I'm curious about universities with rolling admissions for fall 2025. Are there any advantages or things I should know about applying to these schools? Trying to plan ahead for my applications.
There are quite a few universities that offer rolling admissions where they review and make decisions on applications as they come in rather than after specific deadlines. This includes some large public schools, such as Penn State University and Michigan State University, as well as a number of smaller private schools and many online colleges.
Applying via rolling admissions can have certain advantages. For one, you often receive an admissions decision more quickly compared to the regular admissions cycle. This can allow you to plan ahead with more certainty, knowing whether to commit to a specific university or continue looking at other potential options. Another advantage is that some schools with rolling admissions can be more flexible when it comes to application dates. But remember, you should still submit your application earlier rather than later because once all spots in the incoming class are filled, admissions may close even if it's before the final deadline.
While rolling admissions can minimize some of the stress around some strict deadlines, it's important to be mindful that financial aid, housing, and scholarship decisions may be separate and still follow traditional deadlines. So, while you might get an early admission decision, it doesn't mean you will get an early financial aid package or housing assignment. Therefore, it's still crucial to submit any required applications and documents for these by their respective deadlines.
In terms of what you'll need for your applications, it's similar to what you'd prepare for regular or early action applications: your high school transcript, SAT/ACT scores (unless the school is test-optional), letters of recommendation, and your personal essay. Some schools may have additional requirements, so it's important to verify on the school's admissions webpage.
In summary, rolling admissions can give you additional flexibility and potentially an early admissions decision, but you should still plan to complete your application materials as early as possible and double-check for any separate financial aid, scholarship, or housing deadlines.
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