<p>The teachers at my school submit their recs directly to the college center at my school, to a file that is inaccesible to students. We also have to turn in transcripts to the college center, as well as teacher evaluations etc. Then, the college center mails it all out for the student upon request, which is submitted in writing of address to be sent to, name of school etc.</p>
<p>But quick question: Can you submit your letters of rec and evaluations BEFORE the actual common application? Will Harvard still make a folder for me if I do this, and send the actual application + resume + essays over fall break?</p>
<p>Harvard, like most colleges, does have a system for logging school reports, teacher recs, etc. that arrive before the main application and then marrying them up with the application when/if it arrives.</p>
<p>That said, it is MUCH easier for them if the application arrives first (and this also reduces the chance of anything getting messed up). The application instructions on the website strongly encourage students to get the application in as soon as possible - they even let you submit your application without the essay, which you can then send by hard copy later. (My son did it that way and was still admitted, so they don't hold it against you.)</p>
<p>Bottom line, if at all possible, it's a very good idea to get the application in before the other pieces start arriving.</p>
<p>Incidentally, your school system isn't weird- my school does it that way, and I believe many, many other schools do as well- it's to ensure that no students can be accused of tampering with them.</p>