Common Data Set

The Common Data Set (CDS) initiative is a collaborative effort among data providers in the higher education community and publishers as represented by the College Board, Peterson's, and U.S. News & World Report. The combined goal of this collaboration is to improve the quality and accuracy of information provided to all involved in a student's transition into higher education, as well as to reduce the reporting burden on data providers.

The CDS is organized into the following sections:

  • A. General Information
  • B. Enrollment and Persistence (including retention and graduation rates)
  • C. First-Time, First-Year (Freshman) Admission
  • D. Transfer Admission
  • E. Academic Offerings and Policies
  • F. Student Life
  • G. Annual Expenses (i.e., tuition and fees)
  • H. Financial Aid
  • I. Instructional Faculty and Class Size
  • J. Degrees Conferred

Available Years: