Basic FAFSA on the Web Facts

What is it?
FAFSA stands for Free Application for Federal Student Aid. The federal government uses this form to determine your eligibility for aid, including: grants, work-study, scholarships and loans. FAFSA on the Web is the online version of a paper FAFSA.

Why would I want to complete my FAFSA on the Web instead of on paper?
The federal processor can do an “edit check” of your information and alert you of any mistakes.
The process is quicker. Receive your SAR in 2-3 weeks (or 3-5 days if you include an e-mail address) vs. 4-5 weeks if you fill out the paper version.
Eliminate postal service problems or delays

How do I get started?
Visit http://www.fafsa.ed.gov and click “Before Beginning a FAFSA” to get started.

FAFSA Web Tips
• Use a sample FAFSA worksheet: Click “Before Beginning a FAFSA,” then “Print a Pre-Application Worksheet.” Use the printout as a guide before committing answers online. Do not enter online answers directly form the paper FAFSA. Web vs. paper FAFSA questions are in a different order.
• Save your FAFSA online if you can’t finish it in one session: Click the “Save” button at the bottom of each step to save info for 45 days. Use a password (which you select at the start of the process) to retrieve your information later.
• Fill out a FAFSA even if you don’t think you will qualify for aid: You may qualify even if you don’t think you do. Also being rejected for federal aid is sometimes a prerequisite for receiving a private award.
• Follow the instructions: Take your time and get help if you need it.
• Accurately list your information: Do not enter false information as a way to qualify for more aid. Doing so is a federal crime and can be punishable with fines or prison.
• Print out a copy: Keep a completed copy for your records.

Signing the FAFSA
Whether you complete a paper or electronic FAFSA, you will be required to provide your signature (and parent’s signature if you are a dependent student). Here are three ways:
1. Use your 4-digit PIN (see information below) issued by the U.S. Department of Education to electronically sign your FAFSA. (Your parents will also need their own PINs to electronically sign your FAFSA.)
2. Print the signature page, get the required signatures and mail the form to the address listed on your signature page.
3. The third option is the slowest and is not recommended. Wait until you receive your Student Aid Report (SAR), get the required signature(s) and return it through the U.S. Postal Service via certified mail.

PIN: Your Key to Online Identification
The Personal Identification Number (PIN) is the code that the U.S. Department of Education uses to identify you online. A PIN allows you to:
• Electronically sign your FAFSA to speed up the process.
• Check the status of your FAFSA.
• Make corrections to your personal information online.
• Fill out an online Renewal FAFSA next year.

To obtain a PIN, eligible students and parents can visit http://www.pin.ed.gov. Click on “Apply for PIN” at the bottom of the page. You can choose to receive your PIN via e-mail or regular mail. You must submit your name, date of birth and social security number to receive a PIN. It takes about three business days to receive a PIN electronically.