I think its probably bogus but I was told by my registrar that sometimes lower tier programs contact you really early to get you interested in their program.

I know of a program that contacts all their potential interviewers by phone before offering an interview, but that is all the phone call means in that case

It is true. Some programs have made "contact," but for me its been more generalized emails that they likely send out to all or most applicants. To think that this is some sort of special treatment is kind of over the top, reading between the lines crap that we students are so good at doing. The contact I have received are mostly emails stating when deadlines and expected interview dates are for their program and how to contact them with any questions. No phone calls or personal letters from the chairman or PD for me...... or anyone else most likely. This is going to be a long road and its just now barely beginning. No use in getting all worked up over these things this early in the game. Cheers.

B4B