How strict are these deadlines at most colleges?

<p>Obviously deadlines matter, but most colleges seem really forgiving about stuff not being there/getting lost or whatever. They all say “If we don’t have something we’ll call you a few weeks after the deadline and let you know.” Do they call you and ask you to resend it or do they call you just to say “Sorry we don’t have your _____, you’re outta here!” ?</p>