First off, it's not anytime. The distribution must occur during the same
year in which the qualified expenses are paid, so you cannot withdraw the
funds a year before or a year afterward.
Also consider that, with a traditional IRA, even though you can avoid the
extra 10% penalty,the full amount of the distribution is still subject to income tax.
In addition, although the assets in a traditional IRA are sheltered from
need-based financial aid, since the amounts withdrawn may count as income, it could affect the eligibility for need-based financial aid during the next year.