Adopting a special needs child

My agency notified the Philippines that I am interested in proceeding with an identified special needs child. Does anyone know how long it usually takes to get a reply back? Also I am single and I think that there was a couple from another agency who indicated intrest. They do not have a completed dosier, mine is completed and approved. Even though the other couple does not have a completed dosier, would they get preference because they are married?