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IPEDS Resource Center

Welcome to the IPEDS Resource Center. Here you can find useful information on the IPEDS for data providers and users and access resources such as the Race/Ethnicity Information Center, Archived Survey Forms, and the Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP).

Survey Components and the Data Collection and Dissemination Cycle

IPEDS consists of eight interrelated survey components that are collected over three collection periods (Fall, Winter, and Spring) each year.

More Information Go to More Information on Survey Components and Data Cycle

Survey Instrument Archive

The Archived Survey Library is intended to be a helpful reference and resource area for IPEDS respondents and data users to see how the data items collected have changed over the years. For each survey component, in each data collection year, there is a PDF file. From 1994 to 1999, the original paper forms are shown and for years after 1999—when IPEDS became a web-based data collection tool—the actual survey screens used in the online tool are shown.

More Information Go to the Archived Survey Library

Statutory Requirements For Reporting IPEDS Data

The completion of all IPEDS surveys is mandatory for all institutions that participate in or are applicants for participation in any federal financial assistance program authorized by Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended.

More Information Go to the Detailed Statutory Requirements

Race/Ethnicity Information Center

IPEDS will adopt new aggregate categories for reporting race/ethnicity data in accordance with the final guidance issued by the U.S. Department of Education on October 19, 2007. The resources available in the info center assist institutions and state agencies with the transition to the new race and ethnicity categories.

More Information Go to the Race/Ethnicity Information Center

Data Tip Sheets and FAQs

Here you can find resources such as tip sheets and frequently asked questions that will assist you in reporting and using IPEDS data. In addition, it provides access the IPEDS glossary and Data Center User Manual.

More Information Go to Data Tip Sheets and FAQs

Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP)

The CIP is a taxonomic coding scheme that contains titles and descriptions of primarily postsecondary instructional programs. It was developed to facilitate NCES’ collection and reporting of postsecondary degree completions by major field of study using standard classifications that capture the majority of reportable program activity.

More Information Go to More Information on the CIP

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