Hidden in Plain Sight: “CDS” Reports are a Go-To for Building College Lists
Most universities and colleges provide information relevant to college search, applications, and financial aid in a common format that can be compared across schools.
Every college applicant wants a compelling profile, but how do they know whether to prioritize test prep or extracurriculars? If you’re looking at universities in the Boston area, for example, it would be good to know that standardized test scores are rated “very important” in Northeastern’s admissions process, while at Boston College they are only “considered.”
Are public universities on your radar, but you’re worried about tuition payments stretching beyond 4 years? Michigan's 4-year graduation rate is 81%, while Pitt’s is 69%. What about the financial aid? Drexel is relatively generous with non-need-based aid. Lehigh, not so much.
Comparisons like these—and more—can be gleaned from the schools’ Common Data Set (CDS) reports. Googling “common data set [school name]” provides a trove of data beyond what is available on college websites. For example, UMass Amherst’s report provides detail on the “Relative importance of academic and non-academic factors” in the admissions process, which can be important in tailoring an application strategy. Class rigor and GPA are “very important,” while standardized test scores are “considered.” Extracurricular activities, demonstrating talent/ability, and character/personal qualities are all “important,” as is work experience. “Level of applicant’s interest” is also considered, so schedule a school tour and follow up with an email to the admissions officer for your region!
CDS reports also shed light on merit aid potential. From UMass Amherst’s CDS Financial Aid data, we know that 68% of full-time freshmen received non-need-based aid, which is a significantly higher percentage than at most public universities. The average non-need based award was $8,000, amounting to 20% of out-of-state tuition and fees.
So before adding a school to your list or hitting the road for a college visit, take a few minutes to download the CDS. You’ll be better informed and ready with questions for your tour and beyond.