I recently received an email from Yale saying that since I started my application before the deadline but did not submit on time, they are granting a deadline extension. I know the email is a mass email.
I am thinking whether the email is just to increase their number of applicants and Yale probably won’t take the applications seriously because the applicants did not show initial interest in Yale/ self initiative and only applied because of " I have time and there is a deadline extension" mentality. Since Yale definitely doe not lack 2400s who submitted their applications 2 weeks ahead. Or is the admission office actually being nice and know that some students might need some extra time and if they had extra time they would apply to Yale. Will Yale will actually consider these late applications on equal ground despite these students did not show interest in Yale, might not attend if accepted, and only submitted their application due to a deadline extension?
You’re correct – the message is an automated mass email, however Yale doesn’t know why you (and other students) didn’t complete your application. Was it because you needed more time, thought your stats were not good enough, failed to sign the signature page, or were you accepted in the early round to another college and Yale is no longer high on your list. Given all the unknowns, I think Yale doesn’t want to leave any stone unturned as they search for strong candidates for the class of 2021, so they would definitely read and consider your application without prejudice.
I agree with @gibby and will add that I seriously doubt that Yale is extending the deadline “just to increase their number of applicants” or that they “probably won’t take the applications seriously.”
I believe that Yale, as an institution, sees no need to play this sort of game, and I also believe that applications received in the extension period will be treated as if they were timely.
FYI… Duke did the same thing. They sent out emails to those who showed interest in some way but did not apply. They sent multiple emails and the deadline is midnight tonight. My D took advantage of both the Duke and Yale extensions, though she seems more interested in Yale. Being away on vacation over the holidays made getting to all her apps difficult and the extensions were appreciated.