Have you ever wondered what a “rolling basis” means when it comes to college admissions? Many colleges have fixed deadlines and decision dates; however, some use a rolling admissions system. But what does that mean when you’re submitting your applications? Read on to learn how rolling admissions can impact your application strategy and timing.
What Does “Rolling Admissions” Mean?
Rolling admissions is a dynamic admissions process that doesn’t have set application or decision deadlines. Instead, schools review applications as they are received, and students can expect a decision within four to six weeks of applying.
Image Source: US News and World Report
According to US News and World Report, over 140 universities conduct admissions on a rolling basis, including Penn State University, the University of Missouri, Rutgers University, and the University of Maryland, so it’s likely that one of the schools on your list has a rolling admissions process.
How Does Rolling Admissions Work?
But how does rolling admissions actually work? Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
- Application Submission. You can submit your application anytime after applications open. Unlike traditional admissions, there is no deadline to meet, so whenever you’re ready, just send it in!
- Application Review. Once your application is submitted, it is reviewed by the admissions committee. They evaluate applications as they come in, so you can expect a relatively quick response (usually 4-6 weeks).
- Admission Decision. After reviewing your application, the admissions committee will make a decision and notify you about whether you have been accepted or not.
- Response. If you are accepted, you will receive an offer of admission and (if applicable) your financial aid package. While the rolling admissions process is more relaxed, you will have a firm deadline for accepting or declining your admissions offer.
Ongoing Review. The admissions team reviews applications until the class is full. So, the earlier you apply, the better your chances are of getting in!
The Pros and Cons of Rolling Admissions
Understanding the pros and cons of rolling admissions can help you build your school list and plan your application strategy.
Pros of Rolling Admissions
Flexible Deadlines:
Because a rolling admissions process doesn’t have a firm deadline, it offers unique flexibility. You can apply at any time, which reduces stress and gives you more control over the college application process. Without the constraint of a fixed deadline, you can prepare your application on your own timeline, working around your schedule to ensure all the components reflect your best work. This approach can result in a more thoughtful and polished submission, ultimately increasing your chances of acceptance.
Quicker Decisions:
Another significant advantage of rolling admissions is the possibility of receiving your admission decision sooner. As applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, you may hear back from the admissions office earlier than you would with a traditional deadline. This expedited process alleviates the prolonged uncertainty typically associated with college decisions and lets you plan ahead. A quicker response frees you up to focus on your current studies, applying for financial aid, and preparing for your freshman year.
More Time for Your College Search
With an extended rolling application window, you can take advantage of the additional time to research and select the colleges that best fit your goals and needs. You can also use this period to seek additional guidance from your mentors, refine your application materials, and improve any aspects of your profile that may be lacking. With rolling admissions, you can cast a wider net, exploring different programs and schools without the rush to meet a strict deadline. This strategy can improve your chances of finding the perfect match for both your career ambitions and your personal preferences.
Less Pressure:
Finally, rolling admissions means you don’t have a deadline looming over your head! If you are finding the college application process particularly nerve-wracking, rolling admissions can help alleviate that stress. This reduced-pressure environment lets you approach the admissions process with calm and clarity, leading to better-quality work. You can dedicate more attention to each application section, from writing compelling essays to gathering solid letters of recommendation. Not to mention, you will also be able to refocus your energies to the other things on your plate, like excelling in your high school classes, participating in extracurricular activities, and spending quality time with friends and family.
Cons of Rolling Admissions
Increased Competition
- While rolling admissions creates a more relaxed application submission process, it actually increases competition. Spots fill up quickly, and you have no way of knowing how many more places are available in the incoming class; like a game of musical chairs, you can find yourself left without a seat. Students who apply early have a better chance of acceptance to their desired programs. If you are looking into rolling admissions as a way to alleviate application stress, this heightened competition could actually increase the pressure, regardless of the flexible deadline.
Decision Delays:
- While some rolling admissions schools may review applications quickly, others might have a longer, less predictable decision making process. This uncertainty can be a significant drawback, as you may be waiting for an extended period without knowing when you will receive a response. The lack of a clear timeline can cause unnecessary anxiety and make it difficult to plan your next steps, especially if other schools are already asking you to make your final decision.
Committing Too Early
- While schools with a rolling admissions process don’t have a firm deadline for submissions, they often have one for acceptance. So, if you apply to a rolling admissions school early to beat the competition and you get accepted, you may have to make a choice before you hear back from other schools. That means that if you get a better offer from another school, you may not be able to take it because you’ve already committed yourself to a rolling admissions college. It’s not technically early decision, but if the rolling admissions process moves quickly, it can feel like it.
- Ultimately, however, you shouldn’t let rolling admissions be the only factor in deciding whether you should apply to a school. If a college is a good fit for your career goals, learning style, and student life preferences, you should still consider it! Just factor the rolling admissions process into your application strategy.
How to Maximize Your Chances with Rolling Admissions
Want to boost your chances of getting accepted in the rolling admissions process? Follow these tips:
Apply Early!
Applying early can significantly increase your chances of acceptance in the rolling admissions process. Schools typically review applications as they come in, meaning the earlier you apply, the more spots will be available. Early applications also demonstrate your enthusiasm and commitment to the institution, which can positively influence the admissions committee. If you apply early, you will maximize your chances of getting accepted, and you can focus on other essential aspects of your senior year, like academics, extracurricular activities, and preparing to transition to college life.
Stay Organized
Staying organized is crucial during the rolling application process. Even though you may not have a strict application deadline, you still need to fulfill all the school’s admission requirements, such as transcripts, recommendation letters, and standardized test scores. Missing any of these items can delay your acceptance or even lead to rejection, so make checklists, to-do lists, and planners your best friend! Regularly update your checklist and set personal deadlines to manage your time effectively.
Polish Your Application
Just like with regular admissions, polishing your application is essential to making a strong impression on the admissions committee. Ensure your application is complete and that it reflects your best work. Pay special attention to your essays and personal statements, ensuring they are polished and error-free, and build a strong extracurricular profile. A well-crafted application highlighting your strengths, experiences, and aspirations can set you apart from other applicants and increase your chances of acceptance.
Rolling Admissions FAQs
If you still have questions about rolling admissions, our expert staff has compiled answers to the most common things students ask us:
When Should I Apply for Rolling Admissions?
Apply as early as possible to increase your chances of acceptance. The earlier you submit your application, the better your chances are of securing a spot in the incoming class. Schools with rolling admissions review applications as they receive them, meaning available slots fill up over time. By applying early, you can take advantage of a larger pool of available spots and avoid the increasing competition as the application window progresses. Additionally, early applicants may receive admission decisions sooner, giving them more time to plan for their future.
Can I Apply to Multiple Schools with Rolling Admissions?
Yes, you can apply to multiple schools with rolling admissions. Applying to multiple schools increases your chances of acceptance and gives you more options before you make your final decision. However, make sure you manage your applications to ensure you meet all the requirements for every school you apply to. We recommend creating a plan that outlines all the components of each college’s application, as well as personal deadlines, so that you can effectively manage your time and put your best foot forward–with minimal stress.
What If I Missed the Rolling Admissions Deadline?
You didn’t read that question wrong; rolling admissions schools can still have deadlines! Colleges usually have a cutoff for students who want to start in the fall semester, so you can’t apply in July and hope to start in August. If you miss the final rolling admissions deadline, you can still apply; you may just have to start in the spring or take a gap year. So don’t worry, missing a deadline doesn’t mean the end of your college journey.
Improve Your Rolling Admissions Chances with Empowerly
At Empowerly, we understand that timing is everything. Our dedicated counselors can help you decide whether rolling admissions is right for you, and then, we’ll help you create a winning application strategy–from balanced school lists to stellar personal essays.
On average, Empowerly students receive 25x more personalized counseling time than the typical high schooler, and all that extra help really pays off! Our process has been proven to improve your chance of acceptance by 11x, whether you are applying to rolling admissions or regular decision schools. Schedule your free 30-minute consultation today to get into your dream school, sooner.
