
Introduction
The National Survey of Early Care and Education (NSECE) Data Desk created this guide to help data users learn about Level-2 Restricted-use (L2) data and processes. It thoroughly explains how to: 1) apply for L2 data use, 2) access L2 data, 3) conduct research within a designated workspace, and 4) protect against disclosure. The appendix includes samples of key documents relevant to each step. The content of the guide applies to analyses using L2 data from the 2012 NSECE, the 2019 NSECE, and both the 2012 and 2019 NSECE.
Purpose
This guide walks data users through the steps of applying for, accessing, using, and protecting National Survey of Early Care and Education (NSECE) Level-2 Restricted-use (L2) data.
Key Findings and Highlights
This guide provides step-by-step instructions for data users interested in working with NSECE Level-2 Restricted-use (L2) data.

Appendix
Appendix
The appendices include:
- NSECE Data Types
- Example of DUA Template
- NDA Template
- Guidelines and Information for L2 Access
- VPN Initial Setup
- L2 Reporting Guidelines
- L2 Extraction Checklist
- Disclosure Guidelines for L2 NSECE Users Working with Provider Clusters
Citation
National Survey of Early Care and Education Project Team (2022). National Survey of Early Care and Education (NSECE) Level-2 Restricted-use (L2) Data Application and Information Packet, OPRE Report No. 2022-53, Washington, DC: Office of Planning, Research, and Evaluation, Administration for Children and Families, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.