<p>It says on their website that ed applications need to be in by October 19th in order to get first priority for interviews, does this mean the essay needs to be turned in before the 19th (tonight), or can it be turned in up until 11:59 PM tomorrow? </p>
<p>Also, how much would you say the Duke essay matters? Right now my essays are in very good shape, do you think they will have a substantial impact on my admissions decision?</p>
<p>The essay matters a lot. It has a big impact. I can’t say for certain about the deadline, but it sounds like it would need to be in by 11:59 pm on the 19th.</p>
<p>In the years past, the deadline was not set in stone. Usually they mean that those who submit before the deadline will have priority but they try to get everyone an interview if possible even if they submit after the deadline. Places where this is not possible are those that do not have a Duke alumni network or where there aren’t enough alumni interviewers to interview everyone. If you live in or near a major US city, this is highly unlikely.</p>