Ed Dept Updates Private School Survey – Data Drudgery Ahead
Published Date: 9/16/2026
Notice
Summary
The Department of Education is updating its Private School Universe Survey for the 2025-26 and 2027-28 school years to keep data accurate and useful. Private schools and related organizations will be involved in providing updated info, helping the government understand private education better. Comments on these changes are welcome until October 16, 2026, with no major cost changes expected.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Change in confidentiality assurances
As of May 2025, NCES removed the Foundations of Evidence-Based Policymaking Act (CIPSEA) confidentiality assurance for the 2025-26 PSS; confidentiality protections under the Education Sciences Reform Act (ESRA) remain in effect. NCES may consider restoring CIPSEA protections for future PSS collections.
Survey respondent time burden
You may be asked to respond to the Private School Universe Survey. NCES estimates 32,550 annual responses and a total of 5,981 annual burden hours for this collection, and participation is voluntary.
Participation is voluntary
Responding to the Private School Universe Survey is voluntary for individuals and households. The notice reiterates that respondents are not legally required to participate.
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Key Dates
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