When it comes to applying to college, understanding how institutions view test scores can be a crucial part of the admissions process. The Common Data Set (CDS) is a valuable resource for uncovering how colleges use test scores in their decision-making, and section C9 is particularly insightful. This section provides detailed information about the importance of standardized tests, the percentage of enrolled students who submitted scores, and a breakdown of accepted students by score range.
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Here’s how to leverage the CDS C9 to make informed decisions about submitting test scores to your target schools:
What Is the Common Data Set (C9)?
The Common Data Set is a standardized form that colleges and universities complete to provide detailed institutional data. Section C9 focuses specifically on test scores, such as the SAT and ACT, and includes:
- The percentage of students who enrolled with test scores.
- The range of test scores for admitted students.
- How colleges weigh test scores in the admissions process.
Understanding this information can help students and families decide whether submitting scores will strengthen an application.
Step 1: Find the Percentage of Enrolled Students with Test Scores
In section C9 of the CDS, colleges report the percentage of enrolled students who submitted test scores. This is critical for understanding how "test-optional" policies may work in practice.
- For example, if 80% of enrolled students submitted test scores, it’s clear that test scores still play a significant role at that institution, even if they claim to be test-optional.
- Conversely, if only 20% of enrolled students submitted test scores, test-optional applicants may be on more equal footing.
What to Look For:
- A high percentage of test score submissions indicates that test scores likely enhance an application.
- A lower percentage suggests that other factors (e.g., GPA, essays) may carry more weight.
Listed below is the University of Pennsylvania's Common Data Set for admissions for the 2023-2024 year. While UPenn has a "test optional" policy, 70% of all enrolled students came in with a test score.
Step 2: Review the Test Score Range Breakdown
Colleges provide a breakdown of admitted students’ scores by percentile ranges in C9. These ranges can help you understand the test scores they truly value.
Example of Score Ranges:
-
SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing:
- 700-800: 25% of admitted students
- 600-699: 50% of admitted students
- 500-599: 20% of admitted students
- Below 500: 5% of admitted students
-
ACT Composite:
- 30-36: 35% of admitted students
- 24-29: 40% of admitted students
- 18-23: 20% of admitted students
- Below 18: 5% of admitted students
What This Means:
- If the majority of admitted students fall within the top score ranges, submitting scores below that range might not be advantageous unless accompanied by exceptional strengths in other areas of the application.
- For students with scores that match or exceed the top range, submitting scores could significantly strengthen their application.
Below is an example on how the Common Data Set can show you more specifically how a school accepts students on by test score. The example below is the University of Florida, which has a "test required" policy. By combining the information on the 25th, 50th and 75th Percentile and percentage of students who got into by score range, you can determine what scores they are wanting to accept.
Step 3: Determine the Role of Test Scores in Admissions
C7 also indicates the importance of test scores in admissions decisions, categorized as:
- Very Important
- Important
- Considered
- Not Considered
This information can clarify how much weight a college places on standardized testing relative to other factors like GPA, extracurriculars, and essays.
What to Look For:
- Schools that mark test scores as "Very Important" or "Important" are more likely to value strong scores in competitive admissions.
- Schools that list test scores as "Not Considered" truly operate as test-blind institutions, where scores have no influence on admissions decisions.
Listed below is the University of Tennessee Common Data Set C7, showing that "Standardized Test Scores" are just as important in their admissions criteria as rigor of high school courses and GPA.
Why This Matters for Students and Families
Using the CDS allows you to make data-driven decisions about submitting test scores. If your scores align with or exceed the ranges provided, submitting them can boost your application. However, if your scores fall below the typical range, you might consider withholding them and focusing on other parts of your application.
For test-optional schools, the percentage of enrolled students with submitted scores is a telling indicator of how much weight scores still carry. This insight can guide your application strategy and give you a competitive edge.
How to Access the Common Data Set
Many colleges publish their CDS on their institutional research or admissions websites. Simply search "[College Name] Common Data Set" to locate it. Focus on Section C9 for test score information, and use other sections in C to learn more about admissions criteria.
Final Thoughts
The Common Data Set C9 is a powerful tool for demystifying how colleges use standardized test scores in admissions. By analyzing the percentage of test-submitting students, test score ranges, and the importance colleges assign to scores, you can develop a clear strategy for whether to include test scores in your application.
At Method Learning, we’re here to help you navigate every step of the college admissions process. Whether you’re deciding on submitting test scores or preparing for your next SAT or ACT, our expert resources and classes can guide you toward success.
How Method Learning Supports You
At Method Learning, we understand that every student’s journey is different. That’s why we offer flexible, personalized resources to help you succeed, whether you choose to submit test scores or not.
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Our state-of-the-art online courses are designed to help you master the material and build confidence. With dozens of short lessons, quizzes, and practice tests, you can study at your own pace and focus on the areas where you need the most improvement.
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For students who thrive with guidance, our expert-led classes provide customized support. Our teachers are extensively trained in ACT and SAT study methods and can help you navigate the test prep process with ease.
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Our platform provides detailed progress tracking, helping you identify strengths and areas for growth. This data-driven approach ensures you’re making the most of your study time.
