Financial Aid Advisor I

Iowa State University•Ames, IA

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

Guide students and families through the financial aid process with clarity, care, and accuracy. As a Financial Aid Advisor I, this role serves as a primary point of contact, providing clear guidance on federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs. The advisor assists students in person, by phone, and virtually with questions related to applications, eligibility, packaging, and general aid options. Responsibilities include reviewing basic eligibility, supporting routine updates to financial aid packages, resolving standard disbursement holds, and escalating complex or sensitive cases to senior staff as needed. All work is completed in accordance with applicable regulations to ensure accuracy, compliance, and a positive student experience. This role also supports the delivery of a student-focused experience through responsive customer service, participation in outreach events, and presentations to students, families, and campus or community partners. It is well-suited for someone who is detail-oriented, service-driven, and comfortable learning complex regulatory information in a fast-paced environment.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree
Legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience in financial aid, student services, higher education advising, or related fields.
Public speaking or presentation experience.
Experience with financial literacy topics, including budgeting, student loans, and responsible borrowing.
Experience with federal, state, and institutional financial aid regulations and policies.
Experience using student information systems (e.g., PeopleSoft, Banner, Workday) or financial aid management systems.

Responsibilities

Serve as a primary point of contact, providing clear guidance on federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs.
Assist students in person, by phone, and virtually with questions related to applications, eligibility, packaging, and general aid options.
Review basic eligibility for financial aid.
Support routine updates to financial aid packages.
Resolve standard disbursement holds.
Escalate complex or sensitive cases to senior staff as needed.
Ensure all work is completed in accordance with applicable regulations for accuracy and compliance.
Support a student-focused experience through responsive customer service.
Participate in outreach events.
Deliver presentations to students, families, and campus or community partners.