The collection of dropout statistics is discussed from the perspective of the National Education Longitudinal Study of 1988 (NELS:88). The NELS:88 follows a cohort of 1988 eighth graders over time and is designed to provide trend data about transitions experienced as students progress through the educational system. Dropout statistics are provided for each year, for those who have not finished school at any given point and for the cohort as a whole. The concept of a dropout has been operationalized to distinguish those who are not enrolled in some alternative education. The ways in which the NELS:88 remedies weaknesses of the High School and Beyond study are reviewed, centering on the more accurate estimates provided by confirmation from school enrollment and demographic data. Data from longitudinal cohort studies similar to the NELS:88 make more meaningful analysis of educational trends possible. Three appendices provide supplemental information about survey methodology. (SLD)