Exhibitor Guidelines

Exhibitors at National College Fairs play a major role in the success of our programs. The National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC), along with members of the NCF Committee and local arrangements committee, are responsible for creating a professional and safe environment for the delivery of the National College Fairs program. Basic exhibitor guidelines include:

  • Arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the start of the fair and stay for the entire program.
  • Exhibitors are expected to follow the cancellation policy detailed on the National College Fairs registration form. NACAC will follow up with schools that are no-shows.
  • NACAC recommends professional attire. Dress to best represent your school and wear a name badge. If you do not have a name badge, one may be provided to you at the information booth.
  • Attending alumni should report to the information booth to receive a copy of the National College Fair Alumni Representative Guidelines. These should be reviewed prior to the start of the fair.
  • No more than three representatives may staff a booth at one time.
  • Recruitment and distribution of literature is restricted to the parameters of the booth.
  • Audio-visual volume should be kept to a minimum as not to interfere with other exhibitors.
  • Demonstrations such as food preparation, mascots, drawings (raffles), competitions, or similar activities are not permitted.
  • Displays should not exceed the parameters of the booth (standard height is eight feet) or obstruct the view of adjacent booths.
  • Use of space, regardless of the number of linear booths utilized, e.g. 10ft by 20ft. display materials, should be arranged so as not to obstruct sight lines of neighboring exhibitors. The maximum height of 8ft is allowed only in the rear half of the booth space, with a 4ft height restriction imposed on all free standing floor displays in the remaining space forward to the aisle.
  • Aisles must be kept completely clear of materials and displays.
  • Open flames, butane gas, oxygen tanks or other flammable substances are not permitted. Depending on the fire ordinances of the host city, certain materials may be required to withstand a fireproof test.
  • Items may not be attached to any structures in the facility including columns, walls, floors, etc…
  • Small promotional items are permissible but must be handed out with literature, or include links or QR codes, pertaining to the college or university. Promotional items should be used to enhance meaningful connections with students, not detract from the student’s ability to talk to the admission representative. Permitted items include: Pens, lanyards, keychains, small magnets, wristbands, pennants and buttons. If you are not sure if an item is acceptable, please ask the NACAC representative onsite. The following are examples of prohibited items: water bottles, apparel (e.g. t-shirts, hats, socks, sweatshirts), food/candy, bags, and toys/noisemakers.
  • In order to ensure all attendees and exhibitors have a positive experience, please notify the NACAC representative at the information booth if you encounter solicitors or any unauthorized activity.
  • Complete the exhibitor evaluation after the fair. A link to the online survey will be emailed to the primary contact of your institution.
  • For questions or special requests, please contact Collegefairs@nacacnet.org.

By agreeing the Participant/Registration Agreement, your institution acknowledges that you have read and understood the guidelines of NACAC’s Guide to Ethical Practice in College Admission. Failure to adhere to these guidelines will result in your institution being asked to vacate your booth and the National College Fair.