Statistics on what students deem most important in USA colleges?

Hey guys! I'm currently doing some research and was wondering, where can I find some statistics about what students consider the most important when it comes to their colleges in the USA?

Finding comprehensive data about what students prioritize in their college selection process can be a somewhat challenging process since this kind of data isn't often publicly aggregated. However, there are some general trends and preferences that students often reveal when they're making their college choices.

The U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) is a body that periodically conducts student-focused studies to identify trends in college selection. Their annual reports might provide you with useful information.

Another source of information are surveys conducted by institutions such as UCLA's Higher Education Research Institute (HERI). Their annual Freshman Survey draws data from a large pool of respondents across the United States and seeks to document the characteristics and college expectations of first-year college students.

Additionally, organizations like the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) publish yearly reports that might contain relevant data. They usually report on what factors colleges consider to be the most important in their admissions decisions, but they've also researched what students value most when applying to and choosing colleges.

Keep in mind that what students deem important can vary greatly. Costs, academic programs, internship opportunities, campus culture, location, campus size, financial aid packages, and sports-related opportunities are some of the many factors that come into play during the college-selection process. Currently, due to the drastic impacts of the ongoing pandemic, many students are prioritizing colleges that offer flexible learning options, like online and hybrid models.

Further comprehensive data can often only be accessed through specific schools or subscription-based services. You may need to reach out directly to colleges or universities for their specific data, or look towards private research firms for more detailed study.