What Is Rolling Admission?
Most colleges’ admissions programs set a deadline for applying, collect all the applications, and then review them to determine acceptance. A rolling admissions program instead reviews submissions as they are received.
What Is the Benefit to Students of a Rolling Application?
The primary benefit for students is that they can receive an answer on their admissions application much sooner than with traditional methods. This may allow students greater flexibility in making their decisions.
Are There Any Drawbacks for Students?
Students who do not apply early may find fewer openings available for admission. Quality applications may be rejected based on when they were received rather than merit.
Is Rolling Admissions the Same as Early Admission?
No. Early admission programs are a separate admission process. One key difference is that applying in an early admission program commits the student to an enrollment decision if accepted.
When Should I Submit My Application?
Check the website for the college you are applying for. If the information isn’t listed, contact the admissions department directly for an answer. A good rule of thumb is to apply in the fall as early as you can submit a complete application.
What Is a Priority Deadline?
Some schools set a priority deadline that guarantees an answer by a certain date if your application is submitted prior to the deadline. Beating the priority deadline is a good way to ensure your application has the best opportunity of being accepted, all other things being equal.
When Is the Latest I Can Submit a Rolling Admission Application?
Rolling admissions typically have a large window for application, often as long as six months. Many programs do not have an admission deadline, but once the available slots are filled, no more applications are accepted. Check the school’s website or contact the admission’s department to find out if the school is still accepting applications.
How Soon Can I Expect a Decision?
In a rolling admissions program, applicants may expect a decision much sooner than regular admissions programs. How soon you may get a decision depends on several factors, including the number of applications the school has under consideration at the moment and the program the student is applying for. In the best-case scenario, you may have a decision in as little as two days. On average, you may expect to wait four to six weeks.
When Do I Have to Make a Decision Regarding Enrollment?
Typically, schools with rolling admissions do not require a decision earlier than other schools. May 1st is typically referred to as National College Decision Day, and you will not be required to make a firm decision prior to that date.
What New Jersey Schools Use the Rolling Admission Process?
There are several New Jersey schools that review applications as they are submitted, including:
- Bloomfield College
- Caldwell University
- Centenary College
- College of St. Elizabeth
- Felician College
- Georgian Court University
- Kean University
- Rabbinical College of America
- Rider University
- Rutgers
- Saint Peter’s University
- Thomas Edison State College
- William Paterson University
How Can I Know if a School Uses Rolling Admissions?
The best way is to check the school’s website for application information. You can always contact the school’s admissions department for clarification and more information on the admissions and application process.
Additional Resources:
https://www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/articles/2018-01-11/rolling-admissions-10-frequently-asked-questions
https://www.testive.com/rolling-admission/
https://blog.prepscholar.com/what-is-rolling-admission-when-do-you-apply
