<p>so basically. Villanova is my number one. i'm slightly above the SAT score means and grades seem around where they should be. Does it make more sense to apply early or regular? thanks</p>
<p>As a general rule, if you need to be able to compare financial aid packages, don’t apply Early Decision anywhere. However, you can apply early via Early Action, or Rolling Admissions, or the like and then compare the money when you get the financial aid packages in the spring. When there are Early Action or Rolling Admission, etc. options, the general rule is the sooner the better. This can put you in line for better financial aid packages, scholarship money that isn’t listed specifically on the school website, preferred housing, etc.</p>
<p>Since Villanova is your clear first choice, unless whoever is helping you pay for your education finds it objectionable, and it is not an ED situation, you should apply earlier. If you get in, and you can afford it, you will be done with the whole college app. thing. If you don’t get in and/or you can’t afford it, you can figure out which of the other places that seem decent are actually worth applying to.</p>
<p>Wishing you all the best!</p>