PIN - What It Is and Why You Need It

What is a PIN and what is it used for?

Your personal identification number is an electronicaccess code number that serves as your personal identifier.

This allows you to:

• Apply online for federal student aid, usingFAFSA on the Web.
• “Sign” your application electronically andcomplete the student aid process completelyonline—no paper is involved.
• If you’re a dependent student and one ofyour parents has a personal identification number, he or she can sign the application electronically online as well.
• Make online corrections to your FAFSA.
• Access your Student Aid Report* and makeonline corrections to it.
• “Sign” a master promissory note* for a federalstudent loan.
• Access your federal student aid records online,including your student loan history informationon NSLDS.

  Go to Get Your PIN as soon as possible—don’t wait until you’re ready to apply for federal student aid. You should request yours before you complete your FAFSA on the Web application.

  If you’re a dependent student, your parents should request one as well, so you and your parent can electronically sign your FAFSA on the Web before it’s submitted. That way, you’ll get your results much faster.

  IMPORTANT:

  The Federal Student Aid PIN

  gives you accessto personal information and therefore shouldbe kept PRIVATE. You should not share yournumber with anyone, even if that person is helpingyou fill out the FAFSA. Counselors should notoffer to hold onto your numbers.

  Apply for your PIN - Free