Final answer:
The admission database typically includes academic performance data like GPAs and standardized test scores to calculate an admissions index score for the top 12 percent of students, along with other materials showcasing student competencies and background information. Some universities have adopted a test-optional policy that considers a broader set of criteria.
Step-by-step explanation:
When applying for admission to a university, such as those in the University of California system, the admission database typically includes a variety of data. For incoming freshmen, this includes academic performance, represented by GPAs, and scores from standardized tests like the SATs and ACTs. These metrics are used in a formula to calculate an admissions index score, which sets eligibility standards intended to sift through the applicant pool and admit the top 12 percent of high school students state-wide. In the context of college admissions, the top 12 percent refers to students who are at or above the 88th percentile, meaning they scored higher than 88 percent of their peers. Additional entries might showcase a student's ability to participate in activities at their Learning Management Center (LMC), character traits important for success, and their fit within the educational program. Furthermore, some schools have adopted a test-optional approach, taking into account factors beyond standardized test scores due to the recognition of disparities in these assessments. The overall profile in the admissions database can also include other relevant information such as socioeconomic status, family background, and extracurricular activities.