Financial Aid Advisor (Higher Education)

Financial Aid Advisor Duties and Accountabilities

• Buils rapport, and effectively communicates and counsels with enrolled and prospective students (and their families) about financial aid and other alternative methods of funding.
• Determines students title IV eligibility and awards federal, state, institutional and private sources of financial aid to students within appropriate guidelines and regulations.
• Utilizes electronic data exchange software to send and retrieve information from the Department of Education.
• Maintains institutional regulatory compliance in all federal and state student assistance programs.
• SUBMIT REPORTS TO FEDERAL AND STATE AGENCIES.
• Maintains files and databases; certifies student loan applications; maintains and utilizes computer-assisted financial aid management systems.
• Makes adjustments to over-under awards by determining the amount of aid to be canceled or repaid while ensuring accuracy in system data entry and processing, and contacting students regarding possible alternatives.
• Interviews and advises students in regard to educational financial planning.
• Maintains confidentiality of information exposed to in the course of business

Financial Aid Advisor Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration, or related field and two years experience in higher education (Financial Aid preferred) environment or an equivalent combination of education and experience;
• Requires excellent computer skills. Working knowledge of automated higher education management systems; proficiency with Microsoft Office, Windows XP, Word, Excel for MAC
• In-depth knowledge of financial aid and/or prior financial aid experience
• Experience with financial aid reporting systems, including but not limited to NSLDS, Gemcore, and Campus Vue
• Ability to evaluate and assess a students financial aid need
• Ability to interpret and apply federal and state regulations and guidelines
• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills
• Excellent customer service skills
• Ability to build rapport with students and their families; and other SAE staff members
• Excellent time management skills
• Ability to multi-task
• Ability to maintain confidential information