UCL deadline changed before last reference was in- is it too late for me?

[gradapplicant472]

Hello all, 

I applied for a distance learning masters program at UCL that had a deadline in late August. I finished my application over a month and a half ago (got an email it was submitted, access to application portal and student number, could no longer edit app etc.), although the school doesn't send the application to selectors for consideration until both references are in. Well, the specific program I applied to has had too many applications and they changed the deadline to mid August. ("Due to the large number of applications received, this programme is no longer accepting applications for 2020/21 entry.") However, my final reference came in three days after this new deadline.

The UCL grad admissions checklist says students should know to get references in before any deadline, but another page states that they withdraw applications if there is an outstanding reference ten business days after the deadline. This leads me to believe there is some flexibility, but I'm not sure. You can no longer start a new application to the program. After the reference was sent in, my application portal automatically updated that the app is now under assessment and has been sent to selectors, and I also received an email stating the same, but I can't help but worry that it's too late. This is my absolute top choice and dream program, so hopefully all is well. However, does anyone have any insight into this? Thanks so much!

[RyanS]

There's typically leeway for letters of rec because those are outside of the applicant's control. If you don't get in, I don't think it will be because of a late letter.