Data Usage Policy

1. Overview

This Data Usage Policy explains how CAA Readiness Index collects, uses, stores, and protects data submitted through our calculator and website. We are committed to transparency about our data practices and your rights regarding your information.

2. Data Collection Methods

2.1 Calculator Input Data

When you use our CRI Calculator, we collect:

Storage: This data is processed in real-time and stored locally in your browser using localStorage. It is NOT transmitted to or permanently stored on our servers.

2.2 Analytics Data

We use Google Analytics to collect anonymized usage data, including:

• Page views and navigation patterns
• Time spent on pages
• Approximate geographic location (country/region level)
• Device and browser type
• Referring websites

3. How We Use Your Data

3.1 Score Calculation

Your academic data is used exclusively to:

• Calculate your personalized CRI score using our proprietary algorithm
• Generate z-scores and percentile rankings
• Create distribution charts showing your position relative to other applicants
• Provide customized feedback and recommendations

3.2 Aggregate Analysis

We analyze aggregate, anonymized data to:

• Update trend analyses and historical comparisons
• Improve calculation accuracy
• Generate statistical insights for all users
• Identify patterns in applicant profiles

Note: Aggregate data cannot be traced back to individual users.

3.3 Service Improvement

Analytics data helps us:

• Optimize website performance and user experience
• Identify and fix technical issues
• Understand which features are most valuable
• Make data-driven decisions about new features

4. Data Storage and Retention

4.1 Local Storage (Your Browser)

4.2 Server Storage

Our servers store:

• Historical dataset: Anonymized aggregate data used for percentile calculations (no individual identifiers)
• Analytics data: Google Analytics stores anonymized usage data for 26 months
• Log files: Server logs retained for 90 days for security and troubleshooting

4.3 Data Retention Period

• Calculator input: Stored locally indefinitely (until you clear browser data)
• Analytics data: 26 months via Google Analytics
• Aggregate statistics: Retained indefinitely for research purposes
• Server logs: 90 days

5. Data Security Measures

We implement industry-standard security measures:

• HTTPS encryption: All data transmitted between your browser and our servers is encrypted
• Secure hosting: Our servers use enterprise-grade security infrastructure
• Access controls: Limited personnel access to any stored data
• Regular security audits: Periodic reviews of our security practices
• Anonymization: Personal identifiers stripped from any stored data

6. Third-Party Services

We use the following third-party services:

7. Your Data Control Options

You have full control over your data:

7.1 Clear Your Calculation Data

To remove your CRI calculation from your browser:

• Clear your browser's localStorage/cache
• Use private/incognito browsing mode
• Clear site data for caareadinessindex.com in browser settings

7.2 Opt Out of Analytics

To prevent Google Analytics tracking:

• Install the Google Analytics Opt-out Browser Add-on
• Enable "Do Not Track" in your browser settings
• Use browser extensions that block analytics scripts

7.3 Cookie Management

You can control cookies through your browser settings. Note that disabling cookies may affect website functionality.

8. Data Sharing and Disclosure

We may share anonymized, aggregate data:

• In published research or academic studies
• With educational institutions for statistical analysis (no individual data)
• In public reports about applicant trends

We may disclose data if required by law, court order, or to protect our legal rights.

9. Children's Data

Our service is intended for individuals 18 years or older, or those with parental consent. We do not knowingly collect data from children under 13. If we become aware of such collection, we will promptly delete the information.

10. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Data Usage Policy to reflect changes in our practices or legal requirements. We will post updates on this page with a revised "Last Updated" date. Significant changes will be prominently announced on our website.

11. Contact and Questions

If you have questions about our data practices or wish to exercise your data rights, contact us at:

12. Your Rights Summary