Top 9 Grad Schools with Rolling Admissions in 2022

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Grad schools with rolling admissions is something you may hear about in high school. You may be filling out a college application. Perhaps a counselor told you to take early action. Get your application in. Schools with rolling admissions review those applications when they come in. They don’t want until a specific deadline to get started. Senior year, you may have done just that. Now, it’s time to think about grade school. The same applies to graduate school. Some schools start reviewing and deciding on applications right away. College admissions like this may encourage you to apply sooner. There’s much to know.

What is Grad Schools with Rolling Admissions?

Grad schools still accepting applications early on. They continue to accept them until their program is full. That’s why acting fast matters.

Compare this to other grad schools. They set an application date. They collect applications until that date. Then, they evaluate all applications. They make decisions and accept students at one time. This is called regular decision making. Colleges with rolling admissions is more of a first come, first serve basis.

That also means these schools sent acceptance letters throughout the application period. If you apply, you may receive a decision sooner. Prospective students may want to apply quickly to get into the program they desire.

Remember, unlike early decision programs, rolling admission decisions aren’t binding, which means you may still apply and consider other schools. Keep in mind that the school’s acceptance rate may differ. That is, some schools have a limited number of students they accept. They have many applications, though. This may make it harder to get into the school. That is often the case with Ivy league schools.

Do Graduate Programs with Rolling Admissions Have Deadlines?

Some graduate programs with rolling admissions have priority deadlines. That means applicants who submit their application before a certain date are likely to receive an admissions decision by a specific date. Other aspects of the program may have other deadlines. This includes a FAFSA deadline, scholarships, and other financial aid. Financial aid may be available to those who qualify. However, every school is different. Be sure to check with each one that you’re considering.

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  • Qualified students with 2.5 GPA and up may receive up to $20K in grants & scholarships
  • Multiple term start dates throughout the year. 24/7 online classroom access

Lists of 9 Universities with Rolling Admissions for Fall 2022

Check out the nine graduate schools with rolling admissions below. Consider the admissions requirements and some of the popular programs at each.

Keep in mind that at many graduate schools, each program or department has different admissions guidelines. Schools may change their admissions requirements at any time. Click on any of the sponsored listings below or the specific programs to contact the school directly.

Founded in 1787, the University of Pittsburgh is a state-related research university with more than 320,000 living alumni and more than 7,000 graduate and doctoral students.

Admissions Requirements at the University of Pittsburgh

While the admissions requirements to the different graduate schools at Pitt vary from program to program, some of the most common include:

  • Completed application
  • Official transcripts
  • Statement of career goals and degree objectives
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Resume or curriculum vitae (CV)

With more than 16,033 graduate and professional students, the University of Minnesota boasts an award-winning faculty that includes current and former members who have won Guggenheim Fellowships, MacArthur Fellowships, Nobel Prizes, and other significant honors.

Admissions Requirements at the University of Minnesota

The specific admissions requirements vary depending on the program you’re interested in. However, some of the most common requirements include:

  • Resume
  • Personal Statement
  • Letters of recommendation

Some programs, such as the MSW, look for applicants with at least one year of professional experience. However, not all programs have that same requirement.

Fairfield University has been graduating adept, accomplished students since its founding over 75 years ago by the Society of Jesus (the Jesuits). The school’s objective is to promote a sense of social responsibility while making sure all students embrace and develop their full creative and intellectual potential.

Admissions Requirements at Fairfield

Many of the graduate programs at Fairfield have rolling admissions until a specific date. For instance, the MSN with a concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner has a rolling admissions process until April 1st.

Other admissions requirements commonly include:

  • Resume
  • Admission Essay
  • Official transcripts
  • Letters of recommendation

Some of the 41 graduate programs available at Fairfield include::

With more than 57,000 students from 150 countries, Walden University has been serving the higher education needs of adult learners for 45 years. Part of that responsibility includes creating programs that reflect current market trends and promote positive social change.

Applying to Graduate Programs at Walden

Unlike many other schools, when applying to Walden you’ll work with an enrollment advisor who guides you through each step. Some of the steps and admissions requirements include:
  • Complete online profile
  • Complete online application
  • Resume
  • Goal statement
  • Official transcripts
Lasell College has designed their graduate and professional studies programs to meet the needs and challenges of working professionals, which is why they offer a rolling admission process and six start terms per year.

Admissions Requirements at Lasell

The admission requirements for graduate programs at Lasell include:
  • Two professional letters of recommendation from either faculty or employers
  • Resume
  • Official transcripts
  • Personal statement
Some programs, such as the MBA, require that you have at least two years of professional work experience.
  • Some of the nation’s most affordable tuition rates, from a private, nonprofit, NEASC accredited university
  • Qualified students with 2.5 GPA and up may receive up to $20K in grants & scholarships
  • Multiple term start dates throughout the year. 24/7 online classroom access
The rigorous, collaborative, and boldly innovative academic culture at Binghamton University offers students a broad, interdisciplinary education with an international perspective and one of the most vibrant research programs in the nation.

Admissions Requirements at Binghamton

Every graduate school applicant to Binghamton must submit:
  • Online application
  • Transcripts
  • Personal statement
  • Resume or CV
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Official GRE or GMAT scores (unless otherwise specified by program)
In addition, some programs require additional materials, such as writing or work samples, licenses or certifications, and test scores.
Adelphi University is dedicated to transforming the lives of its students through small classes, hands-on learning, and innovative ways to support student success. Founded in 1896 in Brooklyn, Adelphi is now Long Island’s oldest private coeducational university.

Admissions Requirements at Adelphi

Some of the admissions requirements include:
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Personal essay
  • Transcripts
  • Resume
Some programs may have additional requirements, such as a 3.0 GPA while earning your bachelor’s degree or GMAT scores for an MBA.

Popular Programs with Rolling Admissions

  • Master in:
    • Public Health (MPH)
    • Social Work (MSW)
  • (MBA) Master of Business Administration in Management
  • Master of Arts in General Psychology
  • Master of Science in Nursing Administration
As a private, nonprofit, accredited institution with more than 90,000 online students and an alumni network of over 84,000, Southern New Hampshire University is proud to offer an exceptional student experience with nationally recognized academic programs.

Admissions Requirements at SNHU

Applying to SNHU consists of sending a completed application and an admissions representative will contact you to guide you through the process and help you collect all required materials. None of the graduate programs at SNHU require the GMAT or GRE and some can be completed in as little as 15 months.
Purdue University Global Campus is the online arm of Purdue University that is designed to build on the school’s mission to provide access to affordable, high-quality education. The school is dedicated to adult learners who need flexibility to fit the pursuit of a degree into their busy lives.

Admissions Requirements at Purdue Global

The application process at Purdue Global includes:
  • Speaking with an advisor
  • Interview with your Admissions Advisor
  • Review and sign Enrollment Agreement
  • Get started
Keep in mind that some programs have additional admissions requirements.
Indiana University offers a rolling admission process. They are a state school that offers a number of programs both online and in person. These are for their graduate programs.

Admission Requirements:

  • Application
  • Application fee
  • Test Scores
  • Personal statement
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Individual programs may have additional requirements such as interviews or essays

Popular Programs with Rolling Admissions:

  • Business Analytics
  • Cybersecurity Risk Management
  • Data Science
  • Educational Leadership
  • Finance
  • Healthcare Management
Michigan State offers a number of graduate programs that take rolling admissions. Make sure to check out and see all that they have to offer. These programs may be online or in person.

Admission Requirements:

  • Application
  • Application fee
  • Transcripts
  • Each major program has individualized requirements

Popular Programs with Rolling Admissions:

  • Accounting and Information Systems
  • Anthropology
  • Communication
  • Economics
  • Finance
Arizona State offers a number of graduate programs that accept rolling admissions. They have options in a number of fields. The programs are all accredited. Some programs are available online.

Admission Requirements:

  • Bachelors degree
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA
  • Test scores
  • Transcripts
  • Application
  • Application fee
  • Individual programs may have other requirements such as letters of recommendation and essays

Popular Programs with Rolling Admissions:

  • Business
  • Accounting
  • Art
  • Business Analytics
  • Communication
  • Computer Engineering
  • Computer Science
Loyola University is a fully accredited school that offers rolling admissions. The school has a number of graduate programs. Some of these programs offer the ability to be done online or in person.

Admission Requirements:

  • Bachelors degree
  • Application
  • Application fee
  • Transcripts
  • 0 minimum GPA
  • Programs applied to may require additional items such as test scores, essays and letters of recommendation

Popular Programs with Rolling Admissions:

  • Statistics
  • History
  • Mathematics
  • Psychology
  • Sociology
  • Computer Science
The University at Buffalo offers a number of graduate programs. These programs are all accredited and some have rolling admissions. Some programs may offer online options as well as hybrid.

Admission Requirements:

  • Application
  • Application fee
  • Official transcripts
  • Test scores
  • Additional items may be required based upon the program being applied to

Popular Programs with Rolling Admissions:

  • Accounting
  • Architecture
  • Criminology
  • Computer Science
  • Education
  • History
  • Engineering
Tennessee offers rolling admissions for a number of programs. The school is fully accredited and offers both online and in person programs in many programs.

Admission Requirements:

  • Bachelors degree
  • 7 minimum GPA
  • Application
  • Application fee
  • Transcripts
  • Some programs may require other items, including test scores, essays, and interviews

Popular Programs with Rolling Admissions:

  • Accounting
  • Engineering
  • Business
  • Economics
  • Communications
  • Computer Science
Arkansas State is a fully accredited school that  offers a number of graduate programs. These programs are all fully accredited. They do offer programs that are available online.

Admission Requirements:

  • 75 minimum GPA
  • Application
  • Application fee
  • Transcripts
  • Bachelors degree
  • Individual programs may require additional items including test scores, essays, and letters of recommendation

Popular Programs with Rolling Admissions:

  • Business
  • Education
  • Nursing
  • Criminology
  • Communications
California State offers a number of graduate programs that have rolling admissions. The school is fully accredited and offers online programs as well as in person options.

Admission Requirements:

  • Bachelors degree
  • 2.5 GPA in last 60 credit hours attempted
  • Test scores
  • Application
  • Application fee
  • Transcripts
  • Each program may have additional requirements including essays, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement

Popular Programs with Rolling Admissions:

  • Education
  • Business
  • Public Administration
  • Psychology
  • Sociology
Creighton University offers a rolling admissions process. The school offers a number of graduate programs all fully accredited. Some programs may be available for online study.

Admission Requirements:

  • Minimum GPA
  • Official transcripts
  • Resume
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Application
  • Application fee
  • Bachelors degree
  • Programs may have additional requirements such as test scores and essays

Popular Programs with Rolling Admissions:

  • Accounting
  • Analytics
  • Business
  • Education
  • Leadership
Iowa State is a fully accredited school with rolling admissions. They offer a number of graduate programs. Some programs are offered as an online option.

Admission Requirements:

  • Application
  • Application fee
  • Bachelors degree
  • Transcripts
  • Some programs may require test scores, essays , or other additional items

Popular Programs with Rolling Admissions:

  • Accounting
  • Architecture
  • Business
  • Computer Science
  • Economics
  • Engineering
New Hampshire offers a number of graduate programs. These programs are all accredited and may have rolling admissions. The programs may be available in an online format.

Admission Requirements:

  • Application
  • Application fee
  • Transcripts
  • Bachelors degree
  • Some programs may request test scores, essays, or letters of recommendation among other items

Popular Programs with Rolling Admissions:

  • Accounting
  • Economics
  • Business
  • Analytics
  • Chemistry
  • Computer Science

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What Schools Have Rolling Admissions?

Our list of schools that review applications right away above is thorough. Yet, there are many more that offer these types of programs. Consider a few more to look into for your needs. These review applications as they come in:

Growth in Conferred Masters Programs with Rolling Admissions

According to the NCES, from 2009–10 and 2019–20, the number of rolling admissions masters programs degrees conferred increased 22%, from 693,300 to 843,400. (Source: NCES.ed.gov)

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What are the Benefits of Colleges with Rolling Admissions 2022?

Universities with rolling admissions provides applicants with more options. This may mean applying early in the process to reduce the competition. Consider applying later in the process to meet a certain start date.

Either way, you have more power in the application process with schools with rolling admission. Check out some of the other benefits listed below.

#1: Apply When You’re Ready

Graduate schools with rolling admissions allow you to apply when you’re ready. However, many of these schools and programs do have application deadlines for specific start dates. You may be able to wait until the next one.

When planning on applying to grad school, make sure to research the admissions requirements for each school carefully. Gather all the needed materials. Then, research enough schools and programs to figure out how many graduate schools you should apply to.

#2: Hear Back Sooner

Many schools that have a specific application deadline don’t judge applications until the deadline has passed. Only then do they review all of the applications at the same time.

Graduate schools with rolling admissions examine applications as soon as they come in. That means in many cases that you may hear back as soon as four to eight weeks. You typically hear back sooner than if there were a deadline.

#3: Less Competition

Graduate schools with strict application deadlines usually judge every application at the same time. That may mean you are in direct competition with all other applicants.

However, graduate schools with rolling admissions judge applications as they come in. If you apply earlier in the admissions process, you’re likely to face less competition. Though this doesn’t necessarily mean acceptance, this may help you.

Are There Disadvantages of Rolling Admission Graduate Schools?

Many experts agree that the main disadvantage to rolling admissions is that qualified students who wait to apply may not be accepted. That may be because a program may fill up for a specific start date. However, many graduate schools now offer multiple start dates throughout the year. If you aren’t accepted to one, you may be accepted to a later start date.

Another disadvantage is that though you may hear back sooner, this may force you into making a decision earlier than you would have otherwise. This is another reason that you should apply to graduate school only when you’re ready and consider a variety of schools before enrolling.

When Do You Apply for Grad School?

You are in your senior year of your bachelor’s degree. Time is of the essence. You are battling coursework and finals. Should you be thinking about grad school now?

It is often best to apply to grad school when you are ready. Be sure you have time to dedicate to the process. Are you planning to attend a school with rolling admissions? If so, apply as soon as possible.

This early action is vital. It may help you get into the program you desire simply because of availability. Aim to send in your application as soon as they open the process. Each school sets its own timelines. Most state a specific date when they start to accept applications. Be ready to send yours in at that time.

Some graduate schools still accepting applications in mid-summer. Others wait until the fall semester gets started. It is also worth checking acceptance rates. This lets you know how likely your application is to be accepted. It may help you make a decision on which school to choose.

If you really want into a liberal arts program at the school of your choice, apply early.

Is Early Access the Same as Rolling Admission Graduate School?

Some schools offer early access. This is different than rolling admission. Early access typically is a type of commitment a student makes to the school. Schools may offer this to encourage students to respond faster to offers.

Here is how it may work. You apply to a school through early access. They accept you. That means you are going to be there in the fall. Though there are some ways out, that’s not typical. With rolling admission, there is no promise. You just apply early. They accept you. You may still wish to wait until other schools accept you. Then, you make your decision. With rolling admission, you are not promising to attend.

What Is a Rolling Deadline? What Is Rolling Motivation?

Another few terms you may see are these. Rolling deadlines do not have a hard cutoff date. That means they continue to accept applications for a while. They may do so until their program fills up.

Rolling notification is a bit different. It refers to how the school lets their prospective students know about their acceptance. Some schools do this all at one time. They send out all acceptance letters at once. Those with rolling notifications do not. That means they send out application acceptance as they make decisions. This is common with rolling admissions programs. Remember that schools may change their processes often. Some schools set new dates and methods each year. Be sure to check out the details when applying. Be sure you know when the deadlines to apply are. That may help ensure you do not fail to get in just because you missed the deadline.

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