The SPARCS program is committed to the timely processing of data requests, subject to the receipt of all necessary documentation and the complexity of the application, which includes research objectives, methodology, data elements, and linkages. Upon submission of your application, please regularly check your email, including spam and junk folders, for communications from the SPARCS team.
All applications undergo a standard review process, including completeness, soundness, and security checks. Identifiable requests are subject to further review by the Data Governance Committee. For detailed information on the review stages for each type of data request, please take a look at the following articles identifiable application timeline and limited application timeline.
The duration of the review process depends on the timely submission of review documents by applicants and staff evaluations. On average, the review and approval process for an identifiable request spans five months, with some applications requiring anywhere from two to eighteen months or longer for completion. On average, the review and approval process for a limited request spans four months, with some applications requiring anywhere from two to ten months or longer for completion. To expedite the review, applicants should ensure all documentation is complete and submitted promptly.