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. The FSA ID is a username and password used to complete and sign the FAFSA. It’s also your account with the U.S. Department of Education and used to complete online tasks like signing federal student loan documents. Because your FSA ID acts as a legal signature, it’s important that you keep your login information in a safe and secure place and not share it with anyone.

If you’re eligible to complete the FAFSA and haven’t created an FSA ID, visit studentaid.gov. Select get started to create your account.

FAQ

Who must create an FSA ID?

Students applying for federal financial aid and parents who are required to be listed on the FAFSA must create FSA IDs.

How do I create an FSA ID?

Students who are eligible for and applying for federal financial aid and parents who are required to be listed on the FAFSA need to create FSA IDs.

To create an FSA ID at you’ll need:

Your social security number (if you have one). .
Your date of birth.
Your full legal name (written exactly as it appears on your social security card).
An email address you have access to.
A mobile phone number (optional).

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.

Does my parent need an FSA ID?

If you’re required to provide parent information on the FAFSA, at least one of your parents will need an FSA ID to complete their section of the FAFSA. For parents who don’t have social security numbers, the FSA will be releasing a new process later this year for them to be able to create FSA IDs.

Should I create an FSA ID if I’m not eligible for federal financial aid?

Undocumented students, including DACA students, aren’t eligible for federal student aid. However, you may be eligible for state or institutional financial aid provided directly from colleges, 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, look at Undocumented Students: Questions and Answers About Paying for College.

If you’re ineligible for federal financial aid, you don’t need to create an FSA ID. You should contact each college you plan to apply to and see what types of institutional financial aid may be available to you and how to apply.

What if I am having trouble creating an FSA ID?

If you’re having trouble creating an FSA ID, 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, contact the Federal Student Aid Information Center at 800-433-3243, or use their Help Center.