Since all appointments are coming out later than usual, is rolling admissions still a factor (in other words, does submitting you application earlier make as much of a difference?)
Well, in my opinion, we are PAST the point where "early admissions" becomes significant. I.e. If you're not finished today, then there's not that big of an advantage to completing it in January or February.
Having said that; and for the individuals applying next summer; in my opinion, the answer is YES. YES, finishing your application early DOES have some benefits. Even in a selection year where selections aren't done until April-May.
WHY? Simple.... PERCEPTION!!! The "Human Factor".
1. MOC nomination: I've got "X" amount of applicants. Do I PERCEIVE the individual(s) who show that their Academy application is 100% complete to be more DETERMINED, DEDICATED, BETTER TIME MANAGER, COMMITTED, etc....? YUP!!! This could easily be the factor that gets you the nomination, and the other person not to get the nomination. CAVEAT: Is this going to help the 3.2gpa/25act/1700sat applicant??? Nope. But then again, most of the low end will have a difficult time getting a nomination or appointment no matter when they finish the application.
2. Admissions: Your application is weighted and scored. Many of your scores are subjective. While the academy isn't offering most appointments until the spring, that doesn't mean they haven't already started scoring your package. They have. They still know, based on past stats, what the "NO BRAINER CLUB" is. If you are in the "No Brainer Club", there are some early appointments going out. If your application is done early, you can receive an early appointment. The academy loves locking you in and stopping you from applying to other schools or academies. But we're talking the 34-36ACT/4.0 unweighted GPA/#1 class rank/Class officer/3 Varsity sports/CAPTAIN of the varsity sports/All State - All Conference/200+ Volunteer hours/IB Program or an entire course load of AP classes (To go along with the 4.0gpa)/Involved in a number of clubs, etc..... I think you get the idea of the "No Brainer Club". This applicant under ANY scenario, WILL RECEIVE an appointment. They aren't the Top-10%. They are BETTER than the Top-1% of all applicants.
Also; for those who aren't in the "No Brainer Club" but finish their application early, the board will use the "Human Factor" in scoring your package. Just like the MOC, they will see that you are dedicated, determined, confident, committed, etc.... They will see that the academy isn't simply "Another College Application". USC, Harvard, Yale, Stanford, and most other universities have an "Early enrollment" or "Early Admissions" section. They view these applicants who truly choose their school as their #1 choice. The military is no different. If you have your application completed in August-September and it's available during the first board review, they will see the stated qualities in you and they will tend to give you a more favorable assessment of your package.
Hope this helps. Doesn't do anything for this year's applicants. We're way past what is considered "Early". Early is for those next year who can have their application 100% completed; ready for board review; in 45 days or less. Basically, completed prior to the 1st board review. Best of luck.... mike.....