It can be random, NRC is now limiting the number of applications that go before a board so if the "number" allowed for a specific board is 50, then the 50 that come in first that meet the requirements in the PA will be forwarded on. I don't necessarily agree with this as it hurts the "best qualified" design.
This is really interesting. Last I heard from my recruiter was that my kit was successfully submitted to the board. Nothing further since that time. So, no news is good news, right? Safe to assume that it was at least considered by the board?