FAFSA on how to obtain a FAFSA ID

May 2016, Issue No.55

FAFSA Switches From PIN to ID. What You Should Know.

Have your students applied for FAFSA yet? It is important to advise them that the way to access FAFSA has changed. Students must now get an FSA ID, instead of a Federal Student Aid PIN, which has been retired after 17 years. New requirement: Students will need a FSA ID to apply for Federal Student Aid Here is a breakdown of the new ID: WHAT is FSA ID? FSA ID (Federal Student Aid ID) is the new username and password students will need to log into Federal Student Aid websites and to sign FAFSA. It replaces the old Federal Student Aid PIN and is more modern and secure. WHEN should students get an FSA ID? As soon as possible! It must be done before submitting FAFSA. WHY should they get an FSA ID? Students cannot access a Federal Student Aid website without it. This includes fafsa.gov or StudentLoans.gov. If submitting FAFSA online with signatures, students and their parents MUST have separate FSA IDs to legally sign the document. If a student has an ID, but their parent does not or cannot, they should choose the option to submit without signatures and print and mail a signature page. HOW can students get it? Students can register for FSA IDs at StudentAid.gov/fsaid. If registering for the first time, they can submit FAFSA right away. If they have an old Federal Student Aid PIN, however, they should link it to their new FSA ID. They will then need to wait up to 3 days for email confirmation that the accounts have been verified and linked. MDC Can Help You As a Professional in the Field of Education MDC's School of Education can help you earn your professional degree or certification in education. See all our education programs and apply today.