Financial Aid Counselor/ Loan Specialist

Shenandoah University’s Office of Financial Aid is accepting applications for a Financial Aid Counselor/ Loan Specialist. This is a full-time benefited position located on our main campus in Winchester, Virginia.

The Financial Aid Counselor & Loan Specialist reports to the Director and/or Assistant Director of Financial Aid and plays a central role in counseling students and families while managing federal and private loan processing. This position ensures compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations and provides high-quality service through in-person, virtual, phone, and email communication.

The role works collaboratively with Student Financial Services, Admissions, Student Accounts, and other campus partners to support students throughout the financial aid lifecycle.

• Advise students and families on financial aid eligibility, application processes, loan options, and the impact of enrollment changes.
• Meet with students and families in person, by phone, and virtually to address financial aid questions and concerns.
• Respond to inquiries via email and phone in a timely and professional manner.

Financial Aid Administration:

• Determine and process eligibility for federal, state, institutional, and private aid programs, including grants, loans, and specialized programs (e.g., veteran’s benefits, tuition assistance).
• Review and process Professional Judgment requests, including cost of attendance adjustments.
• Support awarding of institutional and external aid programs, including scholarships and tuition exchange programs.

Loan Processing & Compliance:

• Certify and reconcile federal Direct and private student loans, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
• Review NSLDS records, monitor aggregate loan limits, and resolve loan-related flags (e.g., C-Codes, transfer monitoring).
• Process loan adjustments and coordinate the return of federal and private funds when required.
• Assist with administration of Federal Nursing Loans, including coordination with loan servicers.
• Conduct Return to Title IV (R2T4) calculations for students who withdraw or change enrollment status.
• Provide and document required loan entrance and exit counseling in compliance with federal regulations.

Compliance & Operations:

• Maintain compliance with Title IV, state, and institutional regulations.
• Monitor regulatory updates (e.g., NASFAA, federal guidance) and contribute to policy and procedure development.
• Maintain accurate student records and utilize financial aid systems (e.g., Ellucian) and reporting tools (Excel, Google Suite).
• Run and review reports to support reconciliation, monitoring, and operational efficiency.

Collaboration & Outreach:

• Collaborate with campus partners to ensure accurate and timely processing of financial aid.
• Participate in outreach initiatives, presentations, and training events for students and staff.
• Support special student circumstances and complex cases through team collaboration.

Other Responsibilities:

• Maintain regular and predictable onsite attendance.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Skills

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Strong customer service skills with the ability to communicate clearly, empathetically, and professionally.
• Excellent organizational, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Strong attention to detail with the ability to manage complex processes accurately.
• Ability to analyze information, problem-solve, and exercise sound judgment.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Manage high-volume workloads during peak processing periods.
• Proficiency in financial aid systems (Ellucian preferred) and Microsoft Office/Google Suite.

Position Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution required.
• Experience in financial aid, student services, or a related field preferred.
• Demonstrated customer service experience required.
• Familiarity with federal, state, and private financial aid regulations strongly preferred.

How to Apply:

The complete application will include a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three professional references. Applications will be reviewed immediately and will continue until a qualified candidate is selected.

Note: A pre-employment background check will be required, and a satisfactory driving record may be required as a condition of hire.

Authorized to work in the United States is a pre-condition of employment. At this time, Shenandoah University is not in a position to sponsor international visas.