How will ICPSR distribute my restricted-use data?

ICPSR has a number of dissemination mechanisms for restricted-use data. For an overview of the options for accessing restricted-use data, visit our Accessing Restricted Data at ICPSR page. All of the options involve secondary users applying for the restricted data, submitting their IRB approval or exemption, and agreeing to protect the data through a number of controls outlined in a Restricted Data Use Agreement.

In most instances, documentation files associated with a data collection remain public-use even if the data files are restricted-use so that researchers can see what might be in the data files before going through the application process for the restricted files. Documentation files may include codebooks, questionnaires, user guides, or other supporting documentation prepared for use with the study.