I called them 2 days ago and they said they are really behind this year. She said they will start sending out interview invites in 2 weeks if everything goes well. As for the application fee request, I sent mine right away without being asked for it (this is what it said to do in the AADSAS manual) and it has been cashed, so my suggestion would be to just send them your check instead of waiting around for them to mail you a postcard. Hope this helps.