How do I pay for NSE?

One of the most common questions we hear is, "How do I pay for NSE?" or "Isn't study away too expensive?" We are here to share that with careful planning, NSE can be financially accessible. 

Initial costs

You can meet with any of our staff here on campus as much as you need to prior to applying for exchange. We are here to support you while deciding if NSE is a good fit for your academic, professional, and personal goals.

The first time you will be charged for a NSE cost is after completing the application and interview process. After completing the NSE interview with ISU coordinators, a $250 non-refundable program fee will be charged to your ISU u-bill.

Once you are placed on NSE, charges will begin to apply to either your ISU or host campus u-bill for tuition & fees, housing, programming, and/or other misc. fees. Financial information including campus budgets can be found on the "Tuition/Fees" tab of every unique Campus Profile on nse.org. 

You can also use a budget planning resource as preparation. 

Payment plans

The payment plans for tuition and fees on National Student Exchange are straightforward. As part of the application process, you have the option to select your preferred payment plan. Placement on payment plan depends on the availability at the host institution. The ISU NSE coordinators make the final determination on payment plan submitted on the application.

  • Home Pay: Pay your current Iowa State tuition rates (in-state or out-of state, depending on your residency)
  • Host Pay: Pay the in-state tuition rates of the host campus

Financial aid

One of the most valuable components of NSE is the availability of ISU, federal, and most state-based financial aid on exchange. That means your scholarships, grants, and/or loans are eligible to help you pay for the exchange. Other opportunities are included below. 

  • ISU students with demonstrated financial need and/or Pell Grant eligibility on their financial aid award can apply for:
    • The Pilar A. Garcia Student Achievement Award through the Division of Student Affairs. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, and may cover up to $1,000 of associated costs. 
    • NSE Application Fee Scholarship: A NSE application fee scholarship is available through NSE during the Priority Placement cycle. If awarded, the application fee is covered for the student. To find out more and apply, contact our office at nse@iastate.edu or stop by 1080 Hixson-Lied.
  • The Killam Fellowships Program through the U.S. Department of State provides financial support for students exchanging from the U.S. to select Canadian universities. There are several Canadian universities that are members of the NSE consortium. 

We strongly recommend that you meet with an ISU Financial Aid advisor to review your unique aid package as part of your preparation for exchange.