<p>So, I'm not finished with all of my essays and I'll probably have to send them in pretty near the deadline. eta Dec 31st I keep getting warned about Common App site getting downtimes but what are the real chances of such a thing happening? Has the site been ever down near deadlines in previous years?</p>
<p>Yes, it has. Also, it’s often pretty slow to respond (hence miserable to use) close to the deadlines. Near every deadline, their servers get a spike in traffic from applicants who waited till the last possible hour to submit their applications. Search the threads for “common app site down” and you’ll find plenty of evidence. If you can, you’re better off cracking down and getting it submitted a day early (and enjoying your New Year’s Eve :)).</p>