Most admissions professionals agree that visiting colleges is one of the most important parts of the college search process. It is important to start looking during your junior year. Gary Rold, Director of Admissions for Elmhurst College, tells juniors to even visit schools that may not be on their list. It's good practice and it gets you ready for visits to your top choices.

Ask the tough questions and listen carefully to the answers. Ask about specific programs, financial commitments and try to get past any positive spins the admissions department might be presenting.

Donna Virklan, College Counselor from Niles North High School in Skokie, Ill recommends that juniors start compiling a list of prospective colleges in the spring of their junior year and then getting on the road and actually visiting schools. Many high schools will give you a day off and many colleges have special visiting days just for juniors.

Also, Donna suggests that you take some time now, before application season begins, to put together a resume and a personal statement. These two documents will be used over and over again the application process and having them handy will be an important part of the process. She asks all her students to go over their personal statements with their guidance counselor who can provide valuable feedback.

Mary Chase, Assistant Vice President for Enrollment Management and Director of Admissions and Scholarship for Creighton University tells Cappex.com that getting out to visit colleges during the spring of your junior year is a critical part of getting ready to apply.

Most high schools will let you off for a day or two to go visit colleges. Mary recommends going during the week while classes are in session and to make sure you contact the admissions office before your visit.

If you can't make it to campus there most schools have online tours. Whatever you do, start early and get on campus!