WELLESLEY, Mass. -- Planning a road trip with the kids, not for vacation but for college tours?

Families having to travel to prospective campuses might be a thing of the past with high school students finding that virtual campus trips are enticing and affordable thanks to a free service from a local company.

Students from Emerson College recently met online with Wellesley High students who were interested in learning more about the Boston school. There was no driving, no touring, just questions answered, for free, all on computer.

"They're able to get access to admissions representatives, not only from their region but across the world," said Robert Rosenbloom, the creator of www.collegeweeklive.com, the Internet service that allows for virtual interviews and visits.

He said there's a wide range of choices because of the large number of schools participating.

"We're not going to replace the college visit, but in today's economic times, students and parents, they can't afford to visit 10, 15 colleges," Rosenbloom said.

Courtney Matthews' parents tired after just a few road trips. She said they took her to a few schools, but it gets very costly.

Others, however, admit there are limitations.

"I can't see what the campus looks like or walk around and see how the kids are feeling, but you can talk to them," said student Kristen Mikelssen.

Some of the students said the service saves time and money and colleges said it helps them cut costs by not flying to every college fair.

"I'm doing it from my office, we have students on staff doing it from the office. We don't lose productivity," Emerson's Tim Douglas said.

Thursday, Oct. 15 is New England Day on the Web site and students will be able to talk to college reps from all across the region online.