<p>The deadline for my school isn't till march...would it be more advantageous to fill it out now rather than later?</p>
<p>or would it not matter since the deadline is a while a way</p>
<p>I have read that it is best to file close to the deadline but I would like to here other views on this question. I do not believe there is any advantage to filing early</p>
<p>Some colleges award aid (especially merit aid) on a "first come" basis, and that would mean sooner is better.</p>
<p>You might try the calculator on FinAid</a>! Financial Aid, College Scholarships and Student Loans using the early and late scenarios. If you are like me, you will be trying to save money between now and March. If you have more money in savings, it will impact your final EFC. It also helps to complete the FAFSA the day before payday rather than the day after, as the FAFSA takes a "shapshot" of your income and assets as of the day you submit the form. And Midwest Dad is right about the first-come basis, as some states also run out of state dollars if you wait. </p>
<p>Have fun!</p>
<p>what about your 2008 forms not being available yet?</p>
<p>for many colleges there is a queue.. basically, the quicker you get your app in error free the better...</p>
<p>but keep in mind, if there is an error and you have to go back and change it, then you go back to the end of the line</p>
<p>BBbabe-</p>
<p>You estimate in order to meet the priority deadline, then file a correction after the taxes are done.</p>