I would appreciate some guidance on how to interpret this application status. I am aware it may not mean anything until I get a decision via email, but my application status now says "Returned to department" on the front page of the application page (where it shows the submitted applications)
On the actual application page on Carleton Central, the status went from "Recommended for assessment" to "Review in progress by department" then "Review in progress by Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Affairs" right before the Christmas break.
There has been no change since then. I am just curious to know what this reads as.