Yeah the process in the link I attached earlier: https://graduate.carleton.ca/application-status/ ... is garbage (as per my original comment). Past forums all say the same thing regarding getting offers at various stages of the process and going forwards/backwards randomly. Carleton Central is super glitchy and I think all of the recent confusion proves it.
I think the Carleton Central system is all messed up which is consistent with what people in past forums have said. I went from preliminary review in progress, to recommended for assessment, then on to review in progress by department. According to the link below that order is backwards, despite being the normal trajectory for people in past forums. All told, I wouldn't sweat it.
https://graduate.carleton.ca/application-status/
Got an offer from GSPIA w/ funding on the 24th! Application at NPSIA still reading Recommended for Assessment. Fingers crossed and good luck to everyone!