The purposes for which we exist are:

• to provide inter-institutional exchange/study opportunities among colleges and universities at reasonable cost whereby students may grow academically and personally as well as develop a greater appreciation for the diversity of our country and our culture.
• to provide a network of colleges and universities whereby students may have access to resources otherwise not available, thus expanding the resources of any single institution.

The values that guide us are:

• excellence in our performance
• sensitivity and respect for the diverse needs of our students, coordinators, and member institutions
• cooperation and service in all we do

The National Student Exchange will be recognized as the premier network of U.S. colleges and universities whose primary service is to students. Institutions will seek membership in order access both the services of NSE and the resources of the entire network. NSE will be identified as America's Higher Education Network and the model for higher education networking world-wide.

Through NSE, member campuses will build cooperative programs that will make access and quality the hallmarks of their memberships.

The position of NSE coordinator will be respected and recognized nationally for the quality training and experience it provides.