Question: The colleges that my daughter is applying to have different admission programs. While I think I understand what regular admission is, what is the difference between early, rolling and open admissions? -- Confused
Answer: High-school seniors applying to colleges definitely need to understand the differences between the many types of admissions, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of each one in order to choose the right one or ones for them. We have defined the admission plans. However, individual colleges may have different twists on each plan, so students must learn exactly what is involved for each college.
First of all, regular admission is the normal process. Students apply by a definite deadline and receive a decision no later than April 1 but could receive a decision much earlier.
There are many early admission options, so it is very important for students to know exactly what they are for each college. In general, there are two basic options. In one, students apply by Nov. 1 to only one college. Then they receive a binding decision in December or January and must go to that college. In others, they can apply to more than one college and may decide immediately to accept or have more time to make a decision.
Many colleges have rolling admission policies. Students can apply within a large decision window until all spots are filled. Applicants usually receive a decision a few weeks after submitting their applications. Finally, there is open admissions. It is a very unselective admission process. The only criterion for entrance is a high-school diploma or a GED certificate. A recent trend is for some colleges to offer deferred admissions. Instead of being admitted in the fall, students are admitted in the winter or spring, or even one year later.