Reliable college admissions data are vital for students, families, and policymakers to make informed decisions about higher education. The US Department of Education’s proposed expansion of admissions data collection through the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) seeks to enhance transparency around college access. However, if implemented too quickly or without clear standards, it could unintentionally compromise data accuracy and comparability. Because many college search tools rely on high-quality IPEDS information, any decline in reliability could affect how millions of students and families evaluate college opportunities. Ensuring that new data are consistent and clearly defined is essential to maintaining public trust and supporting sound postsecondary education decisions.