<p>spacecadet is right about the fact that some schools run out of grant money and the sooner you submit your FAFSA, the better as you will be first in line for limited funds. However, Duke IS NOT one of those schools. They do not give preferential packaging to those that submit their FAFSA early, or even for those with better stats. Their endowment fully funds guaranteeing to meet the full need of all accepted students and your financial aid package will be the same whether you are an ED or RD student, and regardless of when you submit your FAFSA - as long as it is submitted on time. The aid you get, and the packaging of % of loans, work study and grants will be solely based on the EFC that they compute for you. Not on the timing of submission.</p>