Financial Aid Counselor

Department

521000 - Financial Aid

Position Summary

The Financial Aid Counselor is a key customer service representative in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment. This role is responsible for determining eligibility for and awarding federal, state, and institutional funds. The Counselor will manage specialized tasks and projects, utilizing various software applications. Acting as a liaison between students, parents, university personnel, and relevant federal and state agencies, the Counselor also supports all office duties. Additionally, this position contributes to the University's enrollment and student success initiatives.

Essential Duties

• Serves as a frontline customer service representative, providing assistance to students and families regarding financial aid.
• Analyzes and processes financial aid applications to determine eligibility and awards, in accordance with federal, state, donor, and institutional guidelines.
• Requests additional information as needed based on analysis and review.
• Performs verifications to resolve discrepancies in awards.
• Notifies students of any changes in their aid eligibility.
• Utilizes information systems to input data, maintain databases, conduct research, and generates reports utilizing student data.
• Selects and notifies recipients for specific programs in a timely manner.
• Addresses inquiries from students, parents, or guardians regarding financial aid programs and eligibility, both in person and in writing.
• Analyzes system-generated reports (e.g., grades, enrollment status, award status) to ensure continued compliance and eligibility for students receiving aid.
• Resolves financial aid issues and questions received via email, texts, and phone calls.
• Assists in the reconciliation of federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs to ensure compliance.
• Represents the Office of Financial Aid at events, including Graduate and Adult Open Houses and Undergraduate Admissions Open Houses.
• Conducts FAFSA workshops and financial aid presentations.
• Adheres to FERPA policies and keeping current on updates to state and federal regulations.

Secondary Responsibilities

• Other duties as assigned.