OIEP Data Request FAQs
Welcome to the OIEP Data Request page. Before submitting a data request, please review the following information to ensure your request is complete and aligned with OIEP’s service level agreement detailed below.
What does OIEP do?
OIEP’s mission is to advance the strategic goals of George Mason University through collaborations focused on engaging partners in data-informed strategic, operational, and tactical decision-making. As part of this mission, OIEP offers consultations to support assessment and program review processes, consultation on formulating data or research related needs, and dashboard demonstrations.
OIEP ensures accuracy by using structured, multi-step processes, and proven methodologies. Our work spans both micro and macro levels of analysis to learn more about the learning experience, student success, and faculty/staff success. And we do this all with integrity that binds us to honesty, trust, pride and responsibility to produce information.
Who can submit a data request?
Before submitting a data request, visit OIEP’s Data Analytics page to access a range of dashboards and reports. Data available include student enrollment, retention and graduation rates, degrees awarded, faculty and staff employed, and survey results. If the available resources do not offer the required data, you may consider submitting a data request.
OIEP accepts requests from:
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- George Mason faculty and staff
- George Mason administrators
OIEP cannot accept requests from:
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- George Mason students
- George Mason alumni
What types of data can I request?
If you need data beyond what is available on OIEP’s dashboards, you may submit a request for review. OIEP evaluates and processes requests on a case-by-case basis. To be considered, your request should meet at least one of the following criteria:
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- Aggregate data not currently available on OIEP dashboards and aligned with the methodology used for official reporting (IPEDS, SCHEV, SACSCOC)
- Data required for statutory compliance reporting to federal or state agencies
- Requests requiring statistical analysis
- Requests that involve the compilation of data from multiple sources (e.g., National Student Clearinghouse)
Requests for row-level or sensitive data should be submitted to the Office of the University Registrar for review, approval, and processing.
What data are not available?
OIEP cannot provide the following:
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- Personally identifiable information (PII)
- Row-level student data
- Directory information
- Data protected under FERPA or other privacy laws
- Proprietary or confidential administrative data
- Real-time or transactional data
How do I submit a data request?
Submit your request via our Data Request Form linked at the bottom of this page. In your request, be sure to include:
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- Intended use and purpose of the request (e.g., research, reporting, grant application)
- Detailed description of the data needed, including a clear definition of the population, fields to be included, and level of aggregation (e.g., by department)
- Timeframe or term(s) of interest
Incomplete requests may be delayed or returned for clarification.
What is the typical turnaround time?
Turnaround time depends on request volume, staff availability, and data complexity. An OIEP team member will reach out to you within five business days to confirm and/or review details of your request and provide an anticipated completion timeframe. Below are possible timeframes, which may vary depending on the complexity of your request.
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- Standard requests: 2–3 weeks
- Complex or large requests: Estimated timeframe provided after review
- Expedited requests: Considered on a case-by-case basis
Can I request expedited processing?
We will do our best to accommodate urgent, time-sensitive requests but cannot guarantee expedited fulfillment. To be considered, your request must include a clear justification for the prioritization of your request and a requested deadline.
Are there restrictions on how I can use the data?
Yes. All data must be used in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA) and the following George Mason policies:
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- Data Stewardship (University Policy Number 1114)
- Records Management (University Policy Number 1102)
- Responsible Use of Computing (University Policy Number 1301)
- Any additional conditions specified in your data agreement
Redistribution or publication of data without permission is prohibited.
Who can I contact with questions?
Email us at [email protected]. We are happy to assist with understanding available data resources and navigating the request form process.