Rolling vs. regular decision: What's the difference?

I'm a bit confused about how rolling decision works compared to regular decision. Could someone explain how they differ and what might be the best choice if I'm applying to a college?

Sure, I'd be happy to clarify the differences between rolling admissions and regular decision.

Rolling Admissions is a policy where the college evaluates applications as they are received. This means the college doesn't wait until all the applications are submitted by a specified deadline. If you apply to a school with a rolling admissions policy, you could potentially hear back within a few weeks of submitting your completed application. The timeframe for decisions might vary depending on the school. However, the key is that decisions are made continuously over the application period.

Regular Decision, on the other hand, operates on a more traditional timeline. All applications must be completed and submitted by the college's specified deadline. Admissions officers at the school then review all submitted applications over the following months and make decisions all at once, typically in the spring. Under regular decision, you're most likely to hear back from the school around March or April.

In terms of which path is the right choice for you, it depends on your circumstances. Here are a few things to consider:

1. If you already have a strong application ready early in the school year, rolling admissions might be a good option. This could be a great way to secure an admission spot early.

2. If you want to compare financial aid packages from different schools, regular decision might be the best option for you since most of these schools release their decisions - along with financial aid offers - around the same time.

3. If you need more time to strengthen your application (for example, you’re waiting for first semester senior year grades), regular decision could be a better fit since these deadlines are typically later in the school year. It's important to note that applying early (whether rolling or regular) often is beneficial because spots might fill up as the decision period progresses.

It's always a great idea to balance your college list with a mix of schools that have varying levels of selectivity and different admissions timelines (early action, early decision, rolling, and regular decision), so you have options when it comes decision time.