College Success Factors Index

In use by colleges and universities for over ten years, the College Success Factors Index (CSFI) is an instrument containing 80 self-scoring statements designed to determine the readiness of high school juniors/seniors and college students to successfully complete their early years in higher education. 

Many factors make for academic success in universities and colleges throughout the country. Most notably, grade point average in high school and aptitude scores, such as SAT or ACT scores, seem to be the best predictors of success in colleges and universities. However, additional factors which are often unmeasured have a very important place in the retention of students and their continuing success in higher education. For example, how a student uses his time, or approaches the tasks assigned, may be more critical to success than previous academic records.

With this in mind, we have developed the College Success Factors Index (CSFI), which measures eight of the most important factors which contribute to academic success. 

The CSFI is designed to show not only overall scores, but also to demonstrate a breakdown of these eight important factors individually. The survey is intended to have practical predictive value for anyone working with college bound and first-year students. As a diagnostic instrument, the CSFI allows educators to review scores in reference to a criterion success line, which is called the "watchline." 

The CSFI can be utilized and implemented in a variety of ways. It has been used for pre- and post-testing in FYE classes, as a transitional measurement for students from high school to college, and as a tool for faculty training. 

How is the survey packaged and implemented?
Three versions of the CSFI are available.

Booklets: The booklet is self-scored and a profile is provided on page 4 in each booklet for the individual student and counselor/instructor.

Software (for Windows): When large numbers of students take the survey, we suggest using the CSFI scantron software and scan forms. The results can be scored on a same-day basis offering individual printouts within hours. The printout includes the student's total and sub-test scores, and a bar chart to assist the student or instructor in understanding areas which are good, average or need improvement.

CSFI Online: In affiliation with Wadsworth Publishing, the CSFI is now available on the Internet. For more information, and frequently asked questions, about the CSFI Online click here.

Links: For CSFI research & technical data. For CSFI Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ). For the Internet version of the CSFI. For a list of prices to the CSFI. If you have further questions concerning any of our products and services, contact us. 

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