What's the Hofstra common data set?

I was researching Hofstra University, and I came across the phrase 'common data set'. I'm not sure what it is or why it's important. Could someone explain what the Hofstra common data set is and how it could be useful for me when looking at colleges?

The Common Data Set (CDS) is a standardized collection of data points that colleges and universities report each year. It covers a wide range of topics, such as admissions statistics, enrollment figures, financial aid data, and information about the faculty and resources at the institution. The purpose of the CDS is to make it easier to compare schools by providing a consistent set of data across institutions.

In the context of Hofstra University, the Hofstra Common Data Set (CDS) is a valuable resource for understanding the profile of the school and its student body. Here are some areas where the Hofstra CDS can be useful for you:

1. Admissions: The CDS will provide information on the number of applicants, accepted students, and enrolled students. You can also find data about the average high school GPA, standardized test scores, and other factors that could influence your admission chances.

2. Financial Aid: The CDS can give you insight into the average financial aid package offered by Hofstra, including grants, scholarships, and loans. It also provides the percentage of students receiving aid and the average amount of aid received.

3. Demographics: You'll find details on student demographics, such as the gender breakdown and the percentage of in-state vs. out-of-state and international students. This can help you understand the diversity and composition of the student body at Hofstra.

4. Graduation & Retention Rates: The CDS shows the graduation rate of students within four, five, and six years and the retention rate of first-year students. These statistics can give you a sense of the university's overall student success.

5. Class Size & Faculty: You can find information on class sizes and student-to-faculty ratios, which can give you an idea of the learning environment and whether you'd be in small, intimate classes or larger lecture halls.

To access the Hofstra Common Data Set, you can visit the University's Institutional Research and Strategic Analysis website: https://www.hofstra.edu/institutional-research-strategic-analysis/

Since the data is standardized, you can also use it to compare Hofstra University with other colleges you might be considering in your college search, helping you make an informed decision.