Common Data Set

Navigating the college admissions process can be overwhelming, with countless factors to consider—test scores, GPA, extracurriculars, and course rigor, to name a few. Many students and families struggle to find reliable data that can help them assess their chances at different schools. This is where the Common Data Set (CDS) becomes an invaluable tool. The CDS is a standardized annual report compiled by colleges and universities that provides a transparent look at institutional priorities, admissions statistics, and academic expectations. By reviewing this data, students can make informed decisions about where to apply, how to strengthen their applications, and what schools genuinely look for in prospective students. Understanding the CDS demystifies the admissions process and empowers students to align their academic and extracurricular choices with college expectations as early as possible.

Why the Common Data Set Matters

The CDS is a crucial tool for:

• Students and Families: It reveals key admissions statistics such as average GPAs, standardized test scores, and the importance of extracurricular activities.

• High School Counselors are a reliable resource for guiding students through their college application strategies.

• College Admissions Professionals: Institutions use it to benchmark their data against peer schools.

• Researchers and Journalists: It helps analyze higher education and admissions policy trends.

The Most Helpful Sections for Applicants

While the entire Common Data Set contains valuable information, Sections C7-C9 are particularly useful for future applicants. These sections detail what colleges prioritize in their admissions process and provide a snapshot of admitted students’ academic profiles.

 Section C7: What Colleges Look For in Applicants

Section C7 outlines the relative importance of various factors in admissions decisions. Colleges assign each criterion a level of significance, such as “Very Important,” “Important,” Considered,” or “Not Considered.”

• Academic Factors: GPA, standardized test scores, rigor of coursework, and class rank.

• Non-Academic Factors: Extracurricular activities, recommendations, interviews, character/personal qualities, and volunteer work.