Why is it so important to apply as early as possible for financial aid?
Financial aid is given out from “pools” of money on a first come, first served basis. If you apply for aid just before an application deadline, there may be very little or no money left in the financial aid “pools” because the aid has already been awarded to other students. So, applying late in the process may eliminate you from receiving any money even if you are eligible for large scholarships and grants.