Campus Selection

97%
of NSE applicants are placed
83%
of NSE applicants get their first-choice school


Start with Academic, Personal, and Experiential Fit

As you explore NSE campuses, think beyond individual courses and consider the full academic and personal experience. Review each campus with an eye toward:

  • Your major, minor, or academic interests

  • Courses that may fulfill degree requirements

  • Unique programs or learning opportunities not available at the University of Minnesota

  • Location, campus culture, and student life

  • Opportunities such as internships, undergraduate research, field study, or other experiential learning

Many NSE campuses offer ways to learn beyond the classroom, allowing you to tailor your exchange to your academic, professional, and personal goals. These opportunities are listed on individual campus profiles.

Ask yourself where you can see yourself living, learning, and thriving for a semester or year.


How to Improve Your Chances of Placement

When applying to NSE, students may list up to four campuses. To maximize your chances of placement:

  • Select at least three campuses

  • Include 1–3 alternate choices in addition to your first choice

  • Consider choosing at least one “OPEN” campus on your selected payment plan (Home or Host)

Only list campuses you are genuinely willing to attend. Strong backup options help ensure placement if your first-choice campus is unavailable or highly competitive.


Understanding Campus Availability

Each NSE campus sets its own exchange policies, which may include additional requirements, preferences, or balance restrictions.
OPEN campuses do not have balance restrictions and typically offer greater placement flexibility.

Personal accomplishments such as GPA generally do not affect placement, unless required for eligibility by a specific campus. Be sure to review the Chance of Acceptance section on each campus profile before finalizing your choices.

Explore campus availability and profiles


Need Help Choosing Campuses?

Your UMN NSE Coordinator can help you understand placement trends, evaluate competitiveness, and build a strong list of first-choice and backup campuses.

📧 Email: [email protected]