Is this standard procedure or is the uni/supervisor interested in my application?

[Brookeey]

Hello!
A few weeks ago, I applied for a PhD scholarship through a local university, they had advertised several studentships, all within one particular field of study. I submitted my application along with all the required documents, and the university contacted my referees, who have since provided their references.
I also reached out to a potential supervisor to discuss my research topic. However, the university informed me that there is no guarantee I would be assigned a specific supervisor. Recently, the potential supervisor emailed me, stating that the university has formally asked them to review my application.
Would this be considered a positive sign?
Thank you.

We review all sorts of phd applications if there's even a tangential link. No guarantee it would be accepted. Very unusual to contact you out of the blue though - I'd never do that unless the student had previously established contact

It’s likely that the supervisor emailed you this just to explain why they can’t also informally advise you on your application.

Some universities encourage potential grad students to contact prospective supervisors direct beforehand. Others really don’t, as the application is part of a formal committee process, so faculty members are discouraged from “mentoring” prospective applicants.

I would see the email from the supervisor as neutral - it’s not either a positive or a negative sign, just informing you about the process.

The OP says she had already “reached out” to this supervisor. In that case I’d expect it’s just a courtesy email to explain why the supervisor can’t informally engage in any mentoring/discussion on the proposal. More polite than just ignoring the student - lets them know why someone can’t just reply informally.