Understanding Rolling Admissions for Colleges

I just learned about rolling admissions but I'm not sure how they work. Do all colleges offer this option, or is it only specific ones? How does this affect my chances of getting accepted and should I consider it?

Rolling admissions is a process in which colleges review applications as they're received and make decisions on an ongoing basis, instead of waiting to review all applications after a glutting deadline. This admission process is not offered by all schools, but rather primarily by less selective colleges and some state schools. Some private colleges also use it, though it is less common.

In terms of your chances of acceptance, applying early to a school with rolling admissions could potentially increase your chances of being accepted. Because colleges review and decide upon applications as they come in, earlier applicants might have an edge, as slots have not yet been filled.

It's also worth noting that with rolling admissions, you generally hear back relatively quickly on your admission decision, often within a few weeks of applying. This can be beneficial in allowing you more time to plan for things like housing and registration.

While deciding whether to consider such schools depends on your circumstances, there can be some benefits. Applying under rolling admissions allows you flexibility in application timing, and rapid feedback, and it can often be a less stress-inducing process compared to regular decision applications, where all decisions are made at once after a firm deadline.

However, like any other admission process, it's still important to consider the fit of the university itself outside of the admission process. Judge the school based on its programs, culture, location, and other factors that are important to you.