Start Here!

  • It's faster and easier. To apply for federal financial aid electronically, you and your parents must get a Federal Student Aid Personal Identification Number (PIN) at www.pin.ed.gov. The U.S. Department of Education will mail or e-mail the secure PIN to you in about one week. You can use the PIN to "sign" your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) electronically.
  • Use the hot button on this page to complete and submit the FAFSA, or you can get a paper FAFSA from your high school counselor, the local library, or your college's financial aid office. Be sure to file early to meet deadlines.

What Happens Next

  • You’ll get a Student Aid Report (SAR) summarizing your FAFSA and including your Estimated Family Contribution. Review it and make any corrections.
  • You’ll get an award letter from your college stating the aid you can expect if you attend that school. Consider the options outlined in the letter including grants, scholarships, loans and work-study programs.
  • Tell the financial aid office that you accept or reject all or part of the financial aid package. Complete any other forms required by the school.
  • Apply for a loan if needed. Contact the financial aid office to find out about the loan application procedure your school uses. You can submit and sign your Federal Family Education Loan (FFEL) promissory note by completing the e-MPN right from this page.

Apply for Aid Each Year You’re in College

  • If you filled out a FAFSA the year before, you can probably use the shorter Renewal FAFSA.