How common are colleges with rolling admissions?

I'm thinking about applying to colleges with rolling admissions but not sure how widespread this option is. How common is it for colleges to do rolling admissions, and could it impact my decision-making process?

Colleges with rolling admissions are fairly common, though they tend to be less prevalent among highly selective institutions. Many public universities and some private colleges utilize this admissions policy. Generally, schools with rolling admissions begin to review applications as they are submitted and continue to accept applications until all spots are filled.

This admission method could indeed impact your decision-making process. For one, these schools often have larger application windows, giving you a bit more flexibility with submitting your applications. They also typically provide admission decisions on a more regular basis, so you may hear back sooner than you would from schools with standard admissions timelines.

However, just because a school uses rolling admissions doesn't mean you can wait until the last minute to apply. Applicants are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, so spots can fill up. If you have a school that uses rolling admissions as one of your top choices, it's wise to submit your application sooner rather than later to increase your chances of getting a spot. Additionally, some schools may have preferred deadlines for merit-based scholarships, even if they do use rolling admissions, meaning that applicants who apply after these deadlines may be less likely to receive merit aid.

One more point to consider: While the flexibility of rolling admissions can be a compelling feature, it's also important to take into account other factors such as academic rigor, availability of your desired major, campus culture, financial aid, and so on. It's a point to note, but just one among many that you should be considering while making your college decisions.