Correct me if I am wrong but I don't think we have to study anything before stage 2 anymore. I have been reading previous discussions on this thread too (such as documents being sent to applicants) and nothing like this is mentioned in the email, so I am assuming it has been removed (or moved to stage 3?)
Weird about all dates being filled, btw. I also had no trouble booking 7th August. Hope you guys are able to book soon!