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The Dean's Certificate process for my school is supposed to take up to 3 weeks. I am trying to apply early.

If I request them a few weeks before I submit my applications, will the schools hold onto a certificate for someone who hasn't submitted yet? Or do I have to submit my apps first, then request the certificates, then wait for them to come in before my app can be "complete"?

Thanks.

Not sure about all schools, but Stanford and Yale will hold them for applications to arrive.