Shot of a diverse group of students on graduation day

It’s that heady time of year again. Graduation season. Time for caps, gowns and a whole lot of excitement.

And maybe just a smidgen of anxiety too — especially for those receiving diplomas who still aren’t sure what comes next.

First, take a deep breath. Then realize: It’s still not too late to attend college in the fall, especially since many of Michigan’s 15 top independent colleges and universities offer rolling or late admissions.

Rules vary by college. But typically, rolling admissions discard traditional application deadlines. Instead, students are accepted until class sizes are met for the following term. That often means that it’s not too late, even in June, to attend one of the finest colleges in the Midwest.

Aquinas College, Albion College, Alma College, Calvin College and Hope College all officially offer rolling admissions, while most other colleges accept late applications. And with firmer deadlines — such as Hillsdale College — still take applications for future semesters, giving students breathing room to chart their next chapter.

Best of all, applying online is free.

Get started by following the links above for those colleges, as well as Marygrove College, Madonna University, Adrian College, Olivet College, Andrews University, Kalamazoo College, Siena Heights University, Spring Arbor University and University of Detroit Mercy.

Like all admissions, there’s no guarantees. But the truth is it’s almost never too late to attend the college of your dreams. Worst case, it may take a little longer. Best case, the world is your oyster.

That’s because Michigan’s 14 independent colleges and universities pride themselves on accepting students who purposefully chart their own path.

National leaders in education, the independents boast graduation and employment rates that often exceed big public schools. Classes are taught by award-winning faculty who are experts in their field. Because class sizes are so low, professors form tight bonds with students and help chart their paths.

Committed to community, the colleges have deep networks of business executives and alumni who mentor students.

Often less expensive than public schools, the independents offer a truly unique and affordable experience that simply doesn’t exist at big state schools.

Be bold. Be different. Go independent.