Upcoming 2026 University Admission Events & Open Days

If you’re thinking of university in 2026, one of the best ways to decide where to go is by attending open days and admission events. These gatherings let you see campuses, talk to teachers, meet students, and ask important questions. In this post, I’ll tell you how to find these events, what to expect, and tips so you don’t miss out.

Why Open Days & Admission Events Matter

You might wonder: “Do I really need to go?” Yes. Online pages are helpful, but nothing replaces seeing things in real life (or virtually, guided).

• You get a feel for campus vibe.
• You see facilities — lecture halls, labs, libraries.
• You talk directly with staff and ask real questions (about courses, fees, scholarships).
• Sometimes there are events just for admissions—explaining the process, giving you help with applications.

Also, many universities announce new courses or changes during these events. If you attend, you might learn something you didn’t know.

How to Find 2026 Admission Events & Open Days

Here’s how to find them (and not miss them).

1. University websites & “events” pages
   Each university usually has a section for “Open Day,” “Visit Us,” or “Events.” For example, the University of Queensland (UQ) has an Open Day page that says registrations for their 2026 event will open in July.
2. Check the top universities announcements
   Some universities already have confirmed dates. For instance, the Australian National University (ANU) will hold its Open Day on Saturday, 28 March 2026.
3. Follow social media & newsletters
   Universities share updates via Facebook, Instagram, and email. Subscribe to their mailing lists. Then, when dates are confirmed, you’ll get a notice directly.
4. Event calendars & aggregator sites
   Some websites list multiple open days across universities. Checking those occasionally helps. (You may search “university open days Australia 2026” plus your city).
5. University admissions offices & school counsellors
   Ask your school or counsellor — they often have copies of brochures or schedules. The admissions teams sometimes send you personal invites.

Some Known 2026 Open Day Events (Australia Focus)

Here are a few confirmed or expected open days:

• ANU Open Day: Saturday 28 March 2026 — campus tours, info sessions, student life talks.
• Griffith University: Open Day in August 2026 at Gold Coast and Brisbane South campuses.
• Flinders University: They run yearly open days; their site indicates continuing those in 2026.
• University of Tasmania (UTAS): Open days scheduled at various campuses (Sydney, Hobart, Launceston) in the Sept/Oct timeframe.
• RMIT: Their Open Day for 2025 is done, but their site says to stay tuned for 2026 details.

These give you an idea — many universities run these once or twice a year. You’ll want to keep checking.

What Happens at These Events & What You Should Do

Here’s what’s typically part of a university open day or admission event — and how to plan:

• Campus tours: walking around, seeing lecture rooms, labs, and dormitories.
• Information sessions: about courses, degrees, majors, and entry requirements.
• Workshops & demonstrations: for example, lab demos, art show, tech displays.
• Q&A booths: meet staff from admissions, student services, and financial aid.
• Meet students: talk to current students about how they like life there.
• Scholarship & fees info: Many events run sessions on how to pay, what options you have.

What you should bring/do:

• Notebook & pen (you’ll hear a lot).
• A list of questions (e.g. “What’s the class size?”, “Are there internship programs?”).
• Comfortable shoes (campuses are big).
• A camera or phone to take photos or record.
• Water & snack, if allowed.

Before the event, check the schedule — sometimes sessions clash, so plan which ones you want to attend.

How to Get the Most From the Events

Don’t just walk around — be active. Here are some tips:

• Arrive early: sometimes spots in sessions are limited.
• Go to the faculty/department booths you’re interested in.
• Ask tough questions, like: “What jobs do graduates get?” or “What support is available for students who struggle?”
• Observe the students — do they look happy, stressed, busy? That gives cues.
• Take notes right after sessions, while things are fresh.
• Collect brochures or take photos of boards you like.
• If there’s a campus map, mark places you’d like to revisit later.

Virtual Open Days & Online Alternatives

Sometimes you can’t physically visit (distance, cost, travel). Many universities offer virtual open days or hybrid events. These include:

• Virtual campus tours (videos or 360° views)
• Live webinars with staff & students
• Chat rooms or live Q&A
• Recorded sessions you can watch anytime

These are helpful — but where possible, combine them with a real visit later if you can. The real environment gives more context.

How to Use the Events for Your Admission Strategy

Open days do more than show you around. Use them to help your application:

• Ask about entry requirements — ATAR, special tests, portfolio, interviews.
• Check deadlines and dates for applying.
• Learn about bonus points, bridging courses or foundation programs.
• Understand scholarships and financial aid offers.
• See if they offer pathway programs (if your grades are slightly low).
• Get contact information — staff are often happy to help you later.

If you have somewhere in mind, visiting there first helps you compare with others.

Timeline & When to Watch Out

Here’s a rough schedule to guide your planning:

• One year before (2025): start looking; check university websites often.
• Six to nine months before (late 2025 / early 2026): dates for 2026 open days often appear.
• A few months before each event: register (many require booking).
• During event season (often March–August in Australia): attend as many as you can.
• After events: follow up with staff, ask further questions, revisit campuses.

Mark your calendar, set reminders — don’t miss registration windows.

Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

• Waiting too late: many open days fill fast.
• Not registering ahead — many events require you to book.
• Not checking transport or parking — you may struggle to reach campus.
• Ignoring small universities — sometimes smaller campuses offer unique courses.
• Relying solely on virtual tours — they help, but they might miss certain details.

Final Tips & Encouragement

Going to open days and admission events is a smart move. Even if you visit only one, you’ll get new insights.

Here are the final tips:

• Make a shortlist of universities you like, then check their event dates side by side.
• Bring someone with you (friend, parent) — a fresh set of ears helps.
• Don’t feel pressured — it’s okay to take your time deciding.
• Stay flexible: sometimes you change your mind after seeing a campus in person.

In short: plan early, go with questions, and keep an open mind. Your decision will be better informed after seeing real places and hearing real stories.