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, part of the Thompson Corporation, 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 Common Data Set is available for the following years:
| 2012-2013 | 2004-2005 |
| 2011-2012 | 2003-2004 |
| 2010-2011 | 2002-2003 |
| 2009-2010 | 2001-2002 |
| 2008-2009 | 2000-2001 |
| 2007-2008 | 1999-2000 |
| 2006-2007 | 1998-1999 |
| 2005-2006 | 1997-1998 |
Note: If you are having trouble viewing these Common Data Set PDF files, please make sure that you have the most recent version of Adobe Acrobat Reader or you can right-click over the Common Data Set icon, select "Save Target As" and then save the Common Data Set to your hard drive or desk top in order to view.