This will help the admission officers to determine whether or not you will be a prospective student before you go through the more complicated process of completing the final application form. Do not put any false name or information on the preliminary application just for the sake of getting an application form or a brochure. A preliminary application is basically a form that will require your basic personal information and may be, a short paragraph on your career goals. You should return this pre-application as soon as possible. Upon receipt of the pre-application, if the university finds your goals, background and abilities compatible to their standards, then will you receive a final application form.
Early applications sent are always beneficial, as they get reviewed and evaluated first.
The chances of getting an admission are always better if an application is submitted to the university before the deadline. Get your applications typed and present it well before the admissions office. Many universities will have a different fee for local students and a different fee for international students. Application fee has to be sent in the respective currency of the country either using a credit card or a bank draft. Do not send cash.