National Student Exchange

Studying away will help you develop confidence, independence and discipline - and it will enlarge your network. With nearly 200 participating colleges to choose from, you'll earn credit toward your degree while paying OU tuition as an out-of-state student. Other highlights include:

• Provides a larger perspective on the American experience
• One semester, one quarter, two quarters or full academic year options
• Language of instruction is routinely English, with exception of Puerto Rico and Quebec
• Courses offered in all disciplines at all levels in a familiar educational style
• Access to programs and courses not available at OU

1. Use the Apply Now button above to create an account.
2. Meet with an academic adviser to lay out a one-, two- or three-year study plan integrating your time on exchange in order to determine what courses you will need to take while on exchange. (Ask your adviser for tips of host institutions while you are there!)
3. Browse the participating campuses on the National Student Exchange website. Click on the “Find a Campus” page for Home Pay programs by state. Read the information about the potential host institutions carefully including their academic calendar, additional fees, minimum GPA requirement, housing availability and costs, and programs offered.
4. Consult with the International Education NSE Coordinator to find out the past history of acceptances for the host institutions you are interested in and to determine your chances of being accepted.
5. While logged in to your account, use the search function to find the NSE program. Click on Search Programs, search by country: select “United States.” Find the NSE program and click where it says “Apply.” This will load into your file the application materials that need to be completed. Complete the forms and send out the references. 
6. Once you have completed the application materials, you will meet with the NSE Coordinator for an informal interview to make sure that everyone feels comfortable with your plans and with your likelihood of success on exchange.
7. Upon approval after the interview, the director will give you a form to make your $350 non-refundable deposit in the cashier’s office. The deposit will be applied to your tuition when you go on exchange; it will be refunded if you are not successfully placed. It will be held if you are placed but do not participate.
8. Upon receipt of the deposit, the NSE Coordinator will submit your materials for placement at the annual placement conference, March 5 and 6, 2025. You will be notified immediately by email if you are or are not placed for an exchange.

With an array of more than 130 bachelor's degrees, more than 2,000 students who live on campus, more than 200 student organizations, and a bustling city center in our back yard, the possibilities are endless at Oakland University.

OU's campus is nestled perfectly in the heart of Rochester, which was named one of the nation's top 10 places for lifelong learning by the U.S. News and World Report. With OU's small class sizes and numerous activities to keep you busy outside of the classroom, making the most of your academic and personal experience won't be shy of extraordinary.

Check out OU Undergraduate Admissions for more about academics and campus life.

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