Rolling Admission: Advantages, Drawbacks, Tips & List of Colleges
For many high school seniors, the college application process can be overwhelming. Looming deadlines, standardized tests, and the stress of crafting the perfect application can leave even the most organized student feeling frazzled. But what if there was a different approach? Here’s where rolling admissions comes in—a system designed to streamline the application process for students.
This blog will discuss everything you need to know about rolling admissions, from how it works to its pros and cons. We’ll explore how this flexible admissions process can benefit students and give you strategies to make the most of it.
What is Rolling Admission?
In the traditional process, you submit materials by a fixed deadline (usually December/January) for review. Rolling admission allows submissions within a wider window (often six months) with ongoing reviews. Decisions typically arrive within 4–6 weeks, with admissions continuing well into spring. Rolling admission offers a flexible window for submitting materials, with ongoing application review and admission notifications.
Rolling admission and regular admission look alike with one key difference: deadlines. Colleges with rolling admissions review applications as they are received throughout the admission window, rather than waiting for a single deadline like regular admission (typically in December or January). This process continues until their incoming class is full. Unlike early action and early decision, which are options for applicants, rolling admission is the college’s established admission process.
Note: While applications are reviewed as they arrive in rolling admissions, some schools might have a priority deadline for preferred submissions.
What are the Advantages of Rolling Admission?
If your dream school uses rolling admissions, here’s why it can be a major advantage!
Reduce college application stress
The rolling admissions process is quicker. The earlier you submit your application (think summer or early fall!), the sooner you hear back—often within 4-6 weeks. This means you could potentially start your senior year with an acceptance letter already in hand, easing a huge burden!
Potentially increase your chances of acceptance
Applying early in the rolling admissions window can give you an edge. Since colleges haven’t filled their entire class yet, your application will be evaluated on its own merit, not compared to a pool of already accepted students. (Remember, strong academics, test scores, and essays are still crucial!)
Enjoy application flexibility
Unlike binding early action decisions, rolling admissions allow you more freedom. You have until the deadline to decide if you’ll attend, even if you get accepted early. Additionally, these schools often have extended application windows, so you can apply even after regular deadlines for other schools have passed.
Here’s a smart strategy: prioritize early action applications for your top choices, then start with rolling admissions schools. Spreading out the college application process across months gives you more time in winter and spring to finalize applications without burning out.
Read Also: Class of 2027 College Acceptance Rates
What are the Drawbacks of Rolling Admission?
While rolling admissions offer flexibility, there are some key considerations for applicants:
1. Prompt action is required
Unlike traditional deadlines, rolling admissions require proactive planning. Applications are reviewed as they arrive, so spots can fill up quickly. A qualified student who waits may face stiffer competition or find their desired program at capacity. Be prepared to submit your application early for the best chance of acceptance.
2. Limited availability over time
Rolling admissions don’t guarantee a spot throughout the cycle. As applications are accepted, programs or college majors might reach their capacity. This creates uncertainty for later applicants, who may have fewer choices available. Submitting your application early helps secure your spot and avoid this limitation.
3. Priority deadlines might exist
While some colleges with rolling admissions review applications continuously, others, like Penn State, have priority deadlines. Applications submitted before this date receive greater consideration. These deadlines often fall close to traditional application periods, so the benefit of a rolling window might be minimal.
Read Also: When Do College Applications Open in 2024?
List of Popular Colleges with Rolling Admission
The following table lists some popular colleges with rolling admissions policies.
| College | Priority Deadline |
|---|---|
| Binghamton University-SUNY | January 15 |
| Duque University | January 15 |
| Indiana University Bloomington | February 1 |
| Iowa State University | — |
| Kansas State University | December 1 |
| Loyola University, Chicago | December 1 |
| Marquette University | December 1 |
| Michigan State University | February 1 |
| Pennsylvania State University | December 1 |
| Purdue University-West Lafayette | February 1 |
| Rochester Institute of Technology | January 15 |
| Rutgers University-Camden | December 1 |
| Rutgers University-Newark | December 1 |
| Rutgers University-New Brunswick | December 1 |
| Spelman College | February 1 |
| St. John’s University | February 1 |
| University of Alabama | January 15 |
| University at Buffalo-SUNY | November 15 |
| University of Cincinnati | — |
| University of Florida | November 1 |
| University of Maine | March 1 |
| University of Maryland | January 20 |
| University of Minnesota, Twin Cities | November 1 |
| University of Mississippi | April 1 |
| University of Oregon | January 15 |
| University of Pittsburgh | — |
| University of Tulsa | January 15 |
| Washington State University | January 31 |
Note: Application deadlines and the competitiveness of rolling admissions can vary by institution. Be sure to check each college’s website for specific details about their admissions process.
Read Also – College Planning: Step-by-Step Guide for US Students
5 Tips to Enjoy the Benefits of Rolling Admission
1. Apply strategically
Rolling admissions colleges typically begin accepting applications as early as July and continue as late as April. While applying early gives you an advantage, prioritize strong applications over rushing for deadlines. Submit your applications to your top choices before working on regular decision applications. Remember that rolling admissions results can influence your strategy for remaining schools.
2. Don’t miss out on financial aid
Just like with regular decision applications, it’s crucial to stay on top of your financial aid applications and scholarship searches. Aim to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon as possible after October 1st. Applying later in the rolling admission window increases the risk of missing out on financial aid and scholarships awarded to earlier applicants. Research each school’s specific procedures for applying for financial aid and have all necessary documents prepared in advance.
3. Maintain application quality
Don’t let the rolling format lead to a careless application. Give your rolling decision applications the same level of attention and detail as your regular decision applications. Proofread carefully, double-check deadlines, and ensure all required materials are submitted.
4. Plan your testing timeline
Many students take the SAT or ACT exam more than once to improve their scores. If you’re aiming for an early fall rolling admission application, take the test for the first time in October of your junior year. This allows you time for a retake in the spring if needed.
5. Research deadlines and requirements
Start by researching the colleges on your list. Pay close attention to their application deadlines and requirements. Some schools use rolling admissions, which means they accept applications throughout the year and make decisions on an ongoing basis. Others have a specific admission window with a set deadline. Understanding these deadlines is crucial for planning your application strategy.
Read Also: How to Get Scholarships for College in 2024
From the Desk of Yocket
On the positive side, rolling admissions offer flexibility. You can apply on your own schedule. It potentially reduces application stress by allowing you to submit a more polished application after waiting for test scores or refining your essays. This extended window can also be beneficial for students waiting on financial aid decisions before finalizing their college choices. For colleges, rolling admissions can spread out the workload for admissions officers, allowing for more focused reviews throughout the year.
However, rolling admissions also come with drawbacks. The concept of “the earlier the better” often applies, as strong applicants who apply early may fill up available spots before others have a chance. This can be especially concerning for students aiming for competitive schools. This can create anxiety for students who worry their application will be overshadowed by a wave of earlier submissions. Additionally, scholarship opportunities might be limited for those applying through rolling admissions, as some scholarships have deadlines that coincide with regular decision deadlines. With Yocket, students can navigate the nuances of rolling admission processes and optimize their application strategies effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is rolling admission?
Unlike traditional admissions with a single deadline, rolling admissions allow schools to review applications and make decisions on an ongoing basis. Applications are typically assessed as they are received, with admissions offers going out until all spots in the incoming class are filled.
Do all colleges have rolling admissions?
No, many colleges still have fixed application deadlines, with all applications reviewed together after that date.
Is there a deadline for rolling admissions?
Yes, even though applications are reviewed continuously, there is typically a final deadline by which applications are no longer accepted. This deadline ensures the school has enough time to fill the class and finalize enrollment.
Are decisions binding under rolling admissions?
No, decisions under rolling admissions are not binding. This means you can apply to multiple schools with rolling admissions and have the flexibility to choose where you want to attend after receiving your acceptance letters. The deadline to commit to a college typically falls on National Decision Day in May.
When is the best time to apply under rolling admissions?
The earlier you apply, the better. This increases your chances of getting accepted, especially for competitive programs, and allows you to explore scholarship opportunities that might have deadlines before the application window closes.