Your FSA ID: Create It Now (for Student Aid)

Contents

1. What’s an FSA ID?
2. How to create an FSA ID
3. How long does it take to make an FSA ID?
4. Helpful resources for your FSA ID & FAFSA account
5. Finished the FAFSA? Don’t miss out on extra scholarships

Financial aid is usually given out first-come, first-served—so the sooner you submit your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the better your shot at getting help.

Many federal, state, and school aid programs have limited money, and funds can run dry as more students apply. Submitting your FAFSA early boosts your chances for grants, scholarships, work-study programs, and federal student loans.

One common roadblock for students? Creating an FSA ID. That’s why you should get yours now.

Here’s what you’ll need to make your FSA ID, plus answers to questions you might have.

What’s an FSA ID?

Your FSA ID is a username and password that lets you access U.S. Department of Education systems—and you’ll need it to complete and sign your FAFSA online.

What you need to create an FSA ID

• Social Security Number (SSN): Make sure it matches your official records.
• Email Address & Mobile Number: These must be unique to you. If you’re a dependent, both you and your parent need separate ones.
• Personal Info: Full name, date of birth, and address.
• Challenge Questions: Pick questions that are easy for you to remember but hard for others to guess.

How to create an FSA ID

Follow these updated steps to set up your FSA ID before the FAFSA opens.

1. Start your account: Go to studentaid.gov and click “Create Account.”
2. Enter personal details: Fill in your full name, SSN, date of birth, and contact info. Double-check that everything matches your Social Security card.
   • You’ll need a verified email or phone number to recover your FSA ID if you forget it.
   • Avoid using your high school email—you’ll need access after graduation.
   • Each FSA ID must have a unique email and phone number. The new FAFSA won’t let students and parents share contact details or FSA IDs.
3. Set a username & password: Choose something secure.
4. Answer security questions & verify: Pick challenge questions only you know. You’ll also set up two-step verification for extra security.
5. Review & submit: Check all your info, then submit the form.
6. Wait for verification: The Social Security Administration (SSA) may take 1-3 days to confirm your details. Once done, your FSA ID is ready!

How long does it take to create an FSA ID?

Filling out the form takes under 10 minutes, but if the SSA needs to verify your info, it could be a few days before you can use your FSA ID.

Resources to help with your FSA ID & FAFSA account

• Federal Student Aid website: StudentAid.gov has step-by-step guides and videos.
• Customer support: Contact them via their website or helpline.
• School counselors: They can help answer questions about your FSA ID and FAFSA.

Once your FSA ID is ready, you can complete your FAFSA fast when it opens. Remember: If you’re a dependent, both you and your parent need separate FSA IDs to sign and submit the FAFSA online.

FAFSA done? Don’t forget about supplemental scholarships

Boost your college funding by checking out Appily’s scholarship database. We’ve got millions of dollars in vetted, scam-free scholarships to help cut college costs.