For rolling submission, does the LOR have to get in early too?

[balloons]

Hi! I am applying for 2017 PhD program (possibly neuroscience or stem cell biology). I just found out that some schools are accepting in a rolling base, and I am wondering if rec letters have to be in early as well. Or would it be okay if I submit all my essays/CV/transcript etc early but LOR by Dec 1? Would it still be counted as rolling? I guess not?! 

 

[Warelin]

As a general rule, Admission committees don't review an application until all components are submitted including letters of recommendations. (If you need to apply by a certain date to get a fee waiver, programs will generally allow recommendation letters to be submitted later and still waive your fee).

[TakeruK]

Yes, generally, the application will only be reviewed once all the components are submitted so if you want your application considered early, your LORs should be in early too. Although it's Nov 2 today, so the difference between Nov 2 and Dec 1 isn't that much!