<p>it seems those who received early letters last year either mailed their applications early (mid decemberish) or were particularly strong and noteworthy applicants.</p>
<p>i mailed my app mid december, and my status says Decision Period: REG</p>
<p>My decision period is REG too. But I wouldn’t worry about it. The site isn’t really for early notification, only to check whether you have your stuff in.</p>