A prospective student is someone who has not yet committed to attending a specific university. A prospective student can be incoming undergraduate freshmen, transfer, graduate or international student.
Because a prospective student has not confirmed enrollment to a specific university, if she has expressed interest in any universities, those institutions do what they can to help the student make a final decision by providing resources and tools.
Most university websites devote a separate page or section as a resource for prospective students. This page or section includes an overview of the application and admitting process and links to apply to become a student at the university, as well as information and links to apply for financial aid.
Transitioning into college life is a momentous process in a student’s life. Universities provide information and student orientations help to make the transition from being a prospective student to an enrolled student a smooth one.
Students from other countries interested in attending a university in the United Kingdom are required to apply for a prospective student visa. The prospective student visa is valid for six months during which he can visit different universities. Once a prospective student has decided which university he wants to attend, he must apply for the General Student visa, valid for the time he is enrolled in his chosen university.