Choosing an art school can be daunting given the many possibilities available. It is, after all, undoubtedly one of the monumental decisions you’ll make in your life. On top of that, there’s the matter of figuring out how to squeeze in site visits to your schedule. Luckily, there are a few ways to make the right decision without having to step foot outside your home.

Here are seven that we think are worth sharing so you can better allocate your resources, like time and money.

1. Attend an Online Open House

Online information sessions, otherwise known as online open house, can connect you with school representatives and fellow students in real-time. And while you may not meet as many people as you would have if you visited the campus, you can still find out more about the school’s available programs and campus life.

2. Check the School’s Rankings

All schools have their strengths and weaknesses; the key is finding the school that matches with your future goals. So if you want to be a professional graphic designer, you can check on the school rankings to show the top academies in that particular field.

3. Ask Around

Talking to current students and alumni of different schools can give you a good idea of how the school operates in real life. Do class assignments provide hands-on experience? What are the facilities like? Are the teachers invested in the futures of their students? In the age of social media, it shouldn’t be difficult to track people down and get their perspectives.

4. Student Life Videos

Online open houses can certainly give you a taste of what campus life is like, but student life videos will take it a step further. If you’re studying on-site, videos can not only show you the dorms and the grounds, but also reveal more about the personalities of the people who attend the school. For online students, videos can offer useful information about a school’s online learning interface.

5. Social Media Presence

Most schools have a Twitter, Facebook, or YouTube account that you can use to better understand the priorities of the administration. If posts are more curated, focusing on how to help students succeed, then it’s a good sign that the school has your best interests at heart. Official blogs like Fashion School Daily and student-run groups can also give you valuable insight into student life.

6. Sign Up for a Newsletter

A school’s newsletter or news feed can help you keep up with events and activities every week. The articles should reflect the values of the school and its students, so you can see what’s important to them as well.

7. Research Student and Alumni Portfolios

The work of art school students and alumni can tell you a lot about the quality of the school itself. You’re looking for a school that can produce art that is similar to what you want to create. More than that, you’re looking for a school that can teach you the necessary skills to advance your craft. If the work doesn’t interest you, then another program may suit you better.

There’s no doubt that prospective art students have a lot on their plates. You’re searching for an institution that will not only train you for a career today, but also prepare you for the markets of tomorrow. These tips can make it easier to find a school that will meet your criteria without having to visit in-person.