Item sets for your NSSE Shorts administration are drawn from the NSSE Topical Modules and the core survey. The registration form enables you to customize your survey by selecting one or more item sets. Additionally, you have the option to create multiple surveys. The link for each item set displays the questions and codebook.

NEW 2026 - Student Background 1 updated the item "What is your class level?" to include responses from graduate students. However, it is the responsibility of each campus to determine which item sets are appropriate for their graduate students. Some item sets are not recommended for graduate students. See notes in codebook.

Topical Module Item Sets

The available NSSE Shorts item sets include the following Topical Modules:

Additional NSSE Item Sets

In addition to the item sets based on Topical Modules, NSSE Shorts offers two more options as well as demographic items:

Generative AI Use & Perceptions

Perceived Gains in Learning and Development

Student Background 1

Student Background 2

Note: Class level has been updated in the Student Background 1 item set to include graduate students. Not all item sets are appropriate for graduate students.