Dear Colleague:
As explained in the June 24, 2026, Electronic Announcement, starting with the 2027–28 cycle, the EDExpress software will require Microsoft SQL Server. We are pleased to introduce a new training course that provides guidance about how to connect EDExpress 2027–28, Release 1.0 to Microsoft SQL Server. The course covers the new SQL Server-based setup, including how EDExpress detects, validates, and configures your SQL Server instance. You will learn how to create the EDExpress SQL Server database for the new cycle, set an application password, and initialize the database with optional prior-year settings.
Note: While we perform the demonstration using Microsoft SQL Server Express installed on a local PC, the training concepts and procedures are applicable to users of any SQL Server edition.
To access the training, log in to the FSA Training Center with your username and password. Select “Systems Training” from the main menu, then choose “EDExpress.” Select “Connecting EDExpress 2027–28, Release 1.0 to SQL Server” from the course offerings, then select “Start Here” to begin the course.
Note: If you don’t have a username and password, scroll to the bottom of the log-in page and choose "Create new account." Follow the instructions to create a username and password.
If you have any questions about the course or have other training needs, please contact us at helpdesk.fsatraining@ed.gov.
Sincerely,
Federal Student Aid