Hi i had my date booked before my finance fully had be sorted out. I think as soon as youve payed a deposit they will book the date for you. They can pencil you in one, whilst you get together your deposit. Not sure as for how dar ahead, i know people who have goe for their consaluation on a monday and had the op on the friday!! They just work harder to get your finance sorted for you. Hope thats some help x