Common Data Set · Section C7

Which colleges consider special talent or ability in admissions?

Of the 143 colleges with Common Data Set filings in Trajecta's dataset, 29 rate special talent or ability very important in their admissions decisions, 62 rate it important, 47 considered, and 5 say it is not considered — as self-reported in each school's CDS section C7 ("Talent/ability").

What "Talent/ability" means

Talent/ability on the Common Data Set means exceptional, demonstrated skill in a specific area: recruited-athlete-level sports, conservatory-level music or art (usually shown through a portfolio or audition), published research, or national-level competition results. It is distinct from ordinary extracurricular involvement — this factor is about being unusually good at something, not merely active in it.

Important62 colleges, sorted by Trajecta rank

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Considered47 colleges, sorted by Trajecta rank

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Not Considered5 colleges, sorted by Trajecta rank

Special talent or ability: frequently asked questions

What counts as talent or ability on the Common Data Set?

Demonstrated excellence a college can verify: an art or music portfolio, an audition, athletic recruitment, published research, or top finishes in national competitions. Ordinary club membership counts under extracurricular activities instead — talent/ability is reserved for standout, evidence-backed skill.

How do you show special talent in a college application?

Through evidence, not adjectives: submit the arts supplement or portfolio where offered, list verifiable honors with their scope (state, national, international), and have a recommender who can speak to the level of the work. Colleges rate this factor highly precisely because it is hard to fake.