Image shows a student posing along a lush hiking trail

National Student Exchange

Adventure is calling. Where will you go?

National Student Exchange (NSE) inspires academic enrichment, personal exploration, and student development by facilitating accessible collegiate study away among member colleges and universities throughout the United States, Canada, Guam, Puerto Rico, and U.S Virgin Islands. NSE is open to all academic undergraduate majors; With more than 180+ institutions, you're sure to find your best fit. 

Pay either Iowa State tuition and fees, or the in-state/resident rate at the host institution. Your ISU financial aid travels with you, making NSE an affordable and financially accessible option. 

What are you waiting for? 

Current application timelines  

  • Fall 2025-Spring 2026 exchanges: Priority applications accepted from December 2, 2024 to February 21, 2025. 

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After studying away, participants:

  • 94%

    Gained more insight about themselves

  • 88%

    Grew more confident in ability to problem solve

Where will NSE take you?

National Student Exchange is the premier provider of study away opportunities in the U.S. There are so many reasons to study away, including: 

  • Visit a new region of the country, or North America
  • Experience a low-cost study away option
  • Take advantage of courses not available at Iowa State University 
  • Add unique experiences to your resume

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