Do you ever wonder what the Federal Student Aid office does? In this article we'll dive into some frequently asked questions regarding the office of Federal Student Aid, what they do and how they help those looking to fund their education.
We'll also clear up any confusion on the myStudentAid app, and help you get in touch with the Federal Student Aid office should you need any assistance.
What is myStudentAid?
At its core, myStudentAid is an online platform that serves as the gateway to federal student aid programs. It's designed to streamline the financial aid application process, providing a user-friendly interface for students and their families.
It may be confusing if you search the term myStudentAid as this was the name of the mobile app that has since been retired.
What Happened to myStudentAid App?
The myStudentAid app was retired on June 30, 2022 due to low use. This app previously let users such as students and parents fill out and submit the FAFSA.
Students and parents can still fill out the FAFSA form but everything is now done through the Federal Student Aid (FSA) website, studentaid.gov.
How Do I Create an FSA Account?
To create your Federal Student Aid account, follow these steps:
- Visit studentaid.gov/fsa-id/create-account/launch
- Click Get Started and fill out your name, date of birth, social security number
- You'll be required to provide your email address or your phone number when you make your FSA ID
The Federal Student Aid office has put together a resource for additional FSA ID Tips.
What is StudentAid.gov?
StudentAid.gov serves as your comprehensive hub for managing all aspects of your federal student aid. It's the go-to platform where you can seamlessly submit your FAFSA application, explore available aid and grants, receive loan counseling, and effectively navigate and manage your repayment plans.
This website offers a spectrum of tools and information crucial for every stage of your educational financing journey.
Is StudentAid.gov a Real Website?
Yes, studentaid.gov is a real website. It is an official website of the United States government.
Federal Student Aid:
Who They Are
The office of Federal Student Aid is a division of the U.S. Department of Education. They are the primary source of student financial aid on a national scale.
With a dedicated team of over 1,400 professionals, the office of Federal Student Aid plays a pivotal role in facilitating college education opportunities for over 10 million students annually.
What They Do
The office of Federal Student Aid plays a crucial role in administering the student financial assistance programs authorized under Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965. These programs, encompassing grants, work-study opportunities, and loans, offer vital financial support to students pursuing higher education.
Their responsibilities include:
Informing Students and Families
Keeping students and families well-informed about the federal student aid programs, along with guiding them through the application and disbursement processes.
Developing the FAFSA Form
Crafting and managing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form, processing over 17.6 million submissions annually.
Financial Aid Funds Management
Accurately disbursing, reconciling, and overseeing all federal student aid funds distributed to students through a network of approximately 5,600 colleges and career schools.
Federal Student Loan Portfolio Management
Managing the extensive federal student loan portfolio and ensuring repayment from borrowers.
Providing Free Assistance
Offering free assistance to students, parents, and borrowers at every stage of the financial aid process.
Oversight and Compliance
Conducting oversight and monitoring activities on program participants—schools, financial entities, and students—to ensure strict adherence to the laws, regulations, and policies governing federal student aid programs.
Additional Resources
The federal student aid website offers plenty of additional resources if you're interested in learning more about their role in funding student's college education.
How To Contact The Federal Student Aid Office
You can contact the Federal Student Aid Information Center (FSAIC) by phone, email or live chat.
You can send an email in two ways. You can send an email to studentaid@ed.gov or when you login to your account on the Student Aid website, there is an Email form you can fill out.
Phone
1-800-433-3243
Live Chat
To start a live chat with the Office of Federal Student Aid, visit the official website during business hours and access the chat function for immediate support.
A pop up window will guide you in filling out the necessary information to get the chat started. Select from a list of subjects and then confirm what you have a question aboStudentAid.gov
Hours of Operations
Monday–Friday: 8 a.m.–10 p.m. Eastern time (ET)
Saturday: 11 a.m.–5 p.m. ET
Sunday: Closed
Closed on all federal holidays.
Final Thoughts
Although the myStudentAid mobile app has been discontinued, you can still fill out the FAFSA and find more information on the studentaid.gov website.
The Office of Federal Student Aid houses a ton of information that is extremely valuable for those looking to get financial aid, grants, scholarships and more.
It's important to reach out if you're feeling unsure about anything or have questions. If it turns out you need to take out a federal student loan to attend college, make sure you know what you're getting into.
