Financial Aid Counselor

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

• Serves as primary point of contact for current and prospective students
• Counsels and advises students about financial aid eligibility, application procedures, aid programs, costs, and indebtedness
• Uses clear and understandable communication with students, parents, and potential students regarding financial aid counseling
• Affords assistance to students with estimating their educational expenses to calculate their needs for the year, and prepares a financial plan
• Oversees the packaging of federal grants, federal loans, and federal work-study
• Conducts verification review for selected students according to federal regulations
• Reviews and ensures student aid awards are accurate
• Notifies students of changes in eligibility of awards and alternatives to amend the situation
• Ensures compliance with all financial aid policies, procedures, and regulations when reviewing financial aid applications; exercises judgment when interpreting federal and state regulations for specific student situations
• Affords assistance to the Director of Financial Aid in reviews and reports to ensure departmental compliance with regulations
• Maintains knowledge of Federal Title IV awards and regulations as well as FERPA
• Performs other duties as assigned

  Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree, or equivalent experience, with a focus in finance or counseling
  • 1–3 years of financial aid experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Exceptional customer service orientation
  • Exceptional oral and written communication skills; able to communicate sensitive and/or complex information in a confidential and straightforward manner
  • Proficient user of Microsoft Office and experienced in financial database systems
  • High level of accuracy, self-motivation, strong attention to detail, and the ability to handle a heavy workload
  • Familiarity with academic environment, policies, and procedures
  • Excellent organizational skills with the ability to organize and prioritize multiple complex projects and tasks simultaneously
  • Demonstrated service aptitude and ability to work independently as well as with students, parents, and colleagues
  • Willingness to work additional hours when necessary