What Are The Best Colleges with Rolling Admissions in 2025?
Summary
Rolling admissions is a flexible college application process where schools accept and review applications continuously until all spots are filled. In this blog, we explain what rolling admissions means, highlight the best colleges offering rolling admissions in 2025 and explore the advantages like quicker decisions and flexible deadlines, as well as the challenges such as limited availability if you apply late. We also clarify common misconceptions and help you decide if rolling admissions is the right choice for your application journey.
What Is Rolling Admission?
Rolling admission is a policy in which colleges accept applications continuously, either year-round or within a flexible window, until all seats are filled.
An easy way to look at it is as a form of application process on a first-come, first-served basis.
While colleges review applications as they’re received, there may still be a priority deadline; a date by which a school prefers to have applications submitted. Some colleges might not even review applications submitted after the priority deadline if they don't have any spaces left.
Colleges may release their decisions on a rolling basis – this just means that they won’t send out their decision letters at the same time. It does not mean they have a rolling admissions policy!
Best Colleges With Rolling Admissions
If you’re aiming for a top university or the Ivy League, you'll notice that most of these high-ranking universities have strict deadlines.
In fact, most of them would have binding application processes like Early Action or Early Decision applications.
Instead, let’s take a look at colleges that combine the flexibility of rolling admissions with the academic excellence of top-ranking universities!
Best Colleges With Rolling Admissions in 2025
| Position | University | Ranking (US News) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Columbia University, School of General Studies | 13 |
| =2 | The Ohio State University | 41 |
| =2 | Rutgers University–New Brunswick | 41 |
| 4 | West Texas A&M University | 51 |
| =5 | Northeastern University | 54 |
| =5 | University of Minnesota Twin Cities | 54 |
| 7 | University of Pittsburgh | 70 |
| 8 | University of Illinois Chicago | 80 |
| 9 | University of South Florida | 91 |
| 10 | University of Arizona | 109 |
The absolute highest-ranking university with rolling admissions is Columbia University, followed by The Ohio State University and Rutgers University–New Brunswick.
Columbia University only accepts rolling admissions for its School of General Studies. With that said, it’s the only Ivy League that accepts rolling admissions!
Pros of Rolling Admissions
Flexibility in Application Deadlines
Rolling admission allows students to apply within a broader timeframe. This offers flexibility if you need more time to prepare — or if you want to apply earlier in the admissions cycle.
Quicker Decision Timelines
When you apply under rolling admission, you likely receive your decision earlier. This enables you to plan ahead and make informed choices about college options sooner than in traditional admission processes.
Higher Acceptance Rates
Due to the ongoing review of applications, rolling admission institutions often have higher acceptance rates compared to those with fixed deadlines. This gives you a better chance at securing a spot at one of these institutions.
Opportunity for Early Admission
Some rolling admission schools offer early admission to exceptional candidates. These students secure their spot well before the usual notification period and enjoy peace of mind for the rest of application season.
Cons of Rolling Admissions
Prompt Action Requirement
Rolling admission demands swift action from applicants. Since spots are filled progressively, those who submit later might face more competition or limited availability within their desired programs. It’s important to be proactive and prepared for the best chance of acceptance in rolling admission.
Uncertainty in Available Slots
Applicants applying later might find certain programs filled, which can limit their choices. This uncertainty underscores the importance of submitting your application early to secure your spot, as spaces become increasingly limited.
Final Thoughts
Rolling admissions affords you a lot of flexibility as a student, but it's not something many colleges offer. Keep in mind that regardless of the application process, what matters is finding the right college for you.
If you need expert guidance with finding the right college and submitting the perfect application, contact our strategists for a free consultation. Students working with Crimson are 7x more likely to gain admission to their dream school.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Northeastern rolling admissions?
Yes! Northeastern does offer rolling admissions, according to their official website.
Is the University of Arizona rolling admissions?
Yes! According to University of Arizona’s admissions FAQ, the university does indeed offer rolling admissions in 2025.
Is JMU rolling admissions?
No, JMU does not offer rolling admissions. The James Madison University’s website lists clear deadlines for all of its application streams.
Is there a limit to the number of schools I can apply to with rolling admissions?
There is no limit to the number of rolling admissions schools to which you can apply — even if you apply to Early Action, Early Decision, or Restrictive Early Action universities.
Are rolling admission decisions binding?
No, rolling admission decisions are not binding. So you can wait until your other Early Action, Early Decision, and Regular Decision letters come in before deciding where to attend.
Further Reading
- Regular Decision (RD) Explained
- Navigating College Applications: Early Action, Early Decision, and Regular Decision Explained
- What is Early Decision (ED) in College Admissions?
- Early Action (EA) Explained
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- Free eBooks and guides to help with the college application process