How to Get Your PIN for Your FAFSA Aid
The information that you include in your Free Application for Federal Student Aid is used to determine your eligibility not only for federal student aid, but also for state aid and for many private grants and need-based scholarship programs. A personal identification number allows you to submit your FAFSA over the Internet and to view electronic versions of your records --- getting your PIN is crucial for the FAFSA process.
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Instructions
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Go to the FAFSA website (fafsa.ed.gov). This is the starting point for filling out the FAFSA form, getting a PIN and getting help or information.
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Click the icon at the top of the page that has a padlock symbol icon as well as the words "PIN Site." This takes you directly to the PIN information page.
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Click the "Apply Now" link on the main PIN page to be taken to a page where you can fill out all of your information. The application is for students and their parents, if the parents' information is required on the student's FAFSA.
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Read the instructions on the PIN information page. When you are ready, click "Next" to go to the data-entry page.
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Fill out the PIN application form. Never fill out this form for another person --- you can be imprisoned or fined if you use anyone else's information. Enter your Social Security number, full name, date of birth, address and email address.
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Select a challenge question, and provide the answer twice. You can choose your own PIN if you like. If so, it is entered at the end of this form. If you leave the PIN field blank, the system will create a PIN for you.
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Submit your information. You will receive your PIN almost immediately at the email address you provided on your application form.
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Tips & Warnings
Many colleges have limited amounts of money for grants and scholarships, so they often impose deadlines for filing the FAFSA in order to be eligible for many financial aid programs. The filing dates may be very early in the year, sometimes even in January. You can file the FAFSA with estimated financial information, then go back and use your PIN to update the data when you receive W-2 forms and any other necessary documentation.
The data in your FAFSA is kept from year to year. You can use your PIN to file an updated FAFSA instead of having to start from the beginning every year.
The PIN application page has a virtual keyboard for entering your date of birth and Social Security number, ensure your privacy and security. Because you do not use your computer keyboard to enter this information, the keystrokes cannot be captured by any kind of spyware.
Websites are redesigned from time to time. Some of the specific details of the links and icons could change, but the features will remain substantially the same.
Your PIN gives complete access to your FAFSA and related documents. Never share it with anyone, including someone who helps you to prepare your FAFSA form.
References
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