Hi Armyhca,
Not having prior military experience does not negate the need for a PLAR; it could actually benefit you greatly WRT training.
1. Dependant on what is determined to be equivalent prior learning(my unqualified opinion is that you have lots

), you could be granted a partial or full equivalency following BMOQ. Partial would include being posted to a training establishment to complete the remainder of necessary training. Full equivalency would allow you to immediately be posted to a unit for duty, as well as grant a promotion up to and including Capt/Lt(N) as applicable, retroactive to enrolment. So yes, they absolutely want to ensure you have the proper qualifications and that the education you received on civvy street is in line with what is offered through the CAF.
2. You will soon find the phrase "hurry up and wait" to be synonymous with military culture. That being said - The PLAR has to pass through a few hands so the wait seems
reasonable. Quick and dirty: it is initiated at the CFRC, reviewed at the CFRG HQ, evaluated and recorded by the appropriate IT&E MA then the results are forwarded back down the the CFRG HQ, then the CFRC and subsequently the applicant/yourself.
3. I do not. But as you mentioned you are now on the later end of the timeframe they gave you, it wouldn't hurt to touch base with your RC to get an update on your file. Most clerks don't bite.