Our response to the Office for Students' consultation on Data Futures and data collection

The OfS' proposed approaches all have their strengths and drawbacks, but we support the approach which meets the need for in-year data collection and allows universities to build on previously planned changes to data collection that universities have been preparing for (Approach 1).

Key points

Our response also notes that:

• We recognise the need for up-to-date data, so providers and the OfS can make prompt decisions about their practice. 

• Removing data fields does not necessarily reduce burden, as universities also gather much of this information for internal purposes, and it is valuable for data users to access a national data set on some fields such as entry qualifications and financial support. 

• The higher education sector should be consulted on any future changes to staff data to account for any unintended consequences of changes which are made. 

• Where possible, we want consistency between England and the devolved administrations in data practices to minimise burden when working with students from across the UK. 

• We welcome proposals to explore use of third-party data where this can reduce burden and add value, but it’s important that there is engagement with the higher education sector to ensure this meets their needs.