Just decided to jump in & share my timelines. I'm in the same boat as you. I got the letter very late from university. I'm going for post-graduate studies in the field of computer science. It's a research based program.
Here are my timelines:
Submitted my documents on June 25th
Received the medical form on June 27th (but I didn't get a call from Fedex so I wasn't aware my documents were back until I contacted the embassy!
)
Got done with medical on August 16th
Returned my passport on August 19th
I'm still waiting for the study permit. My classes start on September 9th but I have to register for classes before September 8th to avoid a late fee.
It indeed is quite a headache. I had a flight booked for tomorrow but now will have to do another booking. To be honest, I don't even feel like doing another booking. Canceling, Scheduling, re-scheduling is madness & the embassy wouldn't even say till when I can expect a decision. I got only some of the shopping done (like, got the leather stuff) & at work, with a resignation, I kind of missed the annual review. I can continue working with the company though if the visa is denied.
I hope those of us who are waiting will get a positive answer real soon. I wish you all good luck!
~Geekess from Karachi