What Does Rd/Rolling Mean In Common App

What Does RD/Rolling Mean in Common App? (And Why It’s Like Trying to Get a Seat on a Crowded Rollercoaster)

So, you’re knee-deep in the college application process, right? You’ve probably stumbled upon a bunch of confusing acronyms like EA, ED, and RD. And then there’s “rolling admission,” which sounds like a college version of a “Wheel of Fortune” spin – but with higher stakes. Let’s break it down, shall we?

RD (Regular Decision) is like the “Regular Line” at the amusement park – Everyone applies by a specific deadline, and then the admissions committee gets together like a giant jury to decide who gets the coveted “admission ticket.” It’s a bit like a game of “wait and see,” where you’re not sure if you’ll be accepted, rejected, or stuck in “waitlist purgatory” until the magic “decision day” arrives.

Rolling Admission, on the other hand, is like the “Fast Pass” line. You apply whenever you want within a given timeframe, and the admissions committee reviews applications as they come in – first come, first served, basically. It’s like a race against the clock, where the earlier you apply, the better your chances of acceptance. Think of it like grabbing a seat on a crowded rollercoaster – the earlier you get in line, the more likely you are to secure a spot.

Here’s the difference in a nutshell:

• RD (Regular Decision): Apply by a set deadline, wait for a decision at a specific time.
• Rolling Admission: Apply anytime within a designated period, get a decision within a few weeks.

But wait, there’s more! It’s not as simple as “early bird gets the worm.” While it’s true that applying early under rolling admission can improve your chances, it doesn’t guarantee acceptance. Just like a rollercoaster, even if you’re first in line, there’s a chance you might still get bumped.

Here are some key things to remember about rolling admissions:

• The “first come, first served” principle applies: This means that the earlier you apply, the better your chances. But it doesn’t mean you’re automatically in!
• Spots fill up quickly: Schools with rolling admission might stop accepting applications once all their spots are filled. So, don’t wait until the last minute!
• Decisions can be faster, but they’re not always instant: You might get a decision within a few weeks, but it can take longer depending on the school’s workload.

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room – the dreaded “waitlist.” Even with rolling admission, colleges can still waitlist applicants. It’s like being in a waiting room for a rollercoaster that’s already full. You’re not out of the game entirely, but you’ll need to wait and see if a spot opens up.

Here’s the thing: Rolling admission can be a great option for motivated students who want to get the application process out of the way. But it’s also important to remember that it’s not a guaranteed acceptance ticket.

Here are some tips for navigating the rolling admission process:

1. Do your research: Not all colleges offer rolling admission, and those that do have different deadlines and application procedures. Make sure you understand the school’s specific guidelines before you apply.
2. Apply early: This is a no-brainer – the earlier you apply, the better your chances of securing a spot.
3. Don’t wait for the “perfect” application: It’s better to submit a solid application early than to keep polishing it for weeks or months. Remember, the college is looking for a well-rounded student, not a perfect one.
4. Be prepared for a bit of a wait: Even with rolling admission, you might have to wait a few weeks to hear back. Don’t freak out if you don’t get an immediate response.
5. Keep your grades up: Your academic performance will be a major factor in the admissions decision, even with rolling admission. So, keep studying and make sure you’re getting good grades.
6. Don’t apply to just one school: With rolling admission, there’s a chance that your dream school might fill up before you apply. So, apply to a few schools as a backup plan.

So, there you have it – the lowdown on RD and rolling admission. It’s not rocket science, but it can be confusing if you’re not familiar with the terminology. Just remember, the key to success is researching your options, applying early, and keeping your fingers crossed!

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