I agree with SFSege, I have applied way before R1 deadline , I had registered my interest some time in 2014, there was no pre-interview but adcom waived for GMAT based on academic transcripts & achievements.
After submitting my application , I could attain an international roadshow in West Africa. Where they mentioned that people who can visit campus , interview will be through Skype only and in December they will not travel out of US . Subsequently they informed that status of R1 candidates will be notified by this year.
Today is the last day of MIT Calendar 2015. Hopefully today is a crucial day for R1 candidates .
I think R1 and R2 are being assessed together other than those who visited the campus.
Entire journey will be in suspense , so only way is to keep patience.