Automatically Upload Your Student Loan File with SDS—We Guide You Every Step
- Jennifer Duran

- Aug 19
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 20
Managing student loans can feel overwhelming, but Student Debt Solutions (SDS) makes it easier by automating key steps—like importing your federal loan history from the National Student Loan Data System (NSLDS). This article walks you through using SDS automation to upload your NSLDS student loan file directly from StudentAid.gov, so you can quickly unlock accurate repayment options, forgiveness programs, and more.
Why the NSLDS File Matters
The NSLDS student loan file contains your full federal loan history—balances, repayment status, servicer details, and more. This information allows SDS to:
Provide accurate repayment plan comparisons.
Identify eligibility for forgiveness or cancellation programs.
Suggest strategies for default resolution if needed.
Using this file enables SDS to provide complete and personalized results.
Step 1: Make Sure You Can Access Your FSA Account
Before you start, you will need a Federal Student Aid (FSA) account, this is your login for StudentAid.gov.
If you don’t have an account yet: Create one: Create FSA ID
Keep in mind that it may take a few days for your identity to be verified after setup.
If you have an account but forgot your login or are locked out:
Use the FSA Help Center for password resets, unlocking your account, or recovering old accounts.
Step 2: Let SDS Automation Handle It
Have your FSA login credentials (username/phone number/email and password) ready.
Login to/Create to your SDS account.
When it is time to upload your federal loans, follow the in-app prompts—our automation will ask you if you have your NSLDS file. If you say NO, the program will ask if you have FSA credentials ready.

Follow the instructions to securely log in to StudentAid.gov before you return to the SDS tab.
SDS will ask you to confirm successful FSA login. Then you can just hit CONTINUE and SDS will automatically download the file to your device.
Last thing you need to do is find the file on your drive and upload it to SDS!

Step 3: Review Your Results in SDS
Once your file is uploaded, you will see a clear, organized readout summarizing your federal loans. This easy-to-read display gives you a quick snapshot of your total debt and repayment obligations in one place before moving on to the next step in the analysis.
By using SDS’s automation to upload your NSLDS file, you will save time, avoid errors, and ensure you are viewing the most accurate, personalized student loan strategies available.
If you still find it difficult to use this method, you can use the chat bubble to contact us, schedule a time with our support team to guide you, or download instructions on how to access your file to use on your own. Our team wants to ensure you have everything you need to get the most accurate results for your student loan repayment using Student Debt Solutions.


