What's the rolling admission meaning for college applications?

I'm confused about what rolling admission actually means in the college application process. How does it work, and what are the advantages or disadvantages compared to regular deadlines?

Rolling admissions is a type of admission process that some colleges use. Unlike regular decision or early action/deadline, where applications are reviewed after a set deadline, colleges with rolling admissions evaluate applications as they come in. This admissions cycle usually opens in the early fall and might extend into the spring, or until all spots are filled.

Here's how it works: when you submit your application to a rolling admissions school, the admissions committee reviews it fairly soon after receiving it. They then make a decision, often within a few weeks. It's a little different from regular deadlines, where everyone submits by a certain date, and then the admissions committee starts to review the applications.

The major advantage of this system is there's often a quicker response time, allowing you to know your acceptance status sooner. It also provides more flexibility in when you can apply. But remember, it's typically best to apply early in these cases, as once the college fills all its slots, it might stop accepting applications, even if it's before the final deadline.

As for disadvantages, one potential downside is that some schools with rolling admissions also distribute financial aid on a first-come, first-serve basis. So, applying later in the process might result in less aid being available. Additionally, some students might feel rushed into making a decision if they receive an early acceptance from a rolling admissions school but are still waiting to hear back from other colleges.