11 Embarrassing (and Just Plain Strange) Questions Parents Ask on College Tours

By Molly Walsh - College tours are supposed to be exciting. They’re a glimpse into what could be the next four years of a student’s life—new friends, academic challenges, and a bit of self-discovery. But for many teens, these tours come with a catch: their parents. While well-intentioned, some parents just can’t help themselves when it comes to asking questions—questions that range from painfully embarrassing to downright bizarre.

Here are 15 real-life examples that have left students cringing, tour guides struggling to keep a straight face, and everyone wondering, Did they really just ask that?

1. “What’s the party scene like here?”

A classic. While it’s reasonable to ask about student life, no teenager wants to hear their mom ask whether keg parties are common or if the school has “ragers.”

2. “Do the dorms have co-ed bathrooms? Because that’s a deal-breaker for me.”

This one always gets a few chuckles, often not from the students. It’s a common question, but something about the way it’s usually phrased adds a layer of awkwardness.

3. “Can I track my child’s grades online? I’d like to stay involved.”

This screams helicopter parent. Most colleges follow strict privacy laws, and asking to spy on your kid’s GPA makes them want to disappear.

4. “Are there curfews or nightly check-ins for freshmen?”

I'm sorry, but this isn’t a boarding school. Asking this out loud only reinforces your child’s fear that you’ll never let go.

5. “Will someone do their laundry if they forget?”

What are we expecting here—a laundry fairy? Your kid may be clueless about fabric softener, but this isn’t a hotel.

6. “Do you separate boys and girls in classrooms to reduce distractions?”

Unless you're visiting a 19th-century academy, the answer is a hard no. This question usually earns a confused silence from everyone present.

7. “Can I bunk with my child in the dorms for the first few nights?”

Absolutely not. The only thing worse than this question is when it’s followed by, “I’ll bring an air mattress.”

8. “What happens if my child doesn’t make friends? Do you assign them one?”

As sweet as this is, friendship isn’t part of the housing contract. College is about figuring it out—even if that means awkward icebreakers and roommate mixers.

9. “Is there a dress code for class? I don’t want my daughter distracted.”

Most college students barely get out of their pajamas for 8 a.m. lectures. You're in the wrong place if you're looking for ties and blazers.

10. “Do you test the fire alarms regularly? My son is a light sleeper.”

Fire safety is essential, but this makes it sound like your child is allergic to responsibility.

11. “Can I call the RA if my child doesn’t answer my texts?”

This is not an extension of your parenting hotline. Resident Assistants aren’t here to play detective for worried parents.

Final Thoughts

Parents, we know you love your kids and want what’s best for them. But college is a significant step toward independence. Asking about safety, academics, and resources is totally fair, but there’s a fine line between being concerned and being cringeworthy.

A good rule of thumb? If your question starts with “Can I still…” or “Will someone else…”—pause. Maybe let your student ask a few questions themselves. After all, they’re the ones going to college, not you.

And if you're truly worried about laundry, dress codes, or fire alarms, there’s always email. Ask quietly. Spare your teen the trauma.