High school seniors, it’s almost time for you to apply for financial aid! I’m sure many of you plan on completing the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) on or after October 1. Begin the process by creating a student aid account (FSA ID/. The username and password you create as your FSA ID will be used as your electronic signature for the FAFSA and for other federal websites. Follow the steps below to create your account. 
How to get an FSA ID
- Go to studentaid.gov and click on Create an Account.
- Enter your personal information.
- Provide your name, date of birth, and Social Security number.
- It’s helpful to provide your mailing address and mobile phone number.
- Answer four challenge questions. Select four questions from the list provided.
- Submit your FSA ID information.
- Agree to the terms and conditions.
- Verify your mobile phone number.
- Verify your email address.
- You can use your verified email or mobile number to retrieve a forgotten password.
- Expect two emails from FSA ID Information.
- Keep the FSA ID webpage up and open a new tab to view your email. The first email says that you can now use your FSA ID.
- The second email provides a 6-digit security code that you need to enter back on the FSA ID application.
- Use the FSA ID to complete the FAFSA.
- If your parent’s information is required on the FAFSA, at least one parent will need to get an FSA ID using a different email address.
Helpful Hints
Consider these tips when creating your FSA ID.
- Write down your user name and password because you will use it every year that you apply for financial aid.
- Make sure you and your parent both have active email accounts.
- Do not use a high school email address because it will no longer be active after you graduate.
- Create an FSA ID before you complete the FAFSA.
- If you forget your username, you can use your email or your cellphone in place of it.
If you have questions about the FSA ID process, call the EducationQuest location nearest you.