When are References notified by the application system?

[ironmaiden]

Hi all,

 

I am confused as to when the application system sends out request for recommendation letters to the references.

 

Two possibilities I can think of: 

 

1- AFTER THE FULL APPLICATION IS SUBMITTED: meaning that providing the references' information is not enough, the whole app has to be submitted.

2- AS SOON AS I PROVIDE REFERENCE CONTACT DETAILS: even before I have submitted the application, the references are notified by the system.

 

I could not find that kind of information on the websites or FAQs of the schools I'm applying to.

In your experience and knowledge, which of the two really happens? I need this information so that I can time my application submission wisely.

 

Thanks!

[moyru]

I believe as soon as you send the reference request.

 

At least in my applications, I'm able to see the status of my recommendations. Some say 'in progress' so I'm assuming that means they've started!

[rosestark]

I think it depends on the application (software?) that the school uses. I started but have not submitted all 5 of my apps: 3 sent requests out as soon as I added the recommender's info and they say something like "in progress," as stated above, BUT 2 apps state that they don't send the requests until the application is submitted (to my frustration!). So now I'm rushing to finish those 2 since I told my recommenders that they'd be receiving all these emails...