This is perhaps one of the most important ways that a campus presents itself.

The Web is often the first "door to the campus" that is opened by prospective students, and ideally it should answer the vast majority of student and parent questions, while at the same time presenting a positive image of the campus.

Prospective students should look for entrance requirements, the high school courses required, the campus policies on advanced placement, and the test scores of previously admitted classes. Often the admission page will have links to a campus tour, providing images of the campus and grounds. Furthermore, the Web site may provide information about campus tours and interviews, including times, availability, and means of scheduling.

You might want to see if there is any possibility of getting questions answered by admissions officials via e-mail.

Are the required admissions forms available online, and can they be submitted electronically? Many campuses do have all of their forms online and downloadable. However, not all campuses will accept applications via the network, as they want writing samples, essays, or other materials submitted in the student's own handwriting. You should check and make sure you fully understand what can be submitted in what format, so that no deadlines or requirements are overlooked.

In terms of financial aid, parents and students should carefully review this area together. Does the Web site describe the types of aid that are possible (need-based aid, merit aid, loans, and so forth)? Information about the campus financial aid policies and practices is important, as the application for financial aid is often complex and requires the submission of a fair amount of confidential information from a family (prior tax returns, for example).

Often it will help if the family can look at the required forms ahead of time to determine their qualifications and to more fully understand what would be required, eligibility, and so forth. Some of these forms are unique to a given campus, but there are also forms for national programs like the FAFSA form. Are these accessible via the network and can questions about financial aid be addressed via e-mail?