Real-Time PIN for FAFSA

As of January 1, 2008, students and parents will be able to apply for and receive a "real-time" PIN (electronic signature) when completing a FAFSA on the Web (www.fafsa.ed.gov) or when applying for a PIN on the Department's PIN Web site (www.pin.ed.gov).

The real-time PIN is available not only for first-time PIN applicants but also for those who have lost or forgotten a previous PIN. After receiving the real-time PIN, applicants will be able to change the PIN to a number that is meaningful to them.

First-time PIN applicants will instantly receive a conditional PIN that will allow them to electronically sign their FAFSA on the Web. The conditional PIN can only be used to sign the original application that students and/or parents are completing at the time they applied for the PIN. If the applicants' PIN information is accurate, the conditional PIN will then be good for all processes that require a PIN in the future.

For those that have forgotten or lost their PIN, their PIN will be the actual PIN-not conditional. It can be used as an electronic signature immediately for all financial aid processes.