Institutional Characteristics Header (IC Header)

Survey Component Overview

The IPEDS Institutional Characteristics Header (IC Header) survey component is the starting point for the annual cycle of IPEDS reporting and must be locked before any other survey components can be started. IC Header was first introduced during the 2010-11 IPEDS cycle and includes questions that were previously found in the Institutional Characteristics (IC) survey component. IC Header collects basic institutional data, including: Educational Offerings; Institutional Control and Affiliation; Award Levels; Calendar System; Enrollment Levels Offered (excluding Estimated Fall Enrollment); Cohort questions; and more.

Responses to the IC Header survey component determine the applicability and versions of the remaining IPEDS survey components. Therefore, IPEDS Keyholders will find it helpful to have this information in the data collection system as early as possible. Much of the basic information about an institution that is displayed on the College Navigator website comes from the IC Header component.

Data Collection Period

August 9, 2023 – October 18, 2023 for IPEDS Keyholders
August 9, 2023 – November 1, 2023 for IPEDS Coordinators

NOTE: Institutions are encouraged, but not required, to complete the IC-Header component during the Keyholder Registration Period. IC Header must be locked before any other survey components can be started.