How can I convert an SPSS file to a SAS data set?

You have several options for getting data stored in SPSS format read into SAS. From SAS, you can read SPSS files directly through the IMPORT procedure. In addition, SPSS can write a SAS file, and programs such as Stat/Transfer can translate files from one package to another.

The PROC IMPORT procedure

The following SAS program will read an SPSS file saved in the C: directory and store it as a temporary file in the SAS WORK library:

To save the data as a SAS permanent file, replace work in the OUT= option with the name of a previously defined library.

The SPSS graphical interface

Open your data in SPSS. To create a SAS file, from the File menu, click Save As... . Change the "File of Type" to SAS, and click Save.

Stat/Transfer

You can use Stat/Transfer to translate files between SAS and SPSS. At Indiana University, it is available on Libra, Quarry, and the Windows Student Technology Center (STC) computers.

For more information about statistical and mathematical software, email the UITS Stat/Math Center, visit the center's web page, or phone 812-855-4724 (IUB) or 317-278-4740 (IUPUI). The center is located in Bloomington at 410 N. Park Avenue, and is open for consultation by appointment Monday-Friday 9am-5pm.

Also see:

• Finding help for statistical and mathematical computing at IU