What is a FSA ID?

The FSA ID is your unique log-in credential used to access Federal Financial Aid information applications such as the FAFSA, Entrance Counseling, Master Promissory Note, National Student Loan Database (NSLDS) and other financial aid documents you may need to complete. The FSA ID has replaced the use of pin numbers.  Any student who still has a pin number will need to create an FSA ID. 

Here are instructions for creating an FSA-ID:

  • Step 1: Log into https://fsaid.ed.gov or click on "Create an FSA ID" on any of the Financial Aid websites listed above. If you have already created an FSA-ID but have forgotten it, you can retrieve it at this same website
    • Please Note: Only the owner of the FSA-ID should create the account. FSA-IDs should never be shared
  • Step 2: Enter your email address and create a Username and Password

  • Step 3: Enter your name, date of birth, Social Security number, contact information, and challenge questions/answers

  • Step 4: If you already have a Federal Student Aid PIN, you will be able to enter it and link it to your new FSA-ID. If you do not have a PIN or have forgotten it, you can still create an FSA-ID!
  • Step 5: Review your information then read and accept the terms and conditions
  • Step 6: Confirm your email address using the secure code which which will be emailed to the address you entered in Step 2 above. Once you verify your email address, you can use it instead of your username to log into Federal Aid websites

You will be able to use your FSA-ID immediately to sign the FAFSA. Once the Social Security Administration verifies your information (1-3 business days), OR you have linked your Financial Aid PIN to your new FSA-ID, you will be able to use the FSA-ID to access studentloans.gov (where the EC and MPN are located) and NSLDS (where you loan information is located).