Start with your programme
Identify the buildings, laboratories, studios or libraries relevant to the course. A general tour may highlight the most attractive spaces without showing the resources you would use. Write down what the tour establishes and what still needs a programme-specific answer.
Follow an ordinary day
Imagine arriving for an early class, taking a lunch break, working on an assignment and returning to accommodation or public transport. Look for distances and practical access. A virtual tour gives spatial context, but it cannot establish current opening hours, availability or the experience of a crowded teaching day.
Ask about access, not just existence
A facility matters only if students on your programme can use it. Ask about booking, supervision, opening times and any extra charges. For accessibility needs, contact the institution about your specific requirements; photographs alone cannot confirm a suitable route or service.
Record evidence clearly
Use three headings in your notes: seen in the tour, stated by the university and still to verify. Date the note and keep the source link. If a virtual viewer does not load, use the official university page or arrange another way to ask about the facilities.
Compare after the visit
Complete your notes before moving to another campus so that details do not blur together. Compare each option against your own priorities rather than the quality of its video production. For online programmes, investigate the learning environment and learner community separately from a physical campus.