Got an automated email to check my status a week after I had an interview with two of the professors I want to do research with. Kind of surprised considering I have no publications or presentations due to the pandemic, while also having 0 research experience in the field I applied to (inorganic). I'm assuming that my various academic (and non-academic) accomplishments and great recommendations carried my application. Didn't do GRE because of my 4.0 GPA, no TOEFL either because it was waived due to my Bachelor's being completed in an American university.

GPA is Master's.

Email from PI mentioned in SOP asking for interview

2 interview from PIs,..

The DGS wrote a formal email saying that they have a shortlist and he invited to formal interviews with faculty members.

Soft acceptance (I think?) from a POI following an interview in early January. Email says "I really enjoyed our meeting. I think you are a perfect fit for our program, and I really hope you'll join us in the Fall." No idea if this is legit as it is not yet official, but fingers crossed! My subfields are syntax and historical linguistics.

Invite to a virtual visit day

2 years research experience, 2 years TA experience

To the Yale poster below: Invited to formal interview on 1/9/22 after informal interview on 12/15/21. Interview to take place on 1/31 & 2/1.My PI had over 280 ppl apply to her alone, it's rough out here.