Google has launched a new feature in search results called Knowledge Graph cards, specifically for US college searches. When users look up 4-year colleges such as UCLA or Hamilton College, they will now see cards providing detailed information on admissions, costs, student life, and more.
These new cards have been developed to simplify the process of finding a suitable college, addressing a common challenge many face today. According to Google, “The process to find the right school for you can be confusing. Information is scattered across the internet, and it’s not always clear which factors to consider and which pieces of information will be most useful for your decision. In fact, 63 percent of recently-enrolled and prospective students say they have often felt lost when researching college or financial aid options.”
Instead of displaying the average tuition cost, Google presents the average cost after financial aid. To help assess the value of a college education, the cards also provide data on graduation rates and typical annual income a decade after enrollment.
Additional information featured includes statistics about the student body, notable alumni, and comparable colleges to offer a broader perspective on prospective schools. The data for these Knowledge Graph cards is gathered from public resources, including the U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard and Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).
Google collaborated with education researchers, nonprofit organizations, high school counselors, and admissions professionals to develop these new cards. The updated college search feature is currently accessible, particularly designed for mobile use, with some new features available on desktop as well.
