Guide: 4 Types of College Admissions!
ROLLING ADMISSIONS
Used by a lot of private universities in the West. When you get your admissions notice in 2-4 weeks from application submission.
EARLY ACTION
Apply by a certain date (typically Nov. 1st). Then they have a regular date later. Can be accepted early, deferred, or rejected. This is not binding.
EARLY DECISION
Early deadline and must attend that school with the money they offer.
RESTRICTIVE EARLY ACTION
A lot like early decision BUT if you get in cannot attend another private school but can attend a public university.