May 15 deadline - last minute application

[miajima]

I'm applying for the MA Psychology program in Boston U since it has the earliest deadline (May 15) compared with other schools. Because of the tight timeline from now til then, I might just submit a few days before, if not on the day of May 15. Am I running the risk of being rejected right off the bat? Also, when should I expect results if I'm applying for Fall'12 admissions?

I swear I will give myself more leadtime when applying for my other schools.

[CarlieE]

Uni websites often give a rough timeline of when to expect a response... you could also look at last years and this years results page here on gradcafe to get an idea of when people will hear back..

I don't think that applications are decided on as they come in, unless they do a rolling admission - again, something that should be on their website. But if that info isn't, I'd call or email their program director or his/her office.

[Ameonna]

Speaking from my experience with fixed-deadline programs, as long as your application is submitted by the deadline, I don't think when you submit will necessarily affect your chances of admission in a big way. Early submissions do show advanced planning and timeliness, and obviously, the earlier you submit, the better off you are in the event that the department somehow does not receive certain materials (GRE scores and transcripts have a funny way of going missing.) Other than that, though, I would worry more about making sure your application represents you in the best way possible than about trying to submit early.