What is the 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."

In sum, the CDS is a set of questions about higher education institutions typically found on many surveys where participation is required or voluntarily. In some instances, submitting our CDS replaces having to complete a survey.

In all cases, our annual CDS data will not change until the next collection reducing the chance for error when used.

Click here to learn more about the Common Data Set Initiative.

Who uses the Common Data Set?

External organizations use CDS to compare EWU with other institutions. Since the requirements of the CDS can change from year to year, EWU departments should not use the CDS for their own business intelligence needs. We can provide custom solutions for EWU departments.

What data are in the Common Data Set?

The CDS includes:

• General College Information
• Enrollment and Persistence
• First-Time, First-Year (Freshman) Admissions
• Transfer Admissions
• Academic Offerings and Policies
• Student Life
• Annual Expenses
• Financial Aid
• Instructional Faculty and Class Size
• Degrees Conferred by Disciplinary Areas