Department of Education PIN
What is a Department of Education PIN?  It is a personal identification number (PIN) that is used as an electronic signature.  This is used instead of having to sign a piece of paper for a variety of financial aid processes.
Who should apply for a PIN? Any student attending college after high school.  Also, the parent of a dependent college bound student.
Why do I or my parents need a PIN? To sign your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) on the web.
To sign your application for Stafford Student loans on-line.
To make corrections to your FAFSA on the web.
To access your student aid history.
To complete Renewal FAFSA on the web for upcoming years.
How do I or my parents get a PIN? Go to www.pin.ed.gov and follow the process described there.
How long will it take to receive the PIN? If you choose to receive your PIN by email, you can expect a response in 3 business days.  Should you elect the paper process, printing out your PIN and delivering it to you via U.S. mail takes about 7-10 business days.