COMMON DATA SET
Navigating the college admissions process can be overwhelming for high school students. Because every application is different, the decision-making process can seem unclear. However, students can access a valuable resource called the Common Data Set (CDS) to help them understand what colleges seek.
The CDS is a comprehensive document that provides information on colleges, with Section C7 being especially important for high school students. In this section, students can find helpful information to help them make informed decisions about their post-secondary plans. This guide shared by colleges has a wealth of information, including admission statistics and financial aid details. It serves as a roadmap for students, allowing them to gain insights into the factors influencing college admissions decisions. Section C7 is particularly helpful, providing information on the criteria colleges prioritize in the admission process.
In section C7, you will find information on what college admissions experts are looking for in an application, including:
Specifically, underclassmen should leverage Section C7 to understand the factors colleges prioritize in the admission process, enabling them to plan their academic and extracurricular pursuits strategically. The CDS allows underclassmen to explore preferences related to high school curriculum and gain early exposure to colleges’ considerations of unique talents, providing a roadmap for setting academic goals and aligning their development with the expectations of their desired institutions. Overall, the CDS empowers underclassmen to make informed decisions and take proactive steps in preparing for their post-secondary plans.
If you’re interested in finding a particular college’s Common Data Set (CDS), you can easily access it by conducting an online search. All you need to do is type in the name of the college followed by “Common Data Set” in your preferred search bar. The CDS typically contains a wealth of information, including data on enrollment, admissions, financial aid, graduation rates, and student demographics. By reviewing the CDS, you can gain valuable insights into the college’s policies, academic programs, and student body.
The CDS covers some additional resources that can also be very beneficial:
A. General Information
B. Enrollment & Persistence
C. First-Time, First-year Admissions
D. Transfer Admission
E. Academic Offerings & Policies
F. Student Life
G. Annual Expenses
H. Financial Aid
I. Instructional Faculty & Class Size
J. Degrees Conferred