I'm trying to understand the benefits and challenges of applying to a college with rolling admission, like the University of Hartford. Does applying early improve my chances, or should I wait to strengthen my application?
Rolling admissions is essentially an application process in which a college reviews applications, makes decisions, and sends out notifications on a continuous basis until their incoming class is full. The University of Hartford, as you noted, follows this approach.
Unlike the regular decision process where you have a specific date to submit and an accepted student notification day for everyone, the rolling admission process allows you to submit the application anytime. The decision window can be quite broad, often starting in the early fall and extending into the summer.
This process can have significant benefits. Firstly, applying early in a rolling admission process can be advantageous as spots in the incoming class could be filled as applications are reviewed. The sooner you apply, the more seats are available, and consequently, there may be less competition.
However, even if you apply early in the rolling admission cycle, it's crucial to ensure your application is as strong as possible. This may mean waiting a bit longer if you're working on improving your grades, honing your essay, or waiting on impressive extracurricular and service experiences that could enhance your application.
Also, make sure to check on financial aid and scholarship availability. Some institutions award financial aid and scholarships on a first-come, first-served basis, so it may be beneficial to apply earlier.
But remember that each school's process can differ somewhat, so you might want to get specific information from the University of Hartford's admissions office. They can provide the most accurate and up-to-date information about their rolling admissions process.
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.