PostsecData Commends Proposed IPEDS Changes, Offers Recommendations for Further Improvement
Published May 03, 2024
Washington, DC (May 3, 2024) – Twenty three members and partners of the Postsecondary Data Collaborative joined the Institute for Higher Education Policy in commending the U.S. Department of Education’s (ED) proposed improvements to the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). These changes will enhance data transparency, streamline reporting, and better serve students, institutions, and policymakers. PostsecData highlights its support for specific proposals, including:
- Cost Survey: Combining financial data into a single survey will simplify reporting and improve accessibility.
- Disaggregation of Admissions Data: New reporting categories will enable critical research on equity in college admissions.
The letter also offers recommendations for further improvements:
- Collect Financial Aid Data on More Student Groups: Understanding financial aid use among part-time, non-first-time, and graduate students is crucial.
- Align Cost of Attendance Measure with the FAFSA Simplification Act: Data should reflect the latest legislative requirements.
- Engage Stakeholders on Race and Ethnicity Reporting: Collaboration is needed to implement new federal guidelines effectively.
- Consider How to Implement Inclusive Approaches to Collecting Data on Students with Disabilities: Data on enrollment and outcomes would inform equitable initiatives.
Read the full letter.
