The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) is the primary federal entity responsible for collecting, analyzing, and disseminating data related to education in the United States and other nations. Operating under the U.S. Department of Education and the Institute of Education Sciences (IES), NCES plays a vital role in providing accurate, reliable, and comprehensive statistics that inform education policy and practice.NCES covers all levels of education—from early childhood through postsecondary education—and tracks trends in student performance, school demographics, teacher workforce, financial expenditures, and more. The center also conducts large-scale assessments such as the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), often referred to as the “Nation’s Report Card.” With a commitment to transparency and data accessibility, NCES empowers educators, policymakers, researchers, and the public to make informed decisions that improve educational outcomes across the country.
