The college admissions process can be overwhelming. There are so many factors to consider when choosing the right institution for your future (acceptance rate, academic strengths, extracurricular offerings, location, campus culture, research opportunities, and so much more). Fortunately, there is a valuable resource that can help you navigate some quantitative aspects of this complex journey: the Common Data Set (CDS).
WHAT IS THE COMMON DATA SET?
The Common Data Set, often referred to as CDS, is a standardized questionnaire that colleges and universities across the United States complete annually. It is designed to provide consistent and comprehensive data on various aspects of each institution, making it easier for prospective students, parents, and researchers to compare and evaluate colleges and universities. The CDS is divided into several sections, each focusing on different aspects of a school’s operations and demographics. These sections typically include information on admission statistics, enrollment figures, financial aid, and academic programs.
WHY DOES THE COMMON DATA SET EXIST?
The primary purpose of the Common Data Set is to promote transparency and facilitate informed decision-making for all stakeholders involved in the college admissions process. Here are a few key reasons why the CDS exists:
- Standardization: The CDS ensures that colleges and universities report data consistently. This standardization allows for apples-to-apples comparisons between institutions, making it easier for prospective students and their families to assess their options.
- Accessibility: By making this data publicly available, the CDS promotes transparency and accessibility. Anyone interested in higher education can access valuable information without having to navigate through multiple websites or request information directly from each institution.
- Informed Decision-Making: Prospective students and their families can use the CDS to gain insights into critical factors such as admission rates, graduation rates, financial aid availability, and student demographics. This information helps families make informed decisions about which colleges align with their goals and preferences.
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HOW TO USE THE COMMON DATA SET
Using the Common Data Set effectively can simplify your college search process.
Common Data Set: Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make the most of this resource:
Locate the CDS
You can typically find the Common Data Set for a specific college or university on their official website. Look for a section dedicated to institutional research or data.
On the Yale University website, for example, you can access these reports here.
Explore the Sections
The CDS is organized into various sections, each covering different aspects of the institution. Start by reviewing the sections that are most relevant to your needs. Common sections to check include A (General Information), B (Enrollment and Persistence), C (First-Time, First-Year Admission), and D (Transfer Admission).If you were interested in transferring to Yale, for example, you would want to pay particular attention to section D, which highlights the number of students who applied, were admitted, and enrolled as degree-seeking transfer students in Fall 2022 (a grand total of 32).
Compare Institutions
If you’re considering multiple colleges or universities, gather CDS reports for each of them. This will allow you to make side-by-side comparisons of key metrics and statistics.
You might use this information to compare the number of transfer students admitted to Brown University (152) versus Harvard University (15).
Analyze the Data
Pay close attention to the information provided in each section. Look for details like admission requirements, acceptance rates, student-to-faculty ratios, and financial aid options. It will also tell you whether or not the school tracks demonstrated interest. This data can help you evaluate whether an institution aligns with your academic and financial goals.
Top Tier Tip: Look at the “First-Time, First-Year (Freshman) Admission” section to see how your academic credentials stack up against the average admitted student. This is an especially powerful tool to discern how “optional” a school’s test-optional policy really is.
Seek Additional Information
The Common Data Set is a powerful tool that helps make the college search process more transparent. While the CDS provides a wealth of information, it does not cover every aspect of a college or university or contextualize the data as it informs your unique background and admissions journey. For personalized guidance and an expert strategy, work with our team of senior private counselors who can help you make informed decisions about your educational future.
Liz graduated Magna Cum Laude with high honors from Dartmouth College and earned her MA and PhD in Art History at the University of Virginia, where she taught undergraduate courses, earned the All-University Graduate Teaching Award, and received a Fulbright Research Grant.
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