Can you afford AU? Have you run the NPC for AU and discussed with your parents what they will be paying?
Where a lot of ED applicants lose out is in consideration for merit money. Though most all colleges that have merit awards say that all applicants are considered for merit money, it’s been my observation that ED students rarely (if ever, I don’t know a one ) get it. Why should they pay for a student already committed?
In addition to AU, please look at colleges that you know you can afford and that you know will accept you. They may be local schools that are generous. Where you can commute. Yeah, I know it may not be ideal, but what safety schools do is give you safe harbor and meet your academic desires and prepare you when lottery tickets don’t pan out.
I agree that AU acceptance looks good for you. The financials are what concern me.