About the Survey
The Indiana College Substance Use Survey has been serving Indiana institutions of higher education since 2009. Funded by the Indiana Division of Mental Health and Addiction (DMHA), the survey collects data on the prevalence of substance use and other risk behaviors among Indiana college students. The survey was developed by the Indiana Collegiate Action Network (ICAN) and the Indiana Prevention Resource Center (IPRC), with input from Indiana institutions of higher education and the Indiana State Epidemiology and Outcomes Workgroup. The survey assesses substance use and consequences, variables associated with use (availability, peer attitudes and norms, and age of first use), mental health, and gambling behaviors.
The on-line survey is administered in the spring of odd-numbered years. It is provided at no-cost to all Indiana institutions of higher education.
Purpose of the Survey
The Indiana College Substance Use Survey is intended to provide meaningful data at both the campus and state levels, to understand substance use problems and develop effective plans for reducing substance use by college students.
Administering the Survey
- Each participating college sends an invitation email to the students they want to invite, providing the url to access the survey.
- Colleges should check with their Internal Review Board on required procedures for approval of administering the survey.
- Colleges can add an incentive (such as a chance to win a gift card) which will be added at the end of the survey.
Tips for increasing response rate Survey Timeline
Survey Questionnaire
The survey takes approximately 15 - 20 minutes to complete.
2025 ICSUS survey questionnaire
Custom Questions
Schools have the option to add up to 10 custom questions to their survey. We have a document listing questions on a variety of topics found on national surveys. You can choose from those or make up your own on any topic (does not have to be related to substance use).
Examples of items found on national and other surveys
New! Optional Modules
Schools have the option to add two additional modules should they choose to do so. One module collects additional data on mental health; the other module focuses on general health/wellbeing. Schools may still add up to 10 custom questions regardless of if they choose to add either or both of the optional modules.
Optional Mental Health Module Optional Wellness Module
School Survey Reports
Each participating school will receive a report of their results, highlighting major findings among their students. These data can provide important information to school administrators and guide their decision making on school policies, prevention programs, and collaboration with community partners. The State also benefits from the survey, receiving a statewide report of results which they use to guide planning and prevention efforts across Indiana.
Tips for Community Members to Advocate for the Survey
This flyer provides tips for community members in recruiting colleges in their community to participate in the survey.
