<p>I just submitted my app to Harvard. It said that it wanted the Common App Supplement by December 1st, but all materials were due by January 1st. Can someone clear this up for me?</p>
<p>Thanks.</p>
<p>December 1st is a recommended deadline to get your stuff in. December 31st is the required deadline. By “recommended” Harvard means that it makes things easier for them. It doesn’t have any bearing on your application as far as anyone can tell.</p>
<p>They started encouraging the earlier apps a few years back when Harvard got rid of early decision. The common app and everything else has to be in by January 1, and any earlier submissions simply help the admissions staff avoid a tidal wave in January. In other words, submitting early does them a favor, but not a favor that will affect results.</p>