Studica offers three versions of IBM SPSS Statistics student software: Grad Pack Base, Grad Pack Standard, and Grad Pack Premium. Since back to school time is quickly approaching, we wanted to share this helpful guide to picking out the best version for you. You will find that each course requires very specific software features. For example, your class might require access to binary logistics or a regression feature. This is where choosing the correct student version becomes so important. Because, if you purchase the Base version, you will not get those features. The aim of this post is to clarify the differences between each version of IBM SPSS Statistics. This will help you make an informed decision regarding the version to purchase for your class.

Compare IBM SPSS Statistics Versions

This handy table outlines each of the three different versions and the features associated with them. Definitions of each feature code are available to make this easier. Be sure to cross-check the feature code information and the table below to determine the features you need. This makes it easy to find the version that’s right for you.

On the list of feature codes, you’ll notice that every feature code lists each of the items included for that feature. I know “IBM SPSS Regression” might not mean much to you. So, you’ll want to consult the documentation to figure out what’s included with the Regression feature.

Why is the Version So Important?

The reason is because specific features are not for sale. For instance,  you buy the Grad Pack Base and find out your class needs the Regression option. You cannot simply purchase the SPSS Regression feature separately and add it to your license. If you purchase Grad Pack Base, you only have access to SPSS Statistics and SPSS Statistics feature codes. There are no Regression, Advanced Statistics, or any of the additional features listed in the table. Basically, choose wisely. They are not easy upgrade options. If you find yourself with the wrong version on your hands and need to purchase a different version, contact Studica and we’ll help you find out what options are available for getting the version you need.

Another thing to point out, each higher version of Statistics contains all the feature codes from the prior version. Grad Pack Standard includes everything from Grad Pack Base and includes Advanced Statistics and Regression. Grad Pack Premium contains everything from Standard and Base, and adds on a number of extra features.

Which Version of IBM SPSS Should I Buy?

In my experience working with Studica’s student customers, Statistics Standard seems to be the safest bet. Many statistics professors utilize Regression and Multivariate Analysis. Both of these features are included in Statistics Standard. I’ve had very few customers needing the upgrade from Standard to Premium. However, I have had a number of customers that need to upgrade from Base to Standard.

In general, most of the customers I’ve dealt with are Graduate students working towards a Master’s or PhD degree. I do not know what courses they are taking that require these features, but I am trying to provide as much information as possible. If you are unsure of what your professor is going to have you using the software for, I think IBM SPSS Statistics Grad Pack Standard is the safest option. To get student discounts on IBM SPSS software, shop www.studica.com/IBMSPSS.

Blogger: Mark Philipp, Application Engineer at Studica