I’m having a tough time figuring out which schools to apply early. I’m thinking about applying early to the harder schools to get into, and regular to the less selective ones, so that if I don’t get into my reaches then I can apply to my backups later. But at the same time, a lot of my backups offer Huge scholarships to those who apply early action. Obviously I can’t apply to all of them early, as it would be a lot of money and a lot of time to write each essay. What is best to do?
I don’t think that have enough information to answer. For example, how many schools are on your list? How great of a reach are your “reach” schools? Do you have a safety school that is particularly likely that you would attend if your reaches and matches don’t come through?
I have 2 reaches, 2 matches, and 2 backups. My reach schools are GA tech and UNC chapel hill. I’d say they are low reaches for me. My backup schools I mentioned are my safety schools 
I have 2 reaches, 2 matches, and 2 backups. My reach schools are GA tech and UNC chapel hill. I’d say they are low reaches for me. My backup schools I mentioned are my safety schools @DadTwoGirls
Since money sounds like is an issue I’d apply to the backups early so you don’t lose out on the scholarships. If you have time then put in an application to GATech if your SATs improve since you are in state for that school.
Both UNC and GTech are early action so it is non binding. Apply to them both early to show that you are interested. If any of your schools are Early Decision, do not apply that way unless they are your number one choice and you will accept them and withdraw all other applications.
Please check all the scholarship deadlines. Many schools have deadlines for their merit scholarships.
If application fees are not an issue, apply to all your schools that have Early Action by their EA deadline. It doesn’t commit you and you will hear back earlier. Think how nice it would be to have an acceptance, even if from your safety, in December or January while others are still submitting applications.
BTW - GTech was one of my son’s schools. He applied EA, was deferred to regular decision and is now a freshmen there. Good luck!