While the FAFSA online is better than ever, it never hurts to review the process.  Make some time to review the 7 Easy Steps to the FAFSA before starting the FAFSA online.  You'll be better prepared, know what to expect and you'll be glad that you did.  Please remember to use the IRS Data Retrieval Tool for more accurate information on your FASFA and to reduce documents for verification.  Additional information on this FAFSA option is available at IRS Data Retrieval Tool or our Guide to Using the IRS Data Retrieval Tool.

1. Apply for admission

Freshmen and transfer students should apply for admission online.  For questions, call the Office of Admissions and Orientation at  313-593-5100.

2. Request  or confirm Personal Identification Number (PIN)
If you have not already done so, you (and your parent if you are a dependent student) must apply for a PIN number from the U.S. Department of Education at www.pin.ed.gov. The PIN is used to electronically sign your FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and also serves as an identifier to provide access to your personal information in various U.S. Department of Education systems.

3.  Complete the optional Pre-Application Worksheet
Although this worksheet is optional, completing this form will enable you to complete the FAFSA with ease.  Applicants can complete the worksheet in preparation for their electronic application submission.  The FAFSA on the Web Worksheet presents the FAFSA questions in the order in which they appear on FAFSA on the Web.

4. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) on www.fafsa.gov
We recommend that you print out your application and your Confirmation Page for your records.  Send your FAFSA information to UM-Dearborn by using our school code number: 002326 in the school section. 

5. Review your Student Aid Report (SAR)
Your Student Aid Report is the U.S. Department of Education’s response to your FAFSA. Review the information for accuracy and make changes if necessary. If there are errors on your SAR, correct them as soon as possible.  Retain this document for your personal records. The Office of Financial Aid will receive a copy of your application electronically.

If you provided an e-mail address on your FAFSA, you will receive an e-mail that contains a secure link to your SAR information. Click on the URL in the message and follow the instructions to see all of your application results. 

If you did not provide an e-mail address on your FAFSA, you will receive your Student Aid Report in the mail.

6. If requested, provide additional information 
The Office of Financial Aid will automatically notify you of any supporting documentation which you must submit.

7. Review and respond to your Financial Aid Offer
The Office of Financial Aid accepts all grants on your behalf of students, but requires your decision on loans and work study awards. You may accept your financial aid offers on UM-Dearborn Connect.  Accepted amounts will be divided equally between the Fall and Winter Terms.

If you are receiving private scholarships, benefits from your employer in the form of tuition plans, and/or other sources of funding, your award may need to be revised.  A revised financial aid award will be sent to notify you of any changes to your original award.