Academic Advising Topical Module (2025)
Copyright © 2025 Trustees of Indiana University
This module, updated for NSSE 2025, examines students' experiences with academic advising and advising practices that reflect NACADA core values. It also asks students to identify who has been most helpful. The module complements a question on the core survey about the quality of students' interactions with academic advisors.
1. To what extent have the following been helpful regarding your academic interests, course selections, academic performance, or future plans?
Response options: Very much, Quite a bit, Some, Very little, Did not meet with, N/A
a. Academic advisor, faculty, or staff assigned to advise you
b. Academic advisor(s) available to any student
c. Faculty or instructor(s) not assigned to advise you
d. Online advising system (degree progress report, etc.)
e. Website, chatbot, catalog, or other published sources
f. Student services staff (learning and academic support, cultural centers, etc)
g. Career services
h. TRIO Programs staff
i. Disability or accessibility services staff
j. Success or academic coach
k. Peer advisor or mentor
l. Friends or other students
m. Family members
n. Other, please specify: [text box]
2. Do you know how to contact (in person, email, phone, or online) an advisor at your institution?
Response options: Yes, No, Unsure
3. Thinking about academic advising, how much have people and resources at your institution done the following?
Response options: Very much, Quite a bit, Some, Very little, Not at all, N/A
a. Been available when needed
b. Provided prompt and accurate information
c. Provided information about learning support services (tutoring, writing center, success skills, etc.)
d. Notified you of important policies and deadlines
e. Reached out to you about your academic progress or performance
f. Followed up with you regarding something they recommended
4. Thinking about academic advising, about how often did someone at your institution discuss the following with you?
Response options: Very often, Often, Sometimes, Never, Not applicable
a. Took time to learn about your hobbies and personal interests
b. Actively listened to your concerns
c. Respected your identities and cultures
d. Cared about your overall well-being
5. Thinking about academic advising, about how often did someone at your institution disucss the following with you?
Response options: Very much, Often, Sometimes, Never, Not applicable
a. Your academic goals and future plans
b. How your major or expected major relates to your personal, academic, career, or future plans
c. Special opportunities (study abroad, internship, service-learning, research, etc.)
d. Participation in co-curricular activities (organizations or clubs, performing arts, sports, etc.)
e. Resources for your well-being (health, counseling, financial guidance, etc.)
6. Overall, how much have people and resources at your institution supported you in the following?
Response options: Very much, Quite a bit, Some, Very little, Not at all, N/A
a. Wellness support services (mental health counseling, student health center, etc.)
b. Academic success
c. Career advising
d. Emotional and physical health
e. Basic needs (e.g., housing, food)
f. Social support (e.g., building connections, community, and friendships)
7. Regarding academic advising, who has been the most helpful and in what way? [text box]