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How to Make the Most of Montclair’s Open House

Ready to dive into Red Hawk life? Explore the academic programs and campus resources that matter most to you, all at your own pace, with personalized options to guide your experience.

Posted in: Admissions, Homepage News, University

Two students sitting under a tree on Montclair State University's campus. The Open House events provide an opportunity for prospective students to experience campus life firsthand.
Explore campus life at Montclair's Open House on Sunday, October 13 or Sunday, November 10. (Photo by University Photographer Mike Peters)

Montclair State University’s Open House offers a chance to explore the campus, meet with faculty, and discover more about academic programs, financial aid and student life. It’s a great way to experience what life could be like as a Red Hawk. Whether you’re visiting Montclair’s main campus or Bloomfield College of Montclair State University, here’s how to make the most of your visit.

Register for an Open House

Make sure to register for the Montclair Open House on Sunday, October 13 or Sunday, November 10, and for the Bloomfield Open House on Saturday, October 26 or Monday, February 17, 2025.

Plan Your Day at Montclair with Our Event App

“Our Open House is designed to be as unique as the student’s individual interests and desires,” says Director of Undergraduate Admissions Jordanna Maziarz. With more than 6,000 prospective students and their families on campus for the Open House, staying organized is key. Montclair provides an event app, allowing you to create a personalized schedule, view maps and navigate the experience like a “choose-your-own adventure.”

Top Reasons to Attend an Open House

Get a Feel for the Campus

Walking around campus allows you to picture yourself as a student. Visit residence halls, academic buildings, the Student Center and explore opportunities for involvement in leadership and student activities.

Meet Faculty and Staff

Attend a presentation or have one-on-one conversations with faculty and staff. This is the perfect time to ask questions about academic programs, internship and career opportunities, and learn what sets Montclair apart academically, including: 

What if I’m Unsure About My Major?

It’s okay to be undecided. Use the Open House as an opportunity to ask questions about the different programs and explore what interests you most. You’ll learn about our University College — the first and still the only program in New Jersey for undecided students — that supports undergraduates with expert guidance as they explore majors aligned with their interests and career goals.

Learn About the Admissions Process

Get insights into application deadlines, scholarships, and tips for submitting a strong application. Knowing this ahead of time can give you an advantage when you apply.

Explore Financial Aid Options

Learn about the financial aid process and opportunities that help make Montclair accessible. 

  • Students on both our Bloomfield and Montclair campuses are eligible for our tuition-free program, the Red Hawk Advantage Award
  • Our redesigned Honors Program that encourages students to explore public service and creative leadership, two signature values of Montclair.  Honors Program students are eligible for up to $2,000 in funding toward an experiential learning opportunity, scholarships and participate in a living-learning community in the Heights residence halls. 

Experience Red Hawk Pride

Meet our mascots Rocky and Roxy, as well as Pebbles, the official campus pupscot! Get introduced to our 18 varsity sports teams and over 120 clubs, including artistic, spiritual, political, issues-oriented, cultural and community-service organizations. There’s also a strong volunteer spirit, with students making connections and impacting local communities.

See the Residence Halls

Explore what it’s like to live on campus. Tour first-year student living options at Bohn Hall and suite-style living at Blanton Hall and the incredible views from Machuga in the Heights.

The Red Hawk statue at Montclair State University, set against the backdrop of Spanish Mission Revival architecture. Students often rub the statue's beak for good luck during finals and on game days.
The Spanish Mission Revival architecture of Montclair State University frames the Red Hawk statue, whose beak is rubbed for good luck during finals and on game days. (Photo by University Photographer Mike Peters)

What Impresses Visitors Most about Montclair?

Regan Neal, a senior Psychology major and one of Montclair’s Admissions Ambassadors, frequently leads prospective students and their families on campus tours. She notes that the most common “Wow” factor for visitors is the impressive size of the university. Montclair is the second largest university in New Jersey with more than 300 majors, minors and concentrations. 

“I also get a lot of people who tell me the campus is beautiful and that they love the Mission Revival architecture. They’ll say, ‘It feels like California has been plopped into New Jersey.’”

For a Sneak Peek of What You’ll Find at Montclair:

I’m a ______, tell me more…

Prospective Student / Parent: Plan a visit to our campus and take the first step in applying to become a Red Hawk!
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