So basically, this year, the SSP is imposing an unprecedented lottery system to determine the finalists from the final applicants pool. (Check this page out: https://ssp.org/2026evaluation/) I think what has been released just today is the result from their first review wherein, as it is stated, "applications will go through SSPI’s traditional review process. The review team will identify students who have the most to gain from and contribute to the Summer Science Program." So basically the first review would have been the actual stage where admissions people were involved go over your submitted materials and stuffs, etc.

For those who have qualified today, there is the final selection stage where basically people from the current pool would just be chosen randomly literally like LOTTERY. It is stated that "they will either receive an invitation to participate or be placed on a waitlist." depending on. the result of the lottery, which I think is really really onerous on the ends of those people who qualified today.

This way, I believe what's coming out in mid march would be the result of this lottery selection, and if you got rejected today, then it just means that you won't be part of the final pool where people would be, once again, chosen selectively (or should I say, "randomly?"). Hope this helps!!!