Appendix C Communication Materials

Shape2 Shape1

Ted Socha

B&B Project Officer (NCES)

202-245-7071

Jennifer Wine, Ph.D.

B&B Project Director (RTI)

877-225-8470

Draft Website Text

HOME PAGE:

Welcome to the 2008/18 Baccalaureate and Beyond Longitudinal Study (B&B:08/18) Field Test

GET STARTED!

Study ID:

Password:

□ Show me what I’ve typed

Need your Study ID number or password? (hyperlink)

Paperwork Reduction Act:
All of the information you provide may be used only for statistical purposes and may not be disclosed, or used, in identifiable form for any other purpose except as required by law (20 U.S.C. §9573 and 6 U.S.C. §151).

According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, no persons are required to respond to a collection of information unless it displays a valid OMB control number. The valid OMB control number for this voluntary information collection is 1850-0729. The time required to complete this information collection is estimated to average approximately 45 minutes per response, including the time to review instructions, gather the data needed, and complete and review the information collection. If you have any comments concerning the accuracy of the time estimate, suggestions for improving this survey, or any comments or concerns regarding the status of your individual submission of this survey, please write directly to: The 2008/18 Baccalaureate and Beyond Longitudinal Study (B&B:08/18), National Center for Education Statistics, Potomac Center Plaza, 550 12^th St., SW, 4^th floor, Washington, DC 20202. OMB Clearance No: 1850-0729. Expiration Date: x/xx/xxxx.

UPDATE CONTACT INFO

Click on the fields below to enter the information

Study ID

First Name

Middle Name

Last Name

Suffix (drop-down)

Former Name

Address is an international address (check box)

Address

Address Line 2

City Select State (drop-down) Zip Code

Email Address

Secondary Email Address

Would you like us to send you a text message reminder about participating in the survey?

(Please note: standard text messaging rates may apply.)

Yes

CONTACT US

If you need assistance accessing the web survey or wish to complete the survey by phone, call the B&B Help Desk:

1-877-262-4440

[email protected]

Help Desk staff is available at the following times to assist you:

Monday-Thursday	9:00 a.m. – Midnight
Friday	9:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Saturday	9:30 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Sunday	1:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.

All times are Eastern Time (ET).

Who should I contact if I have additional questions or concerns?

B&B project staff is available to respond to your questions Monday through Friday between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. ET.

B&B Staff

RTI Project Director	Jennifer Wine, Ph.D.
	[email protected]
	877-225-8470
NCES Project Officer	Ted Socha
	[email protected]
	1-202-245-7071

WHAT TO EXPECT

How can I complete the B&B survey?

You may complete the B&B survey on the Web – simply log in from the home page by entering your Study ID number and password, which are provided in the B&B letter or e-mail you received. You can even complete it on your mobile device. If you need assistance accessing the survey on the website, or if you want to complete the survey by telephone, contact the B&B Help Desk by calling 1-877-262-4440 or sending an e-mail to [email protected].

How long will the survey take?

For most people, we expect the survey will take about 45 minutes, on average, but could take more or less time depending on your answers. You do not need to complete the survey in one session. You can get started and, if you choose, you can easily log out and resume at a later time. If you are asked to provide a résumé, the time to submit the résumé is estimated to average 10 minutes, including time to locate your file, review it, and load it to the website.

Do I have to participate?

Participation in this study is voluntary; however, your involvement is very important to the success of this study. By participating, you have the opportunity to help policymakers, researchers, and others better understand the experiences of bachelor’s degree recipients.

Can I refuse to answer a question?

You may refuse to answer any question at any time. If you choose not to answer or are unable to answer a particular question, you may still continue with the rest of the survey.

How do I know your website is secure?

The B&B website is protected by Secure Sockets Layer (SSL; 128-bit encryption) technology. Your survey responses are collected over a secure server that is also protected by SSL.

Should I use a particular web browser to take the web survey?

To run the survey, your browser needs to support HTML5 and JavaScript, so the latest versions of Firefox, Chrome, or Safari will work, as will Internet Explorer 9 and later. If you are having any trouble completing the survey, please call our Help Desk at 1-877-262-4440 and we will be happy to assist you.

PREVIOUS RESULTS

YOUR PARTICIPATION COUNTS!

Data collected from B&B will help researchers and policymakers better understand how earning a bachelor’s degree impacts choices for additional education and employment paths. As with all prior B&B studies, results will be presented in summary form only; no individual results will be published.

HERE ARE A FEW THINGS WE’VE LEARNED FROM B&B STUDIES…

The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) has conducted only one previous 10-year follow-up with baccalaureate graduates – the Class of ’93 was surveyed in 2003 as part of B&B:93/03.

Within 10 years of completing a bachelor’s degree, 25 percent of 1992–93 bachelor’s degree recipients obtained an occupational license and 30 percent obtained a professional certification.

In 2003, 45 percent of 1992-93 graduates had participated in work-related training and 18 percent had taken personal enrichment classes in the prior year.

CONFIDENTIALITY

The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) is required to follow strict procedures to protect personal information in the collection, reporting, and publication of data. All of the information you provide may be used only for statistical purposes and may not be disclosed, or used, in identifiable form for any other purpose except as required by law (20 U.S.C. §9573 and 6 U.S.C. §151).

Data security procedures for B&B are reviewed and approved by NCES data security staff. Your answers are secured behind firewalls and are encrypted during internet transmission using Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) protocol. All data entry modules are password protected and require the user to log in before accessing any data. Project staff members are subject to large fines or imprisonment if they knowingly publish or communicate any individually identifiable information.

Congress has authorized the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) of the U.S. Department of Education’s Institute of Education Sciences to collect data about the costs of postsecondary education because policymakers at all levels need reliable and current national data in order to make decisions about postsecondary education.

NCES is authorized to conduct the 2008/18 Baccalaureate and Beyond Longitudinal Study by the Education Sciences Reform Act of 2002 (ESRA 2002, 20 U.S.C. §9543) and to collect students’ education records from educational agencies or institutions for the purposes of evaluating federally supported education programs under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA, 34 CFR §§ 99.31(a)(3) and 99.35).

The study has been approved by the U.S. Office of Management and Budget (OMB). The valid OMB control number for this voluntary information collection is 1850-0729. The expiration date is xx/xx/xxxx.

ABOUT B&B

The Baccalaureate and Beyond Longitudinal Study (B&B) Field Test (B&B:08/18) is a national study of approximately 1,600 graduates from U.S. colleges and universities who will be asked about their experiences since completing a bachelor’s degree.

The study will collect information on graduate and other education, experiences in the labor market, earnings and expenses, family status, and personal and professional goals. In addition to survey responses, we collect related information from sources such as student loan and enrollment databases. There is a particular focus on careers in teaching and other employment outcomes.

B&B:08/18 is the third follow-up survey from a cohort of students who completed their bachelor’s degree requirements during the 2006-07 academic year. Most study participants were first surveyed in 2007 as part of the National Postsecondary Student Aid Study (NPSAS).

B&B:08/18 is conducted by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), in the U.S. Department of Education’s Institute of Education Sciences, with data collection being carried out under contract by RTI International, a nonprofit research organization based in North Carolina.

Initial Contact Letter

«date»

«fname» «mname» «lname» «suffix» Study ID: «caseid»

«addr1»

«addr2»

«city», «state» «zip» «zip4»

Dear «fname» «lname»:

You have been selected to participate in the third round of the Baccalaureate and Beyond Longitudinal Study (B&B), conducted by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) in the U.S. Department of Education’s Institute of Education Sciences. B&B is interested in your personal experience since you graduated from college during the 2006–07 school year. Data collected from B&B will help researchers and policymakers better understand how earning a bachelor’s degree in majors such as «[major]» impacts choices for additional education and employment paths.

B&B begins in July of 2017. At that time, you will receive a letter in a large white envelope that will provide specific information about how to participate. I am writing in advance because many people like to know ahead of time that they will be asked to participate in a survey. I hope that you will take the time to help us. To say thanks, you will receive $«IncAmt» when you complete the survey.

NCES has contracted with RTI International to collect data for B&B on its behalf. The enclosed brochure provides a brief description of B&B, findings from past studies, and a summary of our confidentiality procedures. If you have additional questions or concerns about the study after reviewing this material, please call the RTI study director, Jennifer Wine at 1-877-225-8470.

We thank you in advance for your participation in this important study.

Sincerely,

Signature

National Center for Education Statistics

The 2008/18 Baccalaureate and Beyond Longitudinal Study (B&B:08/18) is conducted by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Under contract with NCES, RTI International, a U.S.-based nonprofit research organization, administers B&B:08/18 on behalf of NCES. NCES is authorized to conduct B&B:08/18 by the Education Sciences Reform Act of 2002 (ESRA, 20 U.S.C. §9543) and to collect students’ education records from education agencies or institutions for the purposes of evaluating federally supported education programs under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA, 34 CFR §§ 99.31(a)(3) and 99.35). All of the information you provide may be used only for statistical purposes and may not be disclosed, or used, in identifiable form for any other purpose except as required by law (20 U.S.C. §9573 and 6 U.S.C. §151).

According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, no persons are required to respond to a collection of information unless it displays a valid OMB control number. The valid OMB control number for this voluntary information collection is 1850-0729. The time required to complete this information collection is estimated to average approximately <<time>> minutes per response, including the time to review instructions, gather the data needed, and complete and review the information collection. If you have any comments concerning the accuracy of the time estimate, suggestions for improving this survey, or any comments or concerns regarding the status of your individual submission of this survey, please write directly to: The 2008/18 Baccalaureate and Beyond Longitudinal Study, National Center for Education Statistics, Potomac Center Plaza, 550 12^th St, SW, Room 4004, Washington, DC 20202.

Data Collection Announcement Letter

«date»

«fname» «mname» «lname» «suffix» Study ID: «caseid»

«addr1»

«addr2»

«city», «state» «zip» «zip4»

Dear «fname» «lname»:

Data collection for the Baccalaureate and Beyond Longitudinal Study (B&B) is now underway. B&B is interested in understanding how earning a bachelor’s degree «in [major]» impacted your choices about further education and work since graduating from college during the 2006–07 school year.

To complete the survey, log on to our secure website at https://surveys.nces.ed.gov/bb/ using the credentials provided below. (The password is case sensitive; you will need to enter it exactly as it appears here.)

Study ID = «caseid»

Password = «password»

The survey will take about «time» minutes to complete and you will receive $«IncAmt» via check or PayPal as a thank you for your participation. Having your résumé or curriculum vitae handy will help you complete the survey more easily.

The enclosed brochure answers many common questions about the study and contains additional information on laws and procedures that protect the confidentiality of your responses. Data security procedures for B&B are reviewed and approved by NCES data security staff. Your responses will be secured behind firewalls and will be encrypted during internet transmission. All of the information you provide may be used only for statistical purposes and may not be disclosed, or used, in identifiable form for any other purpose except as required by law (20 U.S.C. §9573 and 6 U.S.C. §151).

If you have questions or problems completing your survey online, or prefer to complete the survey over the telephone, simply call the B&B Help Desk at 1-877-262-4440. You can learn more about B&B on our study website, https://surveys.nces.ed.gov/bb/. For other questions or concerns about the study, please contact the B&B Project Director, Jennifer Wine at 1-877-225-8470, [email protected], or the NCES Project Officer, Ted Socha, at 1-202-245-7071, [email protected].

Your participation, while voluntary, is critical to the study’s success. We hope you enjoy the opportunity to share your experiences.

Many thanks,

Ted Jennifer

Ted Socha Jennifer Wine, Ph.D.

Project Officer, B&B:08/18 Project Director, B&B:08/18

National Center for Education Statistics RTI International

202-245-7071 877-225-8470

According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, no persons are required to respond to a collection of information unless it displays a valid OMB control number. The valid OMB control number for this voluntary information collection is 1850-0729. The time required to complete this information collection is estimated to average approximately <<time>> minutes per response, including the time to review instructions, gather the data needed, and complete and review the information collection. If you have any comments concerning the accuracy of the time estimate, suggestions for improving this survey, or any comments or concerns regarding the status of your individual submission of this survey, please write directly to: The 2008/18 Baccalaureate and Beyond Longitudinal Study, National Center for Education Statistics, Potomac Center Plaza, 550 12^th St, SW, Room 4004, Washington, DC 20202.

Mini Survey Letter

«date»

«fname» «mname» «lname» «suffix» Study ID: «caseid»

«addr1»

«addr2»

«city», «state» «zip» «zip4»

Dear «fname»:

Participating in B&B is easier than ever! The survey is now only 10 easy questions which will only take 5 minutes of your time. As a thank you for participating, you’ll receive $20 payable by PayPal or check.

[INSERT MERGE FIELD FROM TABLE – HARD COPY EXPERIMENT, BELOW]

You were selected to represent many other students with similar backgrounds and «[major]» degrees. No one else can replace you. I hope that you will participate in the study, especially now that the survey takes only 5 minutes!

Thank you in advance for making B&B a success.

Ted Jennifer

Ted Socha Jennifer Wine, Ph.D.

Project Officer, B&B:08/18 Project Director, B&B:08/18

National Center for Education Statistics RTI International

202-245-7071 877-225-8470

MERGE FIELD OPTIONS – HARD COPY EXPERIMENT

Hard Copy Letter – Selected	Simply complete the enclosed questionnaire and return it to us in the business reply envelope we have provided for you. Or visit https://surveys.nces.ed.gov/bb/ to complete the survey online. Study ID = «caseid» Password = «password» You can also call 1-877-262-4440 to get more information about B&B or to complete the survey by phone.
Hard Copy Letter – Not selected	You can complete the survey by logging on to our secure website at https://surveys.nces.ed.gov/bb/ using the credentials provided below. (The password is case sensitive; you will need to enter it exactly as it appears here.) Study ID = «caseid» Password = «password» You can also call 1-877-262-4440 to get more information about B&B or to complete the survey by phone.

According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, no persons are required to respond to a collection of information unless it displays a valid OMB control number. The valid OMB control number for this voluntary information collection is 1850-0729. The time required to complete this information collection is estimated to average approximately <<time>> minutes per response, including the time to review instructions, gather the data needed, and complete and review the information collection. If you have any comments concerning the accuracy of the time estimate, suggestions for improving this survey, or any comments or concerns regarding the status of your individual submission of this survey, please write directly to: The 2008/18 Baccalaureate and Beyond Longitudinal Study, National Center for Education Statistics, Potomac Center Plaza, 550 12^th St, SW, Room 4004, Washington, DC 20202.

Mini Survey Letter – Replacement Questionnaire

«date»

«fname» «mname» «lname» «suffix» Study ID: «caseid»

«addr1»

«addr2»

«city», «state» «zip» «zip4»

Dear «fname»:

About <two weeks> ago, we sent you a request asking you to share your experiences as a college graduate by answering only 10 easy questions. We have not yet received your responses. B&B will only take 5 minutes of your time and you’ll receive $20, payable by PayPal or check as a thank you.

[INSERT MERGE FIELD FROM TABLE – HARD COPY EXPERIMENT, BELOW]

I hope that you will participate in the study! Thank you so much for your help in making B&B a success.

Ted Jennifer

Ted Socha Jennifer Wine, Ph.D.

Project Officer, B&B:08/18 Project Director, B&B:08/18

National Center for Education Statistics RTI International

202-245-7071 877-225-8470

MERGE FIELD OPTIONS – HARD COPY EXPERIMENT

Hard Copy Letter – Selected	We are writing again because of the importance that your responses have for helping us to obtain accurate results. Simply complete the enclosed questionnaire and return it to us in the business reply envelope we have provided for you. Or visit https://surveys.nces.ed.gov/bb/ to complete the survey online. Study ID = «caseid» Password = «password» You can also call 1-877-262-4440 to get more information about B&B or to complete the survey by phone.
Hard Copy Letter – Not selected	We are writing again because of the importance that your responses have for helping us to obtain accurate results. You can complete the survey by logging on to our secure website at https://surveys.nces.ed.gov/bb/ using the credentials provided below. (The password is case sensitive; you will need to enter it exactly as it appears here.) Study ID = «caseid» Password = «password» You can also call 1-877-262-4440 to get more information about B&B or to complete the survey by phone.

According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, no persons are required to respond to a collection of information unless it displays a valid OMB control number. The valid OMB control number for this voluntary information collection is 1850-0729. The time required to complete this information collection is estimated to average approximately <<time>> minutes per response, including the time to review instructions, gather the data needed, and complete and review the information collection. If you have any comments concerning the accuracy of the time estimate, suggestions for improving this survey, or any comments or concerns regarding the status of your individual submission of this survey, please write directly to: The 2008/18 Baccalaureate and Beyond Longitudinal Study, National Center for Education Statistics, Potomac Center Plaza, 550 12^th St, SW, Room 4004, Washington, DC 20202.

Reminder Postcard 1

Reminder Postcard 2

Reminder Postcard 3

Reminder Postcard 4

Incentive Selection Card

(To be completed by Respondents to PAPI)

Reminder Postcard 5

Reminder Postcard 6

Initial Contact Email

SUBJECT: The 2008/18 Baccalaureate and Beyond Longitudinal Study (B&B)

Dear «fname» «lname»:

B&B begins in July. At that time, you will receive a letter in a large white envelope that will provide specific information about how to participate. I am writing in advance because many people like to know ahead of time that they will be asked to participate in a survey. I hope that you will take the time to help us. To say thanks, you will receive $«IncAmt» when you complete the survey.

We thank you in advance for your participation in this important study.

Sincerely,

Signature

National Center for Education Statistics

OMB Control Number: 1850-0729

Learn more about our confidentiality procedures at https://surveys.nces.ed.gov/bb/confidentiality.aspx

Data Collection Announcement Email

SUBJECT: The 2008/18 Baccalaureate and Beyond Study (B&B)

Dear «fname» «lname»:

Study ID = «caseid»

Password = «password»

The survey will take about «time» minutes to complete and you will receive $«IncAmt» via check or PayPal as a thank you for your participation. Having your résumé or curriculum vitae handy will help you complete the survey more easily.

If you have questions or problems completing your survey online, or prefer to complete the survey over the telephone, simply call the B&B Help Desk at 1-877-262-4440. You can learn more about B&B on our study website, https://surveys.nces.ed.gov/bb/. For other questions or concerns about the study, please contact the B&B Project Director, Jennifer Wine at 1-877-225-8470, [email protected], or the NCES Project Officer, Ted Socha, at 1-202-245-7071, [email protected].

Your participation, while voluntary, is critical to the study’s success. We hope you enjoy the opportunity to share your experiences.

Many thanks,

Ted Jennifer

Ted Socha Jennifer Wine, Ph.D.

Project Officer, B&B:08/18 Project Director, B&B:08/18

National Center for Education Statistics RTI International

202-245-7071 877-225-8470

OMB Control Number: 1850-0729

Learn more about our confidentiality procedures at https://surveys.nces.ed.gov/bb/confidentiality.aspx

Reminder Email 1

Email is part of Source and Signatory Experiment

SUBJECT: The B&B Survey Needs Your Participation

«fname», we still need you for B&B to be a success!

I noticed that you haven’t yet participated in the 2008/18 Baccalaureate and Beyond Longitudinal Study (B&B). Your participation is critical to the success of the study, and I hope that you will participate. As a reminder, you can also take the survey on your mobile device. It takes about «time» minutes, and you’ll receive $«IncAmt» for participating, payable by PayPal or check.

Just click here to start the online survey, or go to https://surveys.nces.ed.gov/bb/ and log in:

Study ID = «caseid»

Password = «password»

Or, complete the survey over the phone by calling 1-877-262-4440.

You may still have questions or concerns about B&B – and we’re here to help! I’ve provided the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about B&B below.

I’m not sure why you want to survey me. Should I participate in B&B?

Yes! B&B includes all types of students who graduated from college during the 2006–07 school year. Your participation «as a [major] major» is important to make sure that the B&B results represent all types of life experiences. No one can replace you in this study.

What if I don’t have time to complete the entire survey right now?

No problem! You can start the survey now and finish it later – you’ll pick up right where you left off.

If you have other questions, please contact the B&B Help Desk at 1-877-262-4440, or email us at [email protected].

Thank you in advance for making B&B a success.

[INSERT MERGE FIELD FROM TABLE – SOURCE AND SIGNATORY EXPERIMENT, BELOW]

OMB Control Number: 1850-0729

Learn more about our confidentiality procedures at https://surveys.nces.ed.gov/bb/confidentiality.aspx

MERGE FIELD OPTIONS – SOURCE AND SIGNATORY EXPERIMENT

From NCES

Ted Socha

Project Officer, B&B:08/18

National Center for Education Statistics

202-245-7071

From RTI

Jennifer Wine, Ph.D.

Project Director, B&B:08/18

RTI International

877-225-8470

Reminder Email 2

Email is part of Source and Signatory Experiment

SUBJECT: B&B Data Collection Continues…

…and it won’t be a success without you, «fname»!

Data collection for the 2008/18 Baccalaureate and Beyond Longitudinal Study (B&B) continues and we are interested in hearing from «[major] majors like» you! The survey – which can easily be completed on your mobile device – takes approximately «time» minutes of your time. When you complete your survey, you will receive $«IncAmt» as a token of our appreciation, payable by PayPal or check.

To access the online survey on our secure website, click here or visit https://surveys.nces.ed.gov/bb/.

Study ID = «caseid»

Password = «password»

Need help accessing the online survey? Prefer to complete the survey by telephone? Please call our Help Desk at 1-877-262-4440.

Thank you in advance for your participation in this very important study.

Sincerely,[INSERT MERGE FIELD FROM TABLE – SOURCE AND SIGNATORY EXPERIMENT, PAGE 32]

OMB Control Number: 1850-0729

Learn more about our confidentiality procedures at https://surveys.nces.ed.gov/bb/confidentiality.aspx

Reminder Email 3

Email is part of Source and Signatory Experiment

SUBJECT: Your B&B Survey is Waiting

«fname», start the B&B survey today!

We still need you to participate in the 2008/18 Baccalaureate and Beyond Longitudinal Study (B&B) for the U.S. Department of Education. Data collection for the 2008/18 Baccalaureate and Beyond Longitudinal Study (B&B) continues and we are interested in hearing from «[major] majors like» you!

It only takes about «time» minutes and, once you’ve completed the survey, you’ll receive $«IncAmt», payable by PayPal or check!

Click here to get started right away or go to https://surveys.nces.ed.gov/bb/ and log in using:

Study ID = «caseid»

Password = «password»

You can also complete the survey by phone by calling 1-877-262-4440. Find more information on the study website at https://surveys.nces.ed.gov/bb/.

Thanks! [INSERT MERGE FIELD FROM TABLE – SOURCE AND SIGNATORY EXPERIMENT, PAGE 32]

OMB Control Number: 1850-0729

Learn more about our confidentiality procedures at https://surveys.nces.ed.gov/bb/confidentiality.aspx

Reminder Email 4

Email is part of Source and Signatory Experiment

SUBJECT: Don’t Delay! Participate in B&B Today!

«Fname», we’ve been contacting you and other college graduates in «[major]» about participating in B&B!

B&B is an important study that will help policymakers understand how earning a bachelor’s degree impacts choices about further education and work.

We know that you have a lot of demands on your time, but we need your help to make sure that the study is representative - no one can replace you in this study. The survey takes only «time» minutes to complete, and we will send you $«IncAmt» (payable by PayPal or check) for doing it -- just click here to get started!

You can also log on to our secure website https://surveys.nces.ed.gov/bb/ using your study credentials:

Study ID = «caseid»

Password = «password»

Call 1-877-262-4440 to get more information about B&B or complete the survey by phone.

Thank you for considering participating in this important study. We hope you will – B&B won’t be the same without you.

Thank you! [INSERT MERGE FIELD FROM TABLE – SOURCE AND SIGNATORY EXPERIMENT, PAGE 32]

OMB Control Number: 1850-0729

Learn more about our confidentiality procedures at https://surveys.nces.ed.gov/bb/confidentiality.aspx

Reminder Email 5

Email is part of Source and Signatory Experiment

SUBJECT: B&B Needs College Graduates Like You

«fname», B&B needs your help!

B&B only takes about «time» minutes and is easy to complete, even on a mobile device. And, when you complete the survey, you’ll receive $«IncAmt», payable by PayPal or check!

To get started, just click here!

You can also log on to our secure website https://surveys.nces.ed.gov/bb/ using your study credentials:

Study ID = «caseid»

Password = «password»

You can complete the survey by phone by calling 1-877-262-4440 and find more information on the study website at https://surveys.nces.ed.gov/bb/.

We look forward to hearing from «[major] majors like» you!

[INSERT MERGE FIELD FROM TABLE – SOURCE AND SIGNATORY EXPERIMENT, PAGE 32]

OMB Control Number: 1850-0729

Learn more about our confidentiality procedures at https://surveys.nces.ed.gov/bb/confidentiality.aspx

Reminder Email 6

Email is part of Source and Signatory Experiment

SUBJECT: Only You Can Make B&B a Success

B&B is easy to complete, «fname»! You can do it on your mobile device!

The survey only takes about «time» minutes. And, when you complete the survey, you’ll receive $«IncAmt», payable by PayPal or check.

Click here to get started right away.

Use your secure login credentials to access the survey at https://surveys.nces.ed.gov/bb/

Study ID = «caseid»

Password = «password»

You can complete the survey by phone by calling 1-877-262-4440 and find more information on the study website at https://surveys.nces.ed.gov/bb/.

We look forward to hearing about your experiences since graduating from college «with your degree in [major]»!

Thanks! [INSERT MERGE FIELD FROM TABLE – SOURCE AND SIGNATORY EXPERIMENT, PAGE 32]

OMB Control Number: 1850-0729

Learn more about our confidentiality procedures at https://surveys.nces.ed.gov/bb/confidentiality.aspx

Reminder Email 7

Email is part of Source and Signatory Experiment

SUBJECT: $20 for 10 Questions - The B&B Survey Now Takes Only 5 Minutes

«fname»,

Participating in B&B is easier than ever! The survey is now only 10 easy questions which will only take 5 minutes of your time. As a thank you for participating you’ll receive $20, payable by PayPal or check.

[INSERT MERGE FIELD FROM TABLE – HARD COPY, BELOW]

Thank you in advance for making B&B a success.

[INSERT MERGE FIELD FROM TABLE – SOURCE AND SIGNATORY EXPERIMENT, PAGE 32]

OMB Control Number: 1850-0729

Learn more about our confidentiality procedures at https://surveys.nces.ed.gov/bb/confidentiality.aspx

MERGE FIELD OPTIONS – HARD COPY

Hard Copy – Selected

You may have already received a letter from us that contains a paper version of the survey. Simply complete the questionnaire and send it back to us in the return envelope that was provided.

If you did not receive a questionnaire, or if you have any questions, you can call 1-877-262-4440 to get more information about B&B or to complete the survey by phone. Or visit https://surveys.nces.ed.gov/bb/ with your Study ID = «caseid» and Password = «password» to complete the survey online.

Hard Copy – Not Selected

Just click here to start the online survey online. You can also log on to our secure website https://surveys.nces.ed.gov/bb/ using your study credentials:

Study ID = «caseid»

Password = «password»

You can call 1-877-262-4440 to get more information about B&B or to complete the survey by phone.

Reminder Email 8

Email is part of Source and Signatory Experiment

SUBJECT: Don’t Miss Out: Your B&B Survey Now Takes Only 5 Minutes to Complete

«fname», you were selected to receive a shortened B&B survey, which now only takes about 5 minutes to complete. And, you will still receive $20 for participating, payable by PayPal or check!

Participation is easy!

[INSERT MERGE FIELD FROM TABLE – HARD COPY, BELOW]

NCES has contracted with RTI International (www.rti.org/about-us) to collect data for B&B on its behalf. B&B helps researchers and policymakers understand how earning a bachelor’s degree «in [major]» impacts choices for continuing education and employment paths. We rely on graduates like you to make B&B a success! Visit the B&B home page for more information on the types of data collected and to view published results (https://nces.ed.gov/surveys/bb/).

I hope you will take the time to participate and receive your $20 token of appreciation. If you have any questions, please simply reply to this email or call me directly on my office phone at the number you see below.

Thanks -

[INSERT MERGE FIELD FROM TABLE – SOURCE AND SIGNATORY EXPERIMENT, PAGE 32]

OMB Control Number: 1850-0729

Learn more about our confidentiality procedures at https://surveys.nces.ed.gov/bb/confidentiality.aspx

MERGE FIELD OPTIONS – HARD COPY

Hard Copy – Selected

Simply complete the paper survey that we sent to you and mail it back to us in the return envelope that was provided. If you did not receive a questionnaire, or if you have any questions, you can call 1-877-262-4440 to get more information about B&B.
Just click here to start the online survey or go to https://surveys.nces.ed.gov/bb/ and log in with your credentials:

Study ID = «caseid»

Password = «password»

Or, complete the survey over the phone by calling 1-877-262-4440.

Hard Copy – Not Selected

Just click here to start the online survey or go to https://surveys.nces.ed.gov/bb/ and log in with your credentials:

Study ID = «caseid»

Password = «password»

Or, complete the survey over the phone by calling 1-877-262-4440.

Reminder Email 9

Email is part of Source and Signatory Experiment

SUBJECT LINE: Your B&B Survey Takes Only 5 Minutes to Complete

«fname», your B&B survey will take just about 5 minutes to complete – it’s only 10 questions! You will receive $20 for participating, payable by PayPal or check.

[INSERT MERGE FIELD FROM TABLE – HARD COPY, BELOW]

NCES has contracted with RTI International (www.rti.org/about-us) to collect data for B&B on its behalf. B&B helps policymakers understand how earning a bachelor’s degree «in [major]» impacts choices about further education and work.

If you have any questions about the B&B survey, feel free to reply to this email or call our Help Desk at: 1-877-262-4440.

I hope you decide to participate. We rely on college graduates like you to make B&B a success!

Sincerely,

[INSERT MERGE FIELD FROM TABLE – SOURCE AND SIGNATORY EXPERIMENT, PAGE 32]

OMB Control Number: 1850-0729

Learn more about our confidentiality procedures at https://surveys.nces.ed.gov/bb/confidentiality.aspx

MERGE FIELD OPTIONS – HARD COPY

Hard Copy – Selected

Simply complete the questionnaire that we sent you and your incentive request form and mail both back to us in the return envelope that was provided.

If you did not receive a questionnaire, or if you have any questions, you can call 1-877-262-4440 to get more information about B&B or to complete the survey by phone with one of our trained interviewers. Or visit https://surveys.nces.ed.gov/bb/ with your Study ID = «caseid» and Password = «password» to complete the survey online.

Hard Copy – Not Selected

To participate:

Just click here to start the online survey or go to https://surveys.nces.ed.gov/bb/ and log in with your credentials:

Study ID = «caseid»

Password = «password»

Or, complete the survey over the phone by calling 1-877-262-4440.

Reminder Email 10

Email is part of Source and Signatory Experiment

SUBJECT: Limited Time Left to Participate in B&B!

There are only a couple of weeks left to participate in B&B and to receive $20 for your efforts, «fname». We want to hear about your experiences since graduating from college «with your [major] degree»!

[INSERT MERGE FIELD FROM TABLE – HARD COPY, BELOW]

We hope you will decide to participate – the 2008/18 Baccalaureate and Beyond Longitudinal Study (B&B) won’t be the same without you.

Thanks!

[INSERT MERGE FIELD FROM TABLE – SOURCE AND SIGNATORY EXPERIMENT, PAGE 32]

OMB Control Number: 1850-0729

Learn more about our confidentiality procedures at https://surveys.nces.ed.gov/bb/confidentiality.aspx

MERGE FIELD OPTIONS – HARD COPY

Hard Copy – Selected

The survey takes about «time» minutes to complete, and we will send your $«IncAmt» thank you by PayPal or check for completing it! You can simply complete the paper questionnaire and your incentive request form and mail both back to us in the return envelopes provided.

Hard Copy – Not Selected

The survey takes about «time» minutes to complete, and we will send your $«IncAmt» thank you by PayPal or check for completing it -- click here to get started!

You can also log on to our secure website https://surveys.nces.ed.gov/bb/ using your study credentials:

Study ID = «caseid»

Password = «password»

Or, you can call 1-877-262-4440 to get more information about B&B or to complete the survey by phone with one of our trained interviewers.

Reminder Email 11

Email is part of Source and Signatory Experiment

SUBJECT: Don’t Miss Your Chance to Participate in B&B:08/18

Hi «fname»,

Don’t forget to complete the 2008/18 Baccalaureate and Beyond Longitudinal Study (B&B) survey and receive your $20 thank you by check or PayPal. Your participation is critical to the success of the study. No one else can tell us about your experiences since graduating «with your degree in [major]».

B&B takes only about 5 minutes to complete. The survey will close on October 30 so don’t delay! Click here to get started!

You can also log on to our secure website https://surveys.nces.ed.gov/bb/ using your study credentials:

Study ID = «caseid»

Password = «password»

Call 1-877-262-4440 to get more information about B&B or to complete the survey by phone with one of our trained interviewers.

We hope you will decide to participate – B&B won’t be the same without you.

[INSERT MERGE FIELD FROM TABLE – SOURCE AND SIGNATORY EXPERIMENT, PAGE 32]

OMB Control Number: 1850-0729

Learn more about our confidentiality procedures at https://surveys.nces.ed.gov/bb/confidentiality.aspx

Reminder Email 12

Email is part of Source and Signatory Experiment

SUBJECT: It's Time to Complete B&B and Receive $20 When you Participate

Dear «fname»,

I haven’t heard from you regarding your participation in the 2008/18 Baccalaureate and Beyond Longitudinal Study (B&B). I am writing again because of the importance of your responses to help policymakers and researchers understand how earning a bachelor’s degree «in [major]» impacts choices about further education and work. The study won’t be complete unless we hear from young adults like you!

The survey only takes about 5 minutes to complete and you’ll receive $20 for completing it! You can receive your $20 by check or PayPal.

Click here to get started!

You can also log on to our secure website https://surveys.nces.ed.gov/bb/ using your study credentials:

Study ID = «caseid»

Password = «password»

Or, you can call 1-877-262-4440 to get more information about B&B or to complete the survey by phone with one of our trained interviewers.

We hope you will decide to participate.

Thank you!

[INSERT MERGE FIELD FROM TABLE – SOURCE AND SIGNATORY EXPERIMENT, PAGE 32]

OMB Control Number: 1850-0729

Learn more about our confidentiality procedures at https://surveys.nces.ed.gov/bb/confidentiality.aspx

Reminder Email 13

Email is part of Source and Signatory Experiment

SUBJECT: Last Call! Only a Couple Days Left to Complete B&B:08/18

This is it, «fname»! The B&B 2008/18 survey by the U.S. Department of Education will end on October 30 and you will miss your chance to receive your $20 token of appreciation if you don’t participate!

We want to hear about your experiences since graduating from college «with a [major] degree» in 2006-07. The survey only takes about 5 minutes to complete. You can receive your $20 by check or PayPal.

Click here to get started right now!

You can also log on to our secure website https://surveys.nces.ed.gov/bb/ using your study credentials:

Study ID = «caseid»

Password = «password»

Or, you can call 1-877-262-4440 to get more information about B&B or to complete the survey by phone with one of our trained interviewers.

We hope you will decide to participate.

Thank you!

[INSERT MERGE FIELD FROM TABLE – SOURCE AND SIGNATORY EXPERIMENT, PAGE 32]

OMB Control Number: 1850-0729

Learn more about our confidentiality procedures at https://surveys.nces.ed.gov/bb/confidentiality.aspx

Reminder Email 14

Email is part of Source and Signatory Experiment

SUBJECT: Final Day! Hurry and Complete Your B&B Survey Now!

TODAY is your last chance to complete your 2008/18 Baccalaureate and Beyond Longitudinal Study (B&B) survey, «fname»!

Here’s what you need to know:

The survey closes at midnight TONIGHT – no extensions, this is it!
You will receive $20 as a thank you, paid via check or PayPal.
The survey only takes about 5 minutes to complete.
There are only 10 questions!

There is still time for you to participate and make your voice heard. We need to hear from college graduates «with degrees in [major]» like you. Get started right now by clicking here!

You can also log on to our secure website https://surveys.nces.ed.gov/bb/ using your study credentials:

Study ID = «caseid»

Password = «password»

You can call 1-877-262-4440 to complete the survey by phone with one of our trained interviewers or to get more information about B&B.

We hope you will decide to participate and make B&B a success! Thank you!

[INSERT MERGE FIELD FROM TABLE – SOURCE AND SIGNATORY EXPERIMENT, PAGE 32]

OMB Control Number: 1850-0729

Learn more about our confidentiality procedures at https://surveys.nces.ed.gov/bb/confidentiality.aspx

Text Message Reminders

TEXT MESSAGE REMINDER 1

Hi «fname»! Your B&B survey from the US Department of Education is now online. You will receive $«IncAmt» as a thanks for participating. Click here to take the survey: [LINK]

TEXT MESSAGE REMINDER 2

«fname», this is a reminder to complete your B&B survey. Follow this link to take the survey and get $«IncAmt» as a token of appreciation: [LINK]

TEXT MESSAGE REMINDER 3

Your B&B survey is still available, «fname»! If you participate we will say thank you with $«IncAmt». Click this link to take the survey: [LINK]

TEXT MESSAGE REMINDER 4 (MINI)

Hi «fname»! Your B&B survey is now only 10 questions and you will get $«IncAmt» as a thank you! Take the survey by clicking here: [LINK]

TEXT MESSAGE REMINDER 5 (MINI)

Last chance, «fname»! Your 10-question B&B survey and the $«IncAmt» thank you is only available through October 30. Follow this link to take the survey: [LINK]

TEXT MESSAGE, REMINDER 6 (RÉSUMÉ)

«fname», tomorrow is the last day to participate in B&B by submitting your résumé here: [LINK]. We will thank you with $«IncAmt»!

Résumé Only, Initial Email

Email is part of Source and Signatory Experiment

SUBJECT: Share Your Résumé with B&B – It’s Easy!

«fname»:

There is a new way to participate in the Baccalaureate and Beyond Longitudinal Study (B&B)! Hearing about your experiences since graduating from college «with your [major] degree» is extremely important to us.

Simply submit your résumé or curriculum vitae and receive $20 as a thank you! It only takes a few minutes!

Here’s what you need to do:

<<Describe process for uploading résumé here>>

Study ID = «caseid»

Password = «password»

Call 1-877-262-4440 if you need more information about B&B or have questions about uploading your résumé.

We hope you will decide to participate in this important study.

[INSERT MERGE FIELD FROM TABLE – SOURCE AND SIGNATORY EXPERIMENT, PAGE 32]

OMB Control Number: 1850-0729

Learn more about our confidentiality procedures at https://surveys.nces.ed.gov/bb/confidentiality.aspx

Résumé Only, Reminder Email 1

Email is part of Source and Signatory Experiment

SUBJECT: Your $20 From B&B is Waiting

«fname»:

We are ready to send your $20 thank you via PayPal or check. We just need you to submit your résumé or curriculum vitae to B&B! Learning more about your experiences since graduating with your «[major] degree» is extremely important to us.

It only takes a few minutes to upload your résumé!

<<Describe process for uploading résumé here>>

Study ID = «caseid»

Password = «password»

Call 1-877-262-4440 if you need more information about B&B or have questions about uploading your résumé.

Last day to participate is November 6. Don’t delay!

[INSERT MERGE FIELD FROM TABLE – SOURCE AND SIGNATORY EXPERIMENT, PAGE 32]

OMB Control Number: 1850-0729

Learn more about our confidentiality procedures at https://surveys.nces.ed.gov/bb/confidentiality.aspx

Résumé Only, Reminder Email 2

Email is part of Source and Signatory Experiment

SUBJECT: LAST CHANCE to Participate in B&B

«fname»:

This is the last day to participate in the Baccalaureate and Beyond Longitudinal Study (B&B). This important study is conducted by the U.S. Department of Education. Data collected from B&B will help researchers and policymakers better understand how earning a bachelor’s degree «in [major]» impacts choices for additional education and employment paths.

Contribute to this important research by submitting your résumé or curriculum vitae to B&B! You will receive $20 as a thank you via PayPal or check. It will only take a few minutes!

To upload your résumé:

<<Describe process for uploading résumé here>>

Study ID = «caseid»

Password = «password»

Call 1-877-262-4440 if you need more information about B&B or have questions about uploading your résumé.

Don’t delay!

[INSERT MERGE FIELD FROM TABLE – SOURCE AND SIGNATORY EXPERIMENT, PAGE 32]

OMB Control Number: 1850-0729

Learn more about our confidentiality procedures at https://surveys.nces.ed.gov/bb/confidentiality.aspx

Thank You Letter

«date»

«fname» «mname» «lname» «suffix» Study ID: «caseid»

«addr1»

«addr2»

«city», «state» «zip» «zip4»

Dear «fname»:

On behalf of the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) in the U.S. Department of Education’s Institute of Education Sciences and the staff of the 2008/18 Baccalaureate and Beyond Longitudinal Study (B&B:08/18), we would like to thank you. Your participation in B&B is very important in helping to ensure the success of the study.

[INSERT MERGE FIELD FROM TABLE – RÉSUMÉ, BELOW]

If you have questions, please do not hesitate to call the B&B Help Desk at 1-877-262-4440.

Thank you for helping make B&B a success!

Sincerely,

Jennifer

Jennifer Wine, Ph.D.

Project Director, B&B:08/18

RTI International

877-225-8470

MERGE FIELD OPTIONS - RÉSUMÉ

Résumé – If agreed to submit and have not yet

We noticed we have not received a résumé from you yet. Please take a few minutes to submit your résumé so we can have a better understanding of your experiences since college graduation. Uploading your résumé takes only a few minutes and you will receive $«IncAmt» for your effort!

<<Insert instructions for uploading résumé here>>

Résumé – If did not agreed to submit

Leave blank

Hard Copy – Selected & Completed in paper

At this point we would also like to give you the opportunity to upload your résumé. It takes less than 5 minutes and you will receive an additional $«IncAmt» as a token of our appreciation.

<<Insert instructions for uploading résumé here>>

According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, no persons are required to respond to a collection of information unless it displays a valid OMB control number. The valid OMB control number for this voluntary information collection is 1850-0729. The time required to complete this information collection is estimated to average approximately <<time>> minutes per response, including the time to review instructions, gather the data needed, and complete and review the information collection. If you have any comments concerning the accuracy of the time estimate, suggestions for improving this survey, or any comments or concerns regarding the status of your individual submission of this survey, please write directly to: The 2008/18 Baccalaureate and Beyond Longitudinal Study, National Center for Education Statistics, Potomac Center Plaza, 550 12^th St, SW, Room 4004, Washington, DC 20202.

Thank You Email

Email is part of Source and Signatory Experiment

SUBJECT: Thank You from B&B

Dear «fname» «lname»:

On behalf of the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) in the U.S. Department of Education’s Institute of Education Sciences and the staff of the 2008/18 Baccalaureate and Beyond Longitudinal Study (B&B:08/18), we would like to thank you for participating in B&B. Your participation is very important in helping to ensure the success of the study.

[INSERT MERGE FIELD FROM TABLE – RÉSUMÉ, PAGE 47]

If you have questions, please do not hesitate to call the B&B Help Desk at 1-877-262-4440.

Thank you for helping make B&B a success!

Sincerely,

[INSERT MERGE FIELD FROM TABLE – SOURCE AND SIGNATORY EXPERIMENT, PAGE 32]

OMB Control Number: 1850-0729

Learn more about our confidentiality procedures at https://surveys.nces.ed.gov/bb/confidentiality.aspx

Résumé Reminder Email 1

(Reminder email sent to cases that completed interview and indicated willingness to upload résumé.)

Email is part of Source and Signatory Experiment

SUBJECT: Don’t Forget- Upload Your Résumé for B&B Today

Dear «fname» «lname»:

On behalf of the U.S. Department of Education and the staff of the 2008/18 Baccalaureate and Beyond Longitudinal Study (B&B:08/18), we would like to thank you for completing your B&B survey.

Now that your survey is complete, it’s time to upload your résumé! It takes less than 5 minutes and you will receive $«IncAmt» as a token of our appreciation. The purpose of uploading your résumé is to provide a more complete picture of your education and employment paths. Seeing what college graduates «with degrees in [major]» like yourself have been up to is an important part of our study!

To upload your résumé, simply <<describe process for uploading résumé here>>.

Please do not hesitate call the B&B Help Desk at 1-877-262-4440 if we can provide any additional information or assistance.

Again, thank you for your time and willingness to participate. Your ongoing participation in this study is very important to ensuring the study’s success. We will contact you again in a couple of weeks if we haven't received your résumé yet.

Thank you for helping to make the B&B:08/18 a success!

[INSERT MERGE FIELD FROM TABLE – SOURCE AND SIGNATORY EXPERIMENT]

OMB Control Number: 1850-0729

Learn more about our confidentiality procedures at https://surveys.nces.ed.gov/bb/confidentiality.aspx

Re-Interview, Initial Letter

«date»

«fname» «mname» «lname» «suffix» Study ID: «caseid»

«addr1»

«addr2»

«city», «state» «zip» «zip4»

Dear «fname»:

You may recall recently completing the Baccalaureate and Beyond Longitudinal Study (B&B) survey. Thank you for your participation! Hearing from «[major]» graduates like you is extremely important to us.

At the end of your survey, you were randomly selected for and agreed to participate in a quality control survey. This second survey will take less than 10 minutes to complete.

[INSERT MERGE FIELD FROM TABLE, BELOW]

If you have any questions or need assistance, you can call us toll-free at 1-877-262-4440 or e-mail us at [email protected].

If you have already completed this quality control survey, please disregard this message. Again, thank you for your time and willingness to participate.

Sincerely,

Jennifer

Jennifer Wine, Ph.D.

Project Director, B&B:08/18

RTI International