<p>So here's a strange problem. I'm pretty much ready to submit maybe half of my applications. I have all my documents, personal statements written, edited, proofread, letter writers notified. </p>
<p>Something feels wrong though. It feels too early. Is there any advantage of submitting my apps now? Like will the adcoms read it sooner? Higher chance I'll be admitted? (These are not rolling admissions). I'd appreciate your honesty. Thanks.</p>
<p>At UF there is supposedly an advantage according to an advisor, it cant really hurt so go for it</p>
<p>At most biosciences programs, all the applications will go to professors at the same time, a few weeks after the deadline. At those programs, the only advantage to submitting early is peace of mind.</p>
<p>A few of the larger programs do seem to send applications to readers in batches. I submitted my applications early, and had a few interview invitations in hand before Christmas. (For the record, I don’t believe there’s an advantage in terms of being more likely to get an interview invitation – just in the timing of the invitation.)</p>
<p>Thanks! Do your letters of recommendation have to be in too, for the application to be read (early)?</p>
<p>I told my LOR writers they had to finish by Dec 1. Now I’m wondering if I should’ve pushed for sooner, to line up w/ my app.</p>
<p>Yes. Application packages have to be complete, because your letters of recommendation are a key part of how your application will be judged.</p>
<p>Are you sure there’s nothing happening for you this semester that would at all shape your personal statements or feelings for what you’d like to research?</p>
<p>I’m not in school anymore. My personal statement/feelings for research are well established and explained.</p>
<p>Fair enough. In that case I don’t think there’s a real disadvantage to submitting early; some programs might have an early review stage for people that don’t submit it on the last day.</p>