2021 SDR Contact Letters

Appendix E Contact Letters_Emails.pdf

2021 Survey of Doctorate Recipients (NCSES)

2021 SDR Contact Letters

OMB: 3145-0020

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Appendix E
DRAFT as of May 14, 2021

SDR 2021 Survey Mailing Materials
Contents
Protocol Overview ................................................................................................................................. 2
Frequently Asked Questions .................................................................................................................. 3
Week 1 ................................................................................................................................................... 5
Invitation Letter .......................................................................................................................................... 5
Invitation Letter with Infocard .................................................................................................................... 6
Invitation Letter for 2019 Nonrespondents closed as Hard/Hostile Refusals................................................. 7
Invitation Letter for 2019 Responders who were Hard/Hostile about future participation............................ 8
Week 5 ................................................................................................................................................... 9
Reminder Letter, No Incentive ..................................................................................................................... 9
Reminder Letter with Prepaid Visa Card................................................................................................... 10
Week 9 ..................................................................................................................................................11
Reminder Postcard ................................................................................................................................... 11
Reminder Letter with Self-Administered Questionnaire (SAQ) .................................................................... 12
Week 13 ................................................................................................................................................13
Perforated Reminder ............................................................................................................................... 13
Week 17 ................................................................................................................................................15
Domestic Late Stage Letter, No Incentive .................................................................................................. 15
Domestic Late Stage Letter with Prepaid Visa Card .................................................................................. 16
International Critical Items Only (CIO) Letter ............................................................................................. 17
Week 21 ................................................................................................................................................18
Nonresponse Followup (NRFU) Letter ........................................................................................................ 18
Week 25 ................................................................................................................................................19
Last Chance Letter, Critical Items Only (CIO) offer .................................................................................... 19
Last Chance Letter, no Critical Items Only (CIO) offer ............................................................................... 20
Ad Hoc Letters .......................................................................................................................................21
Incentive Remails ................................................................................................................................. 21
Self-administered Questionnaire (SAQ ............................................................................................ 22
Emails....................................................................................................................................................23
Email 1A: Invitation Email Week 1 ........................................................................................................... 23
Email 1B: Weeks 1, 5, 9, 13 .................................................................................................................... 24
Email 2: Weeks 2, 6, 10, 14 .................................................................................................................... 26
Email 3: Week 17.................................................................................................................................... 28
Email 4: Week 21.................................................................................................................................... 29
Email 5: Weeks 18, 22 ............................................................................................................................ 30
Email P: Weeks 14, 26 Partial Completes ................................................................................................ 31
Email LC: Week 26 Last Chance ............................................................................................................... 32
Email NP: Ad hoc correspondence to non-primary email addresses ........................................................... 33

DRAFT as of May 14, 2021

Protocol Overview
•

Postal mailings will be sent every 4 weeks.
o For those with an email address, postal mailings will be followed by an email, and an
additional email reminder will be sent the next week.

•

The initial invitation mailing in Week 1 has a slightly different procedure:
o For 2019 respondents who have a good email, we will begin with an invitation email
rather than a letter. They will receive their first postal mailing at week 5.
o Otherwise, all other sample members will get the invitation mailing at Week 1 (and
an email if we have a good email address).

•

Early incentives will be provided to some sample members in the Week 5 mailing.

•

The SAQ (self-administered questionnaire) will be mailed to 2019 SAQ respondents in the
Week 9 mailing.

•

Late stage incentives will be provided to some sample members at Week 17 mailing.

•

International CIO (Critical Items Only) will be offered at Week 17.

•

FedEx will be offered to some sample members in the Week 21 mailing.

•

Domestic CIO will be offered to some sample members at Week 25.

DRAFT as of May 14, 2021

Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ
Included on backside of all letters

Survey of Doctorate Recipients (SDR)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Survey of Doctorate Recipients?
Since the 1970s, the Survey of Doctorate Recipients (SDR) has been the most important source of
information on the education and training, work experience, and career development of science,
engineering, and health (SEH) doctorate holders trained in the United States. The SDR is
conducted by the National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics (NCSES) within the
National Science Foundation and the National Institutes of Health. Westat serves as the data
collection contractor for the SDR on behalf of NCSES.
How is the information used?
The SDR provides data useful in assessing the supply and characteristics of the nation's SEH
doctorates employed in educational institutions, private industry, and professional organizations,
as well as in Federal, state, and local governments. Data are used by policymakers, academic
organizations, and governmental agencies to understand the educational and occupational
achievements and career movement of U.S.-trained doctoral scientists and engineers in the
United States and abroad.
For other uses and more information, visit https://nsf.gov/statistics/srvydoctoratework/.
Who should participate?
SDR samples individuals who have earned an SEH research doctoral degree from a U.S.
academic institution and are less than 76 years of age. You were randomly selected to
participate, and you represent hundreds of other SEH doctorates. We cannot replace you with
another person because it would harm the quality of the data we collect. Your response is
voluntary, and there is no penalty for not answering individual questions. The success of this survey
depends on your response.
Will my information be kept confidential?
Yes, all information you provide will be kept strictly confidential and safeguarded in accordance with
the Privacy Act of 1974 and the Confidential Information Protection and Statistical Efficiency Act of
2002. Your responses are used for research purposes only.
Per the Federal Cybersecurity Enhancement Act of 2015, your data are protected from
cybersecurity risks through screening of the Federal systems that transmit your data.
Information that personally identifies you is separated from your survey responses. Published
reports show only summary information.
How long will this survey take?
Although individual times may vary, the average time to complete the survey is about 21
minutes. Send comments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspects of this collection of
information, including suggestions for reducing this burden, to the
Reports Clearance Officer
Policy Office, Division of Institution and Award Support
National Science Foundation
2415 Eisenhower Ave.
Alexandria, VA 22314
Additional information about this survey

DRAFT as of May 14, 2021

Under 5 CFR 1320.5(b), an agency cannot conduct, sponsor, or require a response to a
collection of information unless the collection displays a currently valid Office of Management
and Budget (OMB) approval number. The OMB approval number for this survey is 3145-0020.

DRAFT as of May 14, 2021

Week 1
Invitation Letter
Week 1, Invitation Phase
Letter in #10 envelope
2021 CONTINUING cohort with an address in the USA, who did not participate in 2019 or
who participated but cashed an incentive, and were not 2019 hard/hostile refusal

{DATE}
Dear Dr. {LAST NAME},
You are invited to complete the 2021 Survey of Doctorate Recipients (SDR) that is being conducted
by our survey contractor, Westat. The SDR studies the experiences of doctorate degree holders, and
is sponsored by the National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics within the National
Science Foundation and the National Institutes of Health. It is the only source of data on the careers
of science, engineering, and health doctorate holders from U.S. academic institutions and has been
conducted since 1973.
Please complete the 2021 SDR online:
https://www.NSFsdr.org
PIN: {WEBPIN}
This valuable survey collects demographic, education, and career history information from individuals
with a U.S. research doctoral degree in a science, engineering, or health field, whether they are
working, retired, or seeking work.
We have made two important changes to the 2021 SDR:
•

We included new questions to address how the coronavirus pandemic has impacted
employment situations; and

•

We have streamlined the way we ask questions based on a pilot study conducted with a
number of SDR sample members.

The success of this survey depends on your participation; we cannot substitute anyone else for you.
For more information, see the back of this letter for answers to frequently asked questions, email
[email protected], or call 855-460-5324 (toll-free in the United States) or 301-637-8195 (outside
the United States). Staff members are available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
(Eastern Time), and Saturday and Sunday from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. (Eastern Time).
Thank you in advance for responding to this important survey.
Sincerely,
Emilda B. Rivers, Director
National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics
National Science Foundation

DRAFT as of May 14, 2021

Invitation Letter with Infocard
Week 1, Invitation Phase
Letter in 6x9 envelope with Infocard
All 2021 NEW cohort, and all 2021 CONTINUING cohort with int ernational address.

{DATE}
Dear Dr. {LAST NAME},
You are invited to complete the 2021 Survey of Doctorate Recipients (SDR) that is being conducted
by our survey contractor, Westat. The SDR studies the experiences of U.S.-trained doctorate degree
holders who are living in and outside of the United States, and is sponsored by the National Center
for Science and Engineering Statistics within the National Science Foundation and the National
Institutes of Health. It is the only source of data on the careers of science, engineering, and health
doctorate holders from U.S. academic institutions and has been conducted since 1973.
Please complete the 2021 SDR online:
https://www.NSFsdr.org
PIN: {WEBPIN}
This valuable survey collects demographic, education, and career history information from individuals
with a U.S. research doctoral degree in a science, engineering, or health field. By participating, you
can
•
•

help academic and governmental organizations with decision making, for instance, in the
anticipation of personnel shortages and funding needs for research and development;
and
help students who want to learn about the occupational potential of their graduate
education.

The 2021 SDR also includes questions that speak to how the coronavirus pandemic has
impacted employment situations for doctorate degree holders.
The success of this survey depends on your participation; we cannot substitute anyone else for you.
For more information, see the back of this letter for answers to frequently asked questions, email
[email protected], or call 855-460-5324 (toll-free in the United States) or 301-637-8195 (outside
the United States). Staff members are available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
(Eastern Time), and Saturday and Sunday from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. (Eastern Time).
Thank you in advance for responding to this important survey.
Sincerely,
Emilda B. Rivers, Director
National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics
National Science Foundation

DRAFT as of May 14, 2021

Invitation Letter for 2019 Nonrespondents closed as Hard/Hostile Refusals
Week 1, Invitation Phase
Letter in #10 envelope
2021 CONTINUING cohort with USA mailing address, who did not complete the 2019 survey,
and who were a hard/hostile refusal
{DATE}
Dear Dr. {LAST NAME},

You are invited to complete the 2021 Survey of Doctorate Recipients (SDR) that is being conducted
by our survey contractor, Westat. We understand you did not want to respond to the SDR in 2019.
We have also added new questions that speak to how the coronavirus pandemic has impacted
doctorate degree holders.
Please complete the 2021 SDR online:
https://www.NSFsdr.org
PIN: {WEBPIN}
As you know, the SDR is the only source of data on the demographic, education, and career history
information from individuals with a U.S. research doctoral degree in a science, engineering, or health
field.
The success of this survey depends on your participation; we cannot substitute anyone else for
you. For more information, see the back of this letter for answers to frequently asked questions, email
[email protected], or call 855-460-5324 (toll-free in the United States) or 301-637-8195 (outside
the United States). Staff members are available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
(Eastern Time), and Saturday and Sunday from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. (Eastern Time).
This is the only letter we will be sending you regarding the SDR, and we hope you will consider
responding to the survey.
Thank you in advance for your consideration in responding to this important survey.
Sincerely,
Emilda B. Rivers, Director
National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics
National Science Foundation

DRAFT as of May 14, 2021

Invitation Letter for 2019 Responders who were Hard/Hostile about future participation
Week 1, Invitation Phase
Letter in #10 envelope
2021 CONTINUING cohort with USA mailing address, who completed the 2019 survey, and
who were firm about not being contact ed for future cycles

{DATE}
Dear Dr. {LAST NAME},
You are invited to complete the 2021 Survey of Doctorate Recipients (SDR) that is being conducted
by our survey contractor, Westat. We understand you did not want to be contacted again about the
SDR, but we have made some new improvements to the survey and wanted to give you an
opportunity to participate. We have also added new questions that speak to how the coronavirus
pandemic has impacted doctorate degree holders.
Please complete the 2021 SDR online:
https://www.NSFsdr.org
PIN: {WEBPIN}
As you know, the SDR is the only source of data on the demographic, education, and career history
information from individuals with a U.S. research doctoral degree in a science, engineering, or health
field. The 2021 SDR also studies the possible ways the coronavirus pandemic has impacted
employment situations.
The success of this survey depends on your participation; we cannot substitute anyone else for
you. For more information, see the back of this letter for answers to frequently asked questions, email
[email protected], or call 855-460-5324 (toll-free in the United States) or 301-637-8195 (outside
the United States). Staff members are available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
(Eastern Time), and Saturday and Sunday from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. (Eastern Time).
This is the only letter we will be sending you regarding the SDR, and we hope you will consider
responding to the survey.
Thank you in advance for your consideration in responding to this important survey.
Sincerely,
Emilda B. Rivers, Director
National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics
National Science Foundation

DRAFT as of May 14, 2021

Week 5
Reminder Letter, No Incentive
Week 5, Reminder Phase
Letter in #10 envelope

{DATE}
Dear Dr. {LAST NAME},
We would like your help in completing the 2021 Survey of Doctorate Recipients (SDR). Your
response is critical to helping to assess the supply and characteristics of U.S.-trained science,
engineering, and health doctorates, and also to understand the possible impacts of the coronavirus
pandemic on the doctorate population. To help you understand the importance of this study, please
explore results from previous studies on the SDR website at
https://www.nsf.gov/statistics/srvydoctoratework/.
If you have already completed the survey, thank you. If not, please take a moment and complete it
today, using the information shown below.
Please complete the 2021 SDR today:
https://www.NSFsdr.org
PIN: {WEBPIN}
You were scientifically selected for this survey and your response is very important. For more
information, see the back of this letter for answers to frequently asked questions, email our survey
contractor (Westat) at [email protected], or call 855-460-5324 (toll-free in the United States) or
301-637-8195 (outside the United States). Staff members are available Monday through Friday
from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Eastern Time), and Saturday and Sunday from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. (Eastern
Time).
Thank you in advance for your participation in this important survey.
Sincerely,
Emilda B. Rivers, Director
National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics
National Science Foundation

DRAFT as of May 14, 2021

Reminder Letter with Prepaid Visa Card
Week 5, Reminder Phase
Letter in #11 envelope with Prepaid Visa Card

{DATE}
Dear Dr. {LAST NAME},
We would like your help in completing the 2021 Survey of Doctorate Recipients (SDR). Your
response is critical to helping to assess the supply and characteristics of U.S.-trained science,
engineering, and health doctorates, and also to understand the possible impacts of the coronavirus
pandemic on the doctorate population. To help you understand the importance of this study, please
explore results from previous studies on the SDR website at
https://www.nsf.gov/statistics/srvydoctoratework/.
If you have already completed the survey, thank you. If not, please take a moment and complete it
today, using the information shown below.
Please complete the 2021 SDR today:
https://www.NSFsdr.org
PIN: {WEBPIN}
In appreciation of your participation, we have enclosed a {$10/$30} Visa® Prepaid Card for you
to use upon completion of the survey. Instructions for using the card are enclosed.
You were scientifically selected for this survey and your response is very important. For more
information, see the back of this letter for answers to frequently asked questions, email our survey
contractor (Westat) at [email protected], or call 855-460-5324 (toll-free in the United States) or
301-637-8195 (outside the United States). Staff members are available Monday through Friday
from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Eastern Time), and Saturday and Sunday from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. (Eastern
Time).
Thank you in advance for your participation in this important survey.
Sincerely,
Emilda B. Rivers, Director
National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics
National Science Foundation
Use your Visa Prepaid Card anywhere Visa debit cards are accepted around the world. The Visa Card is issued by The Bancorp Bank,
Member FDIC, pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. Pay close attention to the expiration date of the Card.

DRAFT as of May 14, 2021

Week 9
Reminder Postcard
Week 9, Self Administered Questionnaire ( SAQ) Phase
Folded Postcard

Outside of card:

Inside of card:

DRAFT as of May 14, 2021

Reminder Letter with Self-Administered Questionnaire (SAQ)
Week 9, Self Administered Questionnaire ( SAQ) Phase
Letter, Self Administered Questionnaire ( SAQ), and Business Reply Envelope ( BRE) in a 9x12
envelope

{DATE}
Dear Dr. {LAST NAME},
We are requesting your help in completing the 2021 Survey of Doctorate Recipients (SDR).
Whether you are working, retired, seeking work, or in some other situation, the SDR seeks to
represent all U.S.-trained doctorate degree holders in science, engineering, and health disciplines.
Many thanks if you have already completed the survey, we look forward to receiving it shortly.
Otherwise, please fill out and return the 2021 SDR questionnaire in the enclosed postage-paid
envelope.
Alternately, you can complete the SDR online, using the information shown below.
Please complete the 2021 SDR now:
https://www.NSFsdr.org
PIN: {WEBPIN}
Your response is critical to the success of this survey. For more information, see the back of this
letter for answers to frequently asked questions, email our survey contractor (Westat) at
[email protected], or call 855-460-5324 (toll-free in the United States) or 301-637-8195 (outside
the United States). Staff members are available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
(Eastern Time), and Saturday and Sunday from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. (Eastern Time).
Thank you for your help with this important effort. We look forward to your response.
Sincerely,
Emilda B. Rivers, Director
National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics
National Science Foundation

DRAFT as of May 14, 2021

Week 13
Perforated Reminder
Week 13, Additional Mode Phase
Perforated Envelope
The “Did You Know” message is below the return mailing address on the outside fold.
Did you know…More than 4 in 10
employed U.S.-trained research
doctorate holders in science,
engineering or health fields work in
business or industry?

{DATE}
Dear Dr. {LAST NAME},
We would appreciate your help in completing the 2021 Survey of Doctorate Recipients (SDR).
Many thanks if you have already completed the survey, we look forward to receiving it shortly. We
would appreciate if you could complete the SDR online by {MAILING DATE +14 days}, using the
information shown below.
Please complete the 2021 SDR by {DATE+14}:
https://www.NSFsdr.org
PIN: {WEBPIN}
SDR 2019 results show that employed U.S.-trained doctorate holders in science, engineering, or
health fields are predominately working in educational institutions (43.8%) and in business or
industry (47.1%). The figure below shows that employment sectors vary by field of doctorate. Your
response will help us update these and other similar statistics for 2021.

DRAFT as of May 14, 2021
U.S.-residing doctorates in science, engineering, and health fields,
by broad field of doctorate and employment sector: 2019 SDR
9.1

10.4

4.3

47.1

42.3

59.9

43.7

47.2

4.2

9.2

10.5

Percent

All fields

50.8

49.4

40.0

Biological, Computer and Mathematics
Physical
agricultural, information and statistics
Sciences,
and
sciences
Geosciences,
environmental
Atmospheric,
life sciences
and Ocean
Sciences

65.0

40.1

55.6
26.7

Psychology Social sciences Engineering

Business/Industry

8.2
36.1

67.0

59.3

Educational Institution

8.3

23.7

36.6

35.9

9.3

Health

Government

For more information, email our survey contractor (Westat) at [email protected], or call 855-4605324 (toll-free in the United States) or 301-637-8195 (outside the United States). Staff members
are available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Eastern Time), and Saturday and
Sunday from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. (Eastern Time).
Thank you for your help with this important effort. We look forward to your response.
Sincerely,
Emilda B. Rivers, Director
National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics
National Science Foundation

DRAFT as of May 14, 2021

Week 17
Domestic Late Stage Letter, No Incentive
Week 17, Late Incentive Phase
Letter in #10 envelope

{DATE}
Dear Dr. {LAST NAME},
We have been trying to contact you to participate in the 2021 Survey of Doctorate Recipients
(SDR) but have not yet received your survey.
The SDR seeks to represent doctorate degree holders whether they are working, retired, seeking
work, or not working. Whatever your situation, your response will help us to ensure the highest
quality data possible. All the information that you provide is strictly confidential and protected by
U.S. law.
If you have already completed the survey, thank you. Otherwise, please complete the SDR online,
using the information shown below.
Please complete the 2021 SDR in the next week:
https://www.NSFsdr.org
PIN: {WEBPIN}
Your response within the next week would be most appreciated. For more information, see the
back of this letter for answers to frequently asked questions, email our survey contractor (Westat) at
[email protected], or call 855-460-5324 (toll-free in the United States) or 301-637-8195 (outside
the United States). Staff members are available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
(Eastern Time), and Saturday and Sunday from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. (Eastern Time).
Thank you in advance for responding to this important survey.
Sincerely,
Emilda B. Rivers, Director
National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics
National Science Foundation

DRAFT as of May 14, 2021

Domestic Late Stage Letter with Prepaid Visa Card
Week 17, Late Incentive Phase
Letter in #11 envelope with Prepaid Visa Card

{DATE}
Dear Dr. {LAST NAME},
We have been trying to contact you to participate in the 2021 Survey of Doctorate Recipients
(SDR) but have not yet received your survey. We have enclosed a {$20/$30} Visa® Prepaid
Card in this mailing because your response is so important.
The SDR seeks to represent doctorate degree holders whether they are working, retired, seeking
work, or not working. Whatever your situation, we would appreciate your survey participation in
order to ensure the highest quality data possible. All the information that you provide is strictly
confidential and protected by U.S. law.
If you have already responded, thank you and please enjoy the enclosed Prepaid Visa Card.
Otherwise, please complete the SDR online, using the information shown below.
Please complete the 2021 SDR in the next week:
https://www.NSFsdr.org
PIN: {WEBPIN}
Your response within the next week would be most appreciated. For more information, see the
back of this letter for answers to frequently asked questions, email our survey contractor (Westat) at
[email protected], or call 855-460-5324 (toll-free in the United States) or 301-637-8195 (outside
the United States). Staff members are available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
(Eastern Time), and Saturday and Sunday from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. (Eastern Time).
Thank you in advance for responding to this important survey.
Sincerely,
Emilda B. Rivers, Director
National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics
National Science Foundation
Use your Visa Prepaid Card anywhere Visa debit cards are accepted around the world. The Visa Card is issued by The Bancorp Bank,
Member FDIC, pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. Pay close attention to the expiration date of the card.

DRAFT as of May 14, 2021

International Critical Items Only (CIO) Letter
Week 17, Late Incentive Phase
Letter in #10 envelope

{DATE}
Dear Dr. {LAST NAME},
Be included in the 2021 Survey of Doctorate Recipients (SDR)! You are uniquely qualified to
contribute to this study and the quality of our data will be improved with your participation.
If you have already completed the 2021 survey, thank you so much for your time!
Because your response is critical to the study's success, we are offering you a brief 10-minute
version of the online survey.
Please complete the 2021 SDR online:
https://www.NSFsdr.org
PIN: {WEBPIN}
All the information that you provide is strictly confidential and protected by U.S. law.
If you have any questions regarding the survey, please contact our survey contractor (Westat) via
email at [email protected] or please call 855-460-5324 (toll-free in the United States) or 301-6378195 (outside the United States). Staff members are available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m.
to 10 p.m. (Eastern Time), and Saturday and Sunday from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. (Eastern Time).
Thank you in advance for your contribution to this valuable effort. We look forward to receiving
your completed survey.
Sincerely,
Emilda B. Rivers, Director
National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics
National Science Foundation

DRAFT as of May 14, 2021

Week 21
Nonresponse Followup (NRFU) Letter
Week 21, Late Incentive Phase
Letter in #10 or FedEx envelope

{DATE}
Dear Dr. {LAST NAME},
We have sent you several requests to participate in the 2021 Survey of Doctorate Recipients (SDR).
We know your time is valuable, and we would greatly appreciate your participation to ensure that
the survey results are accurate and representative. {We have sent this request via FedEx because
your response is so important.}
If you have already completed the survey, thank you so much for your time. Otherwise, please
complete the SDR as soon as possible, using the information shown below.
Please complete the 2021 SDR today:
https://www.NSFsdr.org
PIN: {WEBPIN}
You were scientifically selected for this survey and your response is very important. For more
information, see the back of this letter for answers to frequently asked questions, email our survey
contractor (Westat) at [email protected], or call 855-460-5324 (toll-free in the United States) or
301-637-8195 (outside the United States). Staff members are available Monday through Friday
from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Eastern Time), and Saturday and Sunday from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. (Eastern
Time).
Thank you in advance for your contribution to this valuable effort. We look forward to receiving
your completed survey.
Sincerely,
Emilda B. Rivers, Director
National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics
National Science Foundation

DRAFT as of May 14, 2021

Week 25
Last Chance Letter, Critical Items Only (CIO) offer
Week 25, CIO Phase
Letter in #10 envelope

{DATE}
Dear Dr. {LAST NAME},
This is your last chance to be included in the 2021 Survey of Doctorate Recipients (SDR). The
survey will be closing soon. This is your last chance to help policymakers, researchers, your
colleagues, and the public better understand the impact of a doctorate education.
You were individually selected from millions of doctorate recipients in the United States to represent
this population. We are counting on your help to ensure the highest quality data possible.
If you have already completed the survey, thank you so much for your time.
If not, because your response is critical to the study's success, we are offering you a brief 10-minute
version of the online survey.
Please complete the 2021 SDR today:
https://www.NSFsdr.org
PIN: {WEBPIN}
All the information that you provide is strictly confidential and protected by U.S. law.
For more information, see the back of this letter for answers to frequently asked questions, email our
survey contractor (Westat) at [email protected], or call 855-460-5324 (toll-free in the United
States) or 301-637-8195 (outside the United States). Staff members are available Monday through
Friday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Eastern Time), and Saturday and Sunday from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.
(Eastern Time).
Thank you in advance for your contribution to this valuable effort. We look forward to receiving
your completed survey.
Sincerely,
Emilda B. Rivers, Director
National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics
National Science Foundation

DRAFT as of May 14, 2021

Last Chance Letter, no Critical Items Only (CIO) offer
Week 25, CIO Phase
Letter in #10 envelope

{DATE}
Dear Dr. {LAST NAME},
This is your last chance to be included in the 2021 Survey of Doctorate Recipients (SDR). The
survey will be closing soon. This is your last chance to help policymakers, researchers, your
colleagues, and the public better understand the impact of a doctorate education.
You were individually selected from millions of doctorate recipients in the United States to represent
this population. We are counting on your help to ensure the highest quality data possible.
If you have already completed the survey, thank you so much for your time. Otherwise, please
complete the SDR as soon as possible, using the information shown below.
Please complete the 2021 SDR today:
https://www.NSFsdr.org
PIN: {WEBPIN}
All the information that you provide is strictly confidential and protected by U.S. law.
For more information, see the back of this letter for answers to frequently asked questions, email our
survey contractor (Westat) at [email protected], or call 855-460-5324 (toll-free in the United
States) or 301-637-8195 (outside the United States). Staff members are available Monday through
Friday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Eastern Time), and Saturday and Sunday from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.
(Eastern Time).
Thank you in advance for your contribution to this valuable effort. We look forward to receiving
your completed survey.
Sincerely,
Emilda B. Rivers, Director
National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics
National Science Foundation

DRAFT as of May 14, 2021

Ad Hoc Letters
Incentive Remails
Letter in #11 envelope with Prepaid Visa Card

{DATE}
Dear Dr. {LAST NAME},
Thank you for contacting us to request a replacement Visa® Prepaid Card for the Survey of
Doctorate Recipients (SDR). We have enclosed the replacement for you to use upon completion of the
survey. Instructions for using the card are enclosed.
If you have already completed the survey, thank you! If you have not, there is still time to
participate in the 2021 SDR.
Please complete the 2021 SDR online:
https://www.NSFsdr.org
PIN: {WEBPIN}
For more information, see the back of this letter for answers to frequently asked questions, email our
survey contractor (Westat) at [email protected], or call 855-460-5324 (toll-free in the United
States) or 301-637-8195 (outside the United States). Staff members are available Monday through
Friday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Eastern Time), and Saturday and Sunday from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.
(Eastern Time).
Thank you in advance for your participation in this important survey.
Sincerely,
Emilda B. Rivers, Director
National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics
National Science Foundation
Use your Visa Prepaid Card anywhere Visa debit cards are accepted around the world. The Visa Card is issued by The Bancorp Bank,
Member FDIC, pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. Pay close attention to the expiration date of the Card.

DRAFT as of May 14, 2021

Self-administered Questionnaire (SAQ) by request
Letter, SAQ, and business reply envelope ( BRE) in a 9x12 envelope

{DATE}
Dear Dr. {LAST NAME},
Thank you for contacting us about your participation in the Survey of Doctorate Recipients (SDR). We
have enclosed a paper copy of the questionnaire. Please complete it at your earliest convenience
and return it in the enclosed postage-paid envelope.
Alternately, you can still complete the SDR online using the information shown below.
To complete the 2021 SDR online:
https://www.NSFsdr.org
PIN: {WEBPIN}
Your response is critical to the success of this survey. For more information, see the back of this
letter for answers to frequently asked questions, email our survey contractor (Westat) at
[email protected], or call 855-460-5324 (toll-free in the United States) or 301-637-8195 (outside
the United States). Staff members are available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
(Eastern Time), and Saturday and Sunday from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. (Eastern Time).
Thank you for your help with this important effort. We look forward to your response.
Sincerely,
Emilda B. Rivers, Director
National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics
National Science Foundation

DRAFT as of May 14, 2021

Emails
Email 1A: Invitation Email Week 1
Week 1, Invitation Phase
2021 CONTINUING cohort, mailing address in the USA, 2019 respondent, not 2019
hard/hostile refusal, and did not receive or did not cash the 2019 incentive check.
Sender: [email protected]
Email subject line: Invitation from NSF-NCSES

Dear Dr. {LAST NAME},
You are invited to participate in the 2021 Survey of Doctorate Recipients (SDR). The SDR studies the
experiences of doctorate degree holders, and is sponsored by the National Center for Science and
Engineering Statistics within the National Science Foundation and the National Institutes of Health.
This valuable survey collects demographic, education, and career history information from individuals
with a U.S. research doctoral degree in a science, engineering, or health field, whether they are
working, retired, or seeking work.
We encourage you to complete the 2021 SDR online. The survey is secure and confidential. Click
here to access the survey. Alternately, you can:
1.

Click on the link: https://www.NSFsdr.org

2.

Enter your PIN: {WEBPIN}

We have made two important changes to the 2021 SDR:
•

We included new questions to address how the coronavirus pandemic has impacted
employment situations; and

•

We have streamlined the way we ask questions, based on a pilot study conducted with a
number of SDR sample members.

The success of this survey depends on your participation; we cannot substitute anyone else for
you. If you have any questions, email our survey contractor (Westat) at [email protected], or call
855-460-5324 (toll-free in the United States) or 301-637-8195 (outside the United States). Staff
members are available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Eastern Time), and Saturday
and Sunday from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. (Eastern Time).
Thank you in advance for responding to this important survey.
Sincerely,
Emilda B. Rivers, Director
National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics
National Science Foundation
Your data will be kept strictly confidential and safeguarded in accordance with the Privacy Act of 1974
and the Confidential Information Protection and Statistical Efficiency Act of 2002. The OMB Control
number covering this collection is 3145-0020.

DRAFT as of May 14, 2021

Email 1B: Weeks 1, 5, 9, 13
Week 1: All others who did not get Email 1A; Weeks 5, 9, 13: All nonrespondents.
Sender: [email protected]
Email subject line: Invitation from NSF-NCSES

Dear Dr. {LAST NAME},
Within the last few days, we {mailed you a letter/sent you an email} inviting you to participate in
the 2021 Survey of Doctorate Recipients (SDR){IF WEEK 5 AND MAILED EARLY INCENTIVE IN WEEK
5: , including a {$10/$30} Visa® Prepaid Card}.
{WEEK 1: The SDR studies the experiences of doctorate degree holders, and is sponsored by the
National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics within the National Science Foundation and the
National Institutes of Health. This survey collects demographic, education, and career history
information from individuals with a U.S. research doctoral degree in a science, engineering, or health
field, whether they are working, retired, or seeking work./WEEK 5: Your response is critical to
helping to assess the supply and characteristics of U.S.-trained science, engineering, and health
doctorates, and also to understand the possible impacts of the coronavirus pandemic on the
doctorate population./WEEK 9: Whether you are working, retired, seeking work, or in some other
situation, the SDR seeks to represent all U.S.-trained doctorate degree holders in science,
engineering, and health disciplines./WEEK 13: We know your time is valuable, and we would
greatly appreciate your participation to ensure that the survey results are accurate and
representative.}
The survey website is secure and all the information that you provide is strictly confidential and
protected by U.S. law. Click here to access the survey {WEEK 1: as soon as possible/WEEK 5:
today/WEEK 9: now/WEEK 13: in the next few days}. Alternately, you can:
1.

Click on the link: https://www.NSFsdr.org

2.

Enter your PIN: {WEBPIN}

If you are interested in learning more about the Survey of Doctorate Recipients, please visit
https://nsf.gov/statistics/srvydoctoratework/.
If you have any questions, email our survey contractor (Westat) at [email protected] or call 855460-5324 (toll-free in the United States) or 301-637-8195 (outside the United States). Staff
members are available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Eastern Time), and Saturday
and Sunday from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. (Eastern Time).
{IF WEEK 1 AND HARD/HOSTILE: This is the only email we will be sending you regarding the SDR,
and we hope you will consider responding to the survey.}
Sincerely,
{IF WEEK 1: Emilda B. Rivers, Director
National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics
National Science Foundation
IF WEEKS 5, 9, 13: Daniel Foley, Survey Manager
Survey of Doctorate Recipients

DRAFT as of May 14, 2021

National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics
National Science Foundation}
Your data will be kept strictly confidential and safeguarded in accordance with the Privacy Act
of 1974 and the Confidential Information Protection and Statistical Efficiency Act of 2002. The
OMB Control number covering this collection is 3145-0020.
{WEEK 5 AND MAILED EARLY INCENTIVE IN WEEK 5: Use your Visa Prepaid Card anywhere Visa
debit cards are accepted around the world. The Visa Card is issued by The Bancorp Bank, Member
FDIC, pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. Pay close attention to the expiration date of the
Card.}

DRAFT as of May 14, 2021

Email 2: Weeks 2, 6, 10, 14
Weeks 2, 6, and 10: All nonrespondents; Week 14: All others who did not get Email P.
Sender: [email protected]
Email subject line: NSF-NCSES Request

Dear Dr. {LAST NAME},
Recently, we {mailed/emailed} you a request for your participation in the 2021 Survey of Doctorate
Recipients{WEEK 6 AND MAILED EARLY INCENTIVE IN WEEK 5: , including a {$10/$30} Visa®
Prepaid Card}. If you have already completed the survey, thank you for your assistance and please
disregard this message. If you have not had an opportunity to participate in the survey, please
complete the survey online {WEEK 2: as soon as possible/WEEK 6: today/WEEK 10: now/WEEK 14:
in the next few days}.
To respond to the survey online, click here or:
1.

Go to the website: https://www.NSFsdr.org

2.

Enter your PIN: {WEBPIN}

You were scientifically selected for this survey and your experiences are unique, so we cannot
substitute anyone else for you. To learn more about the Survey of Doctorate Recipients, please visit
https://nsf.gov/statistics/srvydoctoratework/.
The survey website is secure and all the information that you provide is strictly confidential and
protected by U.S. law.
If you have any questions, email our survey contractor (Westat) at [email protected] or call 855460-5324 (toll-free in the United States) or 301-637-8195 (outside the United States). Staff
members are available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Eastern Time), and Saturday
and Sunday from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. (Eastern Time).
Sincerely,
{IF WEEK 2: Emilda B. Rivers, Director
National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics
National Science Foundation
IF WEEK 6, 10, 14: Daniel Foley, Survey Manager
Survey of Doctorate Recipients
National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics
National Science Foundation}
Your data will be kept strictly confidential and safeguarded in accordance with the Privacy Act
of 1974 and the Confidential Information Protection and Statistical Efficiency Act of 2002. The
OMB Control number covering this collection is 3145-0020.
{IF WEEK 6 AND MAILED EARLY INCENTIVE IN WEEK 5: Use your Visa Prepaid Card anywhere Visa
debit cards are accepted around the world. The Visa Card is issued by The Bancorp Bank, Member

DRAFT as of May 14, 2021

FDIC, pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. Pay close attention to the expiration date of the
Card.}

DRAFT as of May 14, 2021

Email 3: Week 17
All nonrespondents.
Sender: [email protected]
Email subject line: NSF is trying to reach you

Dear Dr. {LAST NAME},
Within the last few days, we {mailed you a letter/emailed you a request} to participate in the 2021
Survey of Doctorate Recipients{IF MAILED LATE INCENTIVE IN WEEK 17: , including a {$20/$30}
Visa® Prepaid Card}. This email provides a convenient way for you to get started. If you have
already completed the survey, thank you for your assistance and please disregard this message.
{INTERNATIONAL: Because your response is critical to the study's success, we are offering you a
brief 10-minute version of the online survey.}
The survey website is secure and all the information that you provide is strictly confidential and
protected by U.S. law. Click here to access the survey. Alternately, you can:
1.

Click on the link: https://www.NSFsdr.org

2.

Enter your PIN: {WEBPIN}

If you are interested in learning more about the Survey of Doctorate Recipients, please visit
https://nsf.gov/statistics/srvydoctoratework/.
If you have any questions, email our survey contractor (Westat) at [email protected] or call 855460-5324 (toll-free in the United States) or 301-637-8195 (outside the United States). Staff
members are available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Eastern Time), and Saturday
and Sunday from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. (Eastern Time).
Sincerely,
Daniel Foley, Survey Manager
Survey of Doctorate Recipients
National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics
National Science Foundation
Your data will be kept strictly confidential and safeguarded in accordance with the Privacy Act
of 1974 and the Confidential Information Protection and Statistical Efficiency Act of 2002. The
OMB Control number covering this collection is 3145-0020.
{IF MAILED LATE INCENTIVE IN WEEK 17: Use your Visa Prepaid Card anywhere Visa debit cards
are accepted around the world. The Visa Card is issued by The Bancorp Bank, Member FDIC,
pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. Pay close attention to the expiration date of the Card.}

DRAFT as of May 14, 2021

Email 4: Week 21
All nonrespondents.
Sender: [email protected]
Email subject line: NSF requests your help

Dear Dr. {LAST NAME},
Within the last few days, we {emailed you a request/{IF WEEK 21 NOT HIGH PRIORITY: mailed you
a letter/ IF WEEK 21 HIGH PRIORITY: sent you a FedEx}} to participate in the 2021 Survey of
Doctorate Recipients that is being conducted by our survey contractor, Westat. This email provides a
convenient way for you to get started. If you have already completed the survey, thank you for your
assistance and please disregard this message.
The survey website is secure and all the information that you provide is strictly confidential and
protected by U.S. law. Click here to access the survey. Alternately, you can:
1.

Click on the link: https://www.NSFsdr.org

2.

Enter your PIN: {WEBPIN}

If you are interested in learning more about the Survey of Doctorate Recipients, please visit
https://nsf.gov/statistics/srvydoctoratework/.
If you have any questions, email [email protected] or call 855-460-5324 (toll-free in the United
States) or 301-637-8195 (outside the United States). Staff members are available Monday through
Friday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Eastern Time), and Saturday and Sunday from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.
(Eastern Time).
Sincerely,
Daniel Foley, Survey Manager
Survey of Doctorate Recipients
National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics
National Science Foundation
Your data will be kept strictly confidential and safeguarded in accordance with the Privacy Act
of 1974 and the Confidential Information Protection and Statistical Efficiency Act of 2002. The
OMB Control number covering this collection is 3145-0020.

DRAFT as of May 14, 2021

Email 5: Weeks 18, 22
All nonrespondents.
Sender: [email protected]
Email subject line: NSF Reminder

Dear Dr. {LAST NAME},
Recently, we {mailed/emailed} you a request for your participation in the 2021 Survey of Doctorate
Recipients{WEEK 18: IF MAILED LATE INCENTIVE IN WEEK 17: , including a {$20/$30} Visa®
Prepaid Card}. If you have already completed the survey, thank you for your assistance and please
disregard this message. If you have not had an opportunity to participate in the survey, please
complete the survey online {WEEK 18: in the next few days/WEEK 22: now}.
{INTERNATIONAL: Because your response is critical to the study's success, we are offering you a
brief 10-minute version of the online survey.}
To respond to the survey online, click here or:
1.

Go to the website: https://www.NSFsdr.org

2.

Enter your PIN: {WEBPIN}

You were scientifically selected for this survey and your experiences are unique, so we cannot
substitute anyone else for you. To learn more about the Survey of Doctorate Recipients, please visit
https://nsf.gov/statistics/srvydoctoratework/.
The survey website is secure and all the information that you provide is strictly confidential and
protected by U.S. law.
If you have any questions, email our survey contractor (Westat) at [email protected] or call 855460-5324 (toll-free in the United States) or 301-637-8195 (outside the United States). Staff
members are available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Eastern Time), and Saturday
and Sunday from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. (Eastern Time).
Sincerely,
Daniel Foley, Survey Manager
Survey of Doctorate Recipients
National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics
National Science Foundation
Your data will be kept strictly confidential and safeguarded in accordance with the Privacy Act
of 1974 and the Confidential Information Protection and Statistical Efficiency Act of 2002. The
OMB Control number covering this collection is 3145-0020.
{WEEK 18: IF MAILED LATE INCENTIVE IN WEEK 17: Use your Visa Prepaid Card anywhere Visa
debit cards are accepted around the world. The Visa Card is issued by The Bancorp Bank, Member
FDIC, pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. Pay close attention to the expiration date of the
Card.}

DRAFT as of May 14, 2021

Email P: Weeks 14, 26 Partial Completes
All partial web completes.
Sender: [email protected]
Email subject line: NSF Deadline Reminder {CLOSE OUT DATE}

Dear Dr. {LAST NAME},
We are reaching out to ask for your help. We noticed that you started, but have not yet submitted
your responses to the 2021 Survey of Doctorate Recipients. We are nearing the end of the data
collection period and would like to include your responses. {WEEK 26: Your experiences are very
important to us and your answers may not be counted if you haven’t finished and submitted the
survey.}
{WEEK 26: IF WEEK 25 HIGH PRIORITY: Because your response is critical to the study's success, we
are offering you a brief 10-minute version of the online survey.}
Please go online in the next few days to finish and submit your survey by clicking here or:
1.

Go to the website: https://www.NSFsdr.org

2.

Enter your PIN: {WEBPIN}

The survey website is secure and all the information that you provide is strictly confidential and
protected by U.S. law.
If you have any questions, email our survey contractor (Westat) at [email protected] or call 855460-5324 (toll-free in the United States) or 301-637-8195 (outside the United States). Staff
members are available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Eastern Time), and Saturday
and Sunday from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. (Eastern Time).
Sincerely,
Daniel Foley, Survey Manager
Survey of Doctorate Recipients
National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics
National Science Foundation
Your data will be kept strictly confidential and safeguarded in accordance with the Privacy Act
of 1974 and the Confidential Information Protection and Statistical Efficiency Act of 2002. The
OMB Control number covering this collection is 3145-0020.

DRAFT as of May 14, 2021

Email LC: Week 26 Last Chance
All others who did not get Email P.
Sender: [email protected]
Email subject line: NSF trying to reach you

Over the last few months we have sent you several requests to participate in the 2021 Survey of
Doctorate Recipients (SDR). The 2021 SDR will be ending soon. To date, we have not received a
response from you. In the 2021 SDR, we ask for your input on how the coronavirus pandemic may
have affected your employment situation. Your response is important for completing that picture.
{USA WEEK 25 HIGH PRIORITY: Because your response is critical to the study's success, we are
offering you a brief 10-minute version of the online survey.}
To respond to the survey online, click here or:
1.

Go to the website: https://www.NSFsdr.org

2.

Enter your PIN: {WEBPIN}

If you have recently completed the survey, thank you very much. If you have not yet had an
opportunity to participate, please take a few moments to complete the survey now. We realize your
time is valuable, but we really need your participation for the survey results to be accurate and
representative.
Your response to this survey is important, regardless of whether you are retired, do not work, or
work in a field that differs from that of your education. The survey website is secure, and all the
information that you provide is strictly confidential and protected by U.S. law.
This is your last chance to help policymakers, researchers, your colleagues, and the public better
understand the impact of a doctorate education. To learn more about the Survey of Doctorate
Recipients, please visit https://nsf.gov/statistics/srvydoctoratework/.
If you have any questions, email our survey contractor (Westat) at [email protected] or call 855460-5324 (toll-free in the United States) or 301-637-8195 (outside the United States). Staff
members are available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Eastern Time), and Saturday
and Sunday from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. (Eastern Time).
Sincerely,
Daniel Foley, Survey Manager
Survey of Doctorate Recipients
National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics
National Science Foundation
Your data will be kept strictly confidential and safeguarded in accordance with the Privacy Act
of 1974 and the Confidential Information Protection and Statistical Efficiency Act of 2002. The
OMB Control number covering this collection is 3145-0020.

DRAFT as of May 14, 2021

Email NP: Ad hoc correspondence to non-primary email addresses
Sender: [email protected]
Email subject line: NSF trying to reach you

Dear Dr. {LAST NAME},
Our attempts to reach you at the email address and mailing address that we have on file have been
unsuccessful. Please contact Westat, our contractor, so we can update your contact information.
Phone: 855-460-5324 (toll free in the U.S.)
301-637-8195 (outside the U.S.)
Staff members are available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Eastern Time), and
Saturday and Sunday from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. (Eastern Time).
Thank you in advance, we look forward to receiving your call.
Sincerely,

Daniel Foley, Survey Manager
Survey of Doctorate Recipients
National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics
National Science Foundation


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AuthorElizabeth Smith
File Modified2021-05-24
File Created2021-05-24

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