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Unweighted GPA: 3.7
1.0
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Difference between Early Action and Rolling Admissions

Hey guys, I'm a bit confused about the different types of college applications. Can someone explain the difference between Early Action and Rolling Admissions? Is there an advantage to applying one way or the other?

11 months ago

Sure, I'd be happy to explain the difference between Early Action (EA) and Rolling Admissions!

Early Action is a type of application deadline where you submit your application earlier than the Regular Decision (RD) deadline, usually around November. EA is non-binding, which means that if you're accepted, there's no obligation to attend the college. This early submission allows you to receive an admissions decision sooner than RD applicants, typically in December or January. Note that some colleges offer a variation called Restricted Early Action (REA), where applying early to that specific college means you cannot apply early to any other private colleges.

Rolling Admissions, on the other hand, is an application process in which a college reviews applications as they are received instead of waiting for a specific deadline. Schools with rolling admissions may start accepting applications as early as the summer before senior year and will continue accepting applications until their class is full. This process typically results in quicker turnaround times for admissions decisions, sometimes within a few weeks of submission.

As for advantages, applying Early Action can demonstrate your interest in a college, which can have a somewhat positive effect on your application. It also allows you to receive decisions earlier, giving you more time to plan financially and logistically, if accepted. Statistically, acceptance rates for EA can be higher than RD, but it varies by college.

With Rolling Admissions, submitting your application earlier in the cycle can improve your chances, since colleges accept students on a first-come, first-served basis until the class is full. Applying early ensures that you're considered before spots fill up and resources, such as scholarships, are still available. Additionally, if a college offers both EA and rolling admissions, you can still apply EA and then apply to some rolling admissions schools as well.

Ultimately, the choice of which application type to pursue depends on your preferences and the schools you're considering. If a school you're interested in offers EA, it can be advantageous to apply early to show your enthusiasm and potentially receive a decision earlier. On the other hand, if a school operates on rolling admissions, you may want to apply as early as possible to be in a stronger position, especially regarding financial aid and spots in the class. Good luck with your applications!

11 months ago

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