How are applications processed?
Each student’s application is matched with the pastor reference. Several points from the application and several points from the pastor reference are combined to create a profile score. The registrar uses an algorithm to ensure that personal preferences or biases do not influence the process, treating every application equally. On September 20, applicants are sorted by profile score (from highest to lowest) and gender. The highest-scoring applicants in each gender group are considered “in,” while the remaining applicants are placed on the waiting list. CBS can accommodate 40 men and 42 women in Terms 1 and 2, and a total of 65 students in Term 3.
What are the main points of the algorithm used to create a profile score?
The algorithm is not public knowledge. While most applicants are 17, 18, or 19 at the time of application, age is used as a factor. Other elements that contribute to the profile score are whether or not you are a previous CBS student, if you applied last year and did not get in, and whether or not you are a current school teacher. If you are 17 at the time you apply and applying for both terms 1 and 2, you possibly will end up on the waitlist for one of those terms.
Does the algorithm give more points for PKs applying for multiple terms? The algorithm does not include any metrics for PKs. Youth whose parents are pastors do not get priority but are treated just like any other applicant. Applying for multiple terms does not add points to your profile score.
I stayed up until midnight on July 31 and applied, why am I on the waiting list?
While the enthusiasm of applying at the earliest possible time is inspiring, the signup for CBS is not first come first served. All applications submitted between 8/1 and 9/1 are processed the same. You are welcome to apply after 9/1, but you will receive fewer points than those who applied earlier. Welcome letters and rosters are finalized around 9/20. After finalization, acceptance becomes first-come, first-served. If space is available for the term you've applied to, you will typically be enrolled. However, if the term has a waiting list, you'll be placed at the bottom of that list.