FAQs: What is the difference...?
- Is electronic filing really faster?
- What is the difference between my PIN and my Data Release Number (DRN)?
Is electronic filing really faster?
Yes, electronic filing is faster than filing a paper form. In fact, it may be as many as 14 days faster if you sign your application with your PIN as soon as you complete it.
TIP: FAFSA on the Web also edits your application before you submit it. This helps ensure that the data you submit is ready to be processed.
What is the difference between my PIN and my Data Release Number (DRN)?
DRN: Your Data Release Number (DRN) will appear close to the top right hand corner on the first page of your paper or electronic Student Aid Report (SAR). You will need the DRN if you contact the Federal Student Aid Information Center to make corrections to your mailing address or the schools you listed on your FAFSA. The DRN also allows you to release your FAFSA data to schools you did not list on your original FAFSA.
PIN: Your PIN allows you to access and sign your FAFSA, a pre-filled FAFSA if you are reapplying for aid, and Corrections on the Web. It also gives you access to many other Federal Student Aid Web sites. See PIN FAQs for more information about receiving and using your PIN.
