – a digital innovation that’s completely transforming how students explore campuses and make those all-important UCAS decisions. Let’s break down why this tech-savvy tool is becoming a must-have in university recruitment.
Why Are Virtual University Tours So Important? 📈
The Shift in Student Recruitment
These days, students are applying to multiple universities—and let’s not forget the surge in international interest. That means your campus needs to stand out, even for those who can’t physically visit. Virtual university tours offer a brilliant solution, allowing students to ‘visit’ from anywhere in the world, any time of the day.
Impressive Numbers to Consider
- 80% of students find virtual university tours helpful in deciding on a university.
- Universities have seen a 30% increase in international applications after launching virtual tours.
- Engagement on university websites jumps by up to 200% when virtual university tours are available. 🚀
Top Benefits of Virtual University Tours for Higher Education 📚
- Reach Students Everywhere
Break down geographic barriers and attract students from across the globe. - Showcase What Makes You Unique
Whether it’s cutting-edge labs, historic architecture, or buzzing student life, a virtual tour brings your unique selling points to life. - Boost Engagement
Keep prospective students exploring your website longer, increasing their likelihood of applying. - Cost-Effective Marketing
Save on the costs of printed materials and in-person open days (though those still have their place!). - Support Widening Participation
Make your university accessible to students who might not have the resources to visit in person.
Key Features of a Standout Virtual University Tour 🔍
If you want your tour to be more than just a digital slideshow, here’s what to include:
- Comprehensive Campus Coverage
- Lecture halls and classrooms
- Libraries and study spaces
- Student accommodation
- Sports facilities and gym areas
- Student union and social spots for downtime
- Interactive Elements
- Clickable info hotspots with details on courses and facilities
- Video testimonials from current students and lecturers
- Quick links to course pages and application forms
- Accessibility is Key
- Mobile-friendly design (students are glued to their phones, after all)
- Options for different internet speeds
- Compatibility with screen readers to support all users
- Seamless Integration with Branding
Make sure the tour aligns with your university’s visual identity and tone to give a cohesive experience.
Best Practices for Implementing Virtual University Tours 🎥
- Choose the Right Tech
Platforms like Matterport offer high-quality 3D tours, perfect for showcasing even the most complex campuses. - Plan Your Tour Route
Highlight the areas that make your university unique. Think about the journey a prospective student would take on an actual visit. - Capture Your Campus at Its Best
Timing is everything. Shoot on sunny days during term time to capture the lively atmosphere (nobody wants to see an empty campus on a rainy Tuesday). - Bring Student Life to the Forefront
Don’t just show buildings—highlight the people, events, and energy that make your campus feel like home. - Keep it Fresh
Regularly update your tour with new buildings, renovations, or changes to campus life to keep it relevant.
Getting the Most Out of Virtual University Tours 🖥️💡
- Integrate with Your Marketing Strategy
- Feature the tour prominently on your website.
- Include it in prospectus emails and UCAS communications.
- Share it on social platforms like Instagram and TikTok, where students are spending their time.
- Use It in Recruitment Events
Incorporate the tour into online and in-person open days for an immersive experience. - Train Your Admissions Team
Make sure your staff can guide students through the virtual tour, pointing out key highlights. - Gather Feedback
Continuously ask students for feedback and tweak the tour to improve engagement.
Real Success Stories from UK Universities 🏆
Russell Group University Sees Impressive Results
After launching a comprehensive virtual tour, one prestigious university reported:
- 45% increase in international applications
- 30% boost in website engagement
- 20% higher attendance at physical open days
A Modern University Highlights Its Strengths
A newer university used virtual tours to showcase its cutting-edge STEM facilities:
- 50% spike in applications for science courses
- 35% jump in first-choice applications
- 25% rise in conversion from offer to acceptance
Overcoming Common Concerns 🛠️
Q: Will virtual tours replace physical open days?
A: Not at all! Virtual tours are a fantastic complement. They actually drive more interest in attending physical visits by getting students excited about what they’ve seen online.
Q: What about the cost?
A: Think of it as an investment. The potential increase in applications and enrolments often outweighs the initial cost of creating a tour.
Q: Can a virtual tour capture our campus atmosphere?
A: Absolutely! With student testimonials, interactive hotspots, and authentic visuals, a well-made tour can bring your campus culture to life.
FAQs About Virtual University Tours ❓
Q: How long does it take to create a virtual tour?
A: With experts like Trusted Photography, a full university tour can usually be completed in 2-4 weeks, depending on campus size.
Q: Can we update the tour ourselves?
A: Yes! While major updates might require a professional touch, many platforms let you make smaller changes and add new information points yourself.
Q: How do we measure the success of our virtual tour?
A: Keep an eye on metrics like website engagement, tour completion rates, application numbers, and feedback from prospective students.
Ready to Elevate Your University Recruitment? 🎓✨
In this digital age, virtual tours are quickly becoming a must-have tool for attracting top talent from across the UK and beyond. By offering an immersive, accessible glimpse into campus life, you’re not just showing off your facilities—you’re helping students picture themselves thriving on your campus.
Here at Trusted Photography, we specialise in creating stunning virtual university tours. Our team knows exactly how to capture the spirit of your campus and bring it to life for prospective students.
Ready to transform your recruitment strategy? Contact us today to create a virtual tour that will have students eagerly adding your university to their UCAS applications! 📩