But the application process is different. Students applying for financial aid check a box on their application and submit financial documentation – so in the ED context that student has essentially made a contingent offer and agreement to the college— they said they needed aid, and so their commitment to attend is obviously subject to that request.
The student who wants merit money but does not have financial need, does not request need-based aid and does not submit financial documentation – has not set a contingency to their offer. That student signed a paper saying if admitted, they will come, no strings attached.