Can you request a free place?

Yes. Steam has a Playtest request option for players who have not pre-ordered. An application gives you a chance to be selected; it does not promise immediate admission or a place before the test ends. EVIDENCE / 02WARDOGS on SteamOpen source (opens in a new tab)

That is the practical difference from an open beta. A visible signup button lets you apply, while BULKHEAD decides when to admit more accounts.

Why the test uses waves

The developer wants to observe how login queues, voice chat, server browsing and entitlement checks behave as more people connect. Gradual admission is part of that test design. EVIDENCE / 01WARDOGS Closed Beta 02 announcementOpen source (opens in a new tab)

Use the beta access instructions to check your account. If you already have access, the regional schedule is the next useful check.