Data are reviewed by the Help Desk and migrated to the Peer Analysis System (PAS). Data are safely
migrated using a process called "perturbation," which NCES uses to protect the confidentiality of individuals
in the IPEDS data system.
Non-responses are noted and files are "imputed." In some cases, data for an entire survey are imputed;
in other cases, partial imputation is performed when sections or single data items are not completed.
Imputation is a method of "filling in the blanks" for institutions that do not submit data to IPEDS. Several
methods of imputation are applied to the IPEDS data, including "carry forward," "nearest neighbor," "group
median, " and/or "ratio adjustment." These methods are fully explained in the methodology section of any IPEDS
First Look report, which can be accessed through the homepage at http://nces.ed.gov/ipeds.
Data tables are generated and publications are produced for review and release.
The IPEDS data tool for students and parents, the College Navigator, is updated with the
most current data.
