The Financial Aid Advisor works closely with students, and their families, to ensure student is properly funded for their education. Advises student about the different types of funding methods available, and provides information regarding all the procedures and requirements of a financial aid program. Makes an accurate assessment of a student’s financial aid need, and presents a financial aid plan to meet those needs. Tracks and monitors all financial aid package activity through completion. Accurate records are maintained in a timely manner, in accordance with regulations, statutes, and company policies.

Financial Aid Advisor Duties and Accountabilities:

• Builds rapport, and effectively communicates and counsels with enrolled and prospective students (and their families) about financial aid and other alternative methods of funding.
• Determines student’s 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.
• Monitors financial aid advising to insure program and audit compliance with regulatory compliance.
• Maintains institutional regulatory compliance in all federal and state student assistance programs.
• Submits 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 Key Relationships:

• I. Campus Director and Financial Services - Group
• II. SAE/Expression local and Group staff
• III. SAE/Expression Students

Financial Aid Advisor Key Areas:

4-8 objectives with associated activities and KPI’s (which can then align with the performance plan) that the incumbent is accountable for.

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 student’s 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

COMPETENCIES

• Communicates effectively with people at all levels.
• Works collaboratively with people throughout the organization.
• Continuously look for ways to simplify and improve work processes to achieve better results.
• Applies skills to work on assignments of moderate to complex scope. Exercises judgment within defined procedures and practices to determine appropriate action.
• Develops plans for accomplishing objectives. Works to improve own efficiency and performance.
• Understands formal structure/hierarchy, positional responsibilities, and standard operating procedures
• Follows through on commitments made to internal and external customers
• Presents ideas and facts clearly and effectively in an oral or written manner.

Financial Aid Advisor Additional Information:

Sitting for long periods. Dexterity and coordination to handle files and single pieces of paper, occasional lifting of items weighing up to twenty-five (25) pounds such as files, stacks of paper, reference and other materials. Moving from place to place within the organization, minimal reaching for items above and below desk level. Strength, dexterity, coordination and vision to use keyboard and video display terminal for prolonged periods.