Filling out the FAFSA

When to File Your FAFSA

To receive priority consideration for all aid, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) must be received by the U.S. Department of Education Federal Processor by February 15, 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time. You can file your FAFSA after the priority date, but some types of aid will be limited.

Filing Your FAFSA Online

We encourage you to file your FAFSA online as it is the fastest and easiest way to file.

To file online:

1. Request a federal personal identification number (PIN) from www.pin.ed.gov, which replaces your signature. Students and parents will both need a PIN.
2. Visit the FAFSA Web page to enter your information. Remember to enter the University of Idaho's school code: 001626.
3. Review your SAR (Student Aid Report), which the federal government sends you after completing your FAFSA, for possible mistakes. Correct any errors at www.fafsa.gov. The federal government will forward any changes you make to the University. Parents of dependent students will need to re-sign with their pin numbers.

Students or parents who have questions about the FAFSA may contact Student Financial Aid Services by phone at (208) 885-6312, by e-mail or by visiting our office in the Student Union Building.

FAFSA Helpful Hints and Links

• Prior to filing your FAFSA, attend a Financial Aid Night at your high school where a financial aid adviser will be available to answer any questions you have.
• Priority deadline for filing FAFSA and applying for admission to the University of Idaho is February 15.
• If your taxes have not been completed by the time you file your FAFSA, estimate the figures for your FAFSA or use last year’s tax return to complete the FAFSA. Remember to make corrections to your FAFSA after your taxes have been completed. It is important to meet the February 15 deadline.
  
• Do not include decimals in the information you provide. If your wages are $5,055.63, enter $5056. Entering decimals will result in your answer being read as $505,563.00!
• Double-check all information before you submit your FAFSA. It is important that your name is entered exactly as it appears on your Social Security card. If information is not correct, it could create a delay in getting your financial aid.
• Be sure that both you and a parent have signed the FAFSA before submitting it if parental information is required. You will both need a federal PIN that will act as an electronic signature. Apply for your PIN at www.pin.ed.gov. You should receive an e-mail link with your PIN within 3 hours.