I did a tour teaching AAITC as a secondary job. Those students over the age of 25 struggled mentally and physically compared to the young thrusters. That there is any debate with regards to application timings with the OP demonstrates a lack of commitment. To succeed as NCA requires focused commitment with no distractions. Those students that got themselves recoursed or chopped invariably had a conflict of interest that prevented 100% focus on their brevet. Furthermore; it does not matter how fit you are: You are not fit enough to cruise AAITC.