National Student Exchange (NSE)
What is NSE?
Established in 1968, the National Student Exchange (NSE) is a unique, non-profit consortium of approximately 200 accredited, baccalaureate-granting colleges and universities in the United States, Canada, Guam, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Through NSE, Winthrop students can study for a semester or a year at participating institutions of higher education in the U.S., Canada, Guam, Puerto Rico, or the U.S. Virgin Islands. NSE provides an opportunity for students to discover another part of the U.S. (or nearby) and is another great option for Winthrop students interested in exploring locations closer to home. Winthrop has been a participating member of NSE since 1980. As indicated in the information below, please note that the Winthrop deadline for applying to participate in the National Student Exchange is February 1 each year (for semester or year-long study the following academic year).
Qualifications
The minimum requirements for application are:
- Full-time Winthrop student
- Cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher
- Sophomore or Junior status during NSE exchange
Campus Selection
Review the participating universities and colleges. Familiarize yourself with the various universities' course offerings and geographic and cultural characteristics. The best resource on any institution is its catalog (available through the NSE website). Choose several schools since you will enter at least three choices on your application. For information including university location, climate, population and cultural attractions, visit the host school website and search for host city facts.
Course Credit
Prior to departing for NSE, you will work with your advisor to complete an Approval to Transfer Credit Form which assures that your NSE coursework transfers back to Winthrop. You must receive a "C" or above in order for the credits to be transferred. Grades received while on exchange are not computed into your cumulative GPA, but are counted towards scholarship eligibility and honors designation at graduation.
Costs
Students pay regular Winthrop tuition; room and board charges are billed to the student by the NSE host institution. Financial aid can be used for NSE. Transportation is the responsibility of the student.
Student Placements
Applications are available year-round but they are ALWAYS due by Feb. 1st prior to the academic year you wish to exchange (regardless of whether you want to go for fall, spring, or the full year). Your placement will be negotiated by the NSE Coordinator at the annual NSE Placement Conference in early March.
Prospective NSE students should explore the NSE website and all its resources. http://www.nse.org
For more information, contact The Study Abroad Office at 803/323-3451 or email the study abroad staff at studyabroad@winthrop.edu
