What is FSA (Federal Student Aid) ID?
As you prepare to fill out the FAFSA ®, one of the first things you need to do is create an FSA ID . This is an account username and password for students and parents to access the FAFSA and sign the application electronically. It’s also how you log in to certain U.S. Department of Education websites to complete tasks like signing federal student loan documents, completing loan entrance counseling, and enrolling in loan repayment options. Because your FSA ID acts as an electronic legal signature, it’s important that you keep your login information in a safe and secure place and not share it with anyone.
The FSA ID is an essential part of successfully completing the FAFSA and will be used throughout your college career to access federal financial aid websites. If you haven’t created an FSA ID already and have a social security number, you should make one before you fill out the FAFSA at studentaid.gov.
FAQ
How do I create an FSA ID?
In order to create an FSA ID at studentaid.gov , you’ll need:
- Your social security number.
- Your date of birth.
- Your full legal name (written exactly as it appears on your social security card).
- A mobile phone number and/or email address you have access to.
A social security number, mobile phone number, and email address can only be associated with one FSA ID. This means you can’t make multiple accounts for yourself, and if you share an email or phone number with someone, only one person can use that information to create an FSA ID.
Do I need an FSA ID to complete the FAFSA?
Yes. If you have a social security number, you should create an FSA ID to fill out and submit the FAFSA. If you’re unable to create an FSA ID, you’ll be required to print, sign, and mail a signature page to submit and process your application. The signature page takes at least two weeks to process and, for some students, may take even longer.
Does my parent need an FSA ID?
If you’re required to provide parent information on the FAFSA, one of your parents will need to sign the FAFSA for it to be fully processed. If your parent has a social security number, they’ll need to create an FSA ID to sign the form. If your parent doesn’t have a social security number, they’ll be unable to create an FSA ID. They’ll need to print, sign, and mail a signature page to sign your FAFSA.
Can I create an FSA ID without a social security number?
If you’re a student:
A student must have a social security number to create an FSA ID. If you don’t have a social security number, you should contact each college you plan to apply to and see what information they’d like you to submit. Some colleges may ask you to complete the FAFSA, but other colleges may have a different process. Undocumented students, including DACA students, aren’t eligible for federal student aid. However, you may be eligible for state or college financial aid, in addition to private scholarships. If you’re an undocumented or DACA student and would like to learn more about what the financial aid process may look like, take a look at Undocumented Students: Questions and Answers about Paying for College .
If you’re a parent:
A parent who doesn’t have a social security number will be unable to create an FSA ID. In this case, parents will need to print, sign, and mail a signature page for the FAFSA to be processed.
What if I am having trouble creating an FSA ID?
If you’re having trouble creating an FSA ID, you should first ensure that the personal information you entered exactly matches your social security card. If the personal information matches and you’re still having problems, you should contact the Federal Student Aid Information Center at 800-433-3243. Or use their Help Center.