Financial Aid Counselor - School of Arts and Sciences

$48,500 - $73,000/Yr

Tufts University - Medford, MA

Full-time

Hybrid - Medford, MA

Educational Services

About the position

The Financial Aid Counselor at Tufts University plays a crucial role in the Office of Financial Aid, which administers financial aid and student employment for all undergraduate and graduate students across the School of Arts and Sciences, School of Engineering, and the School of the Museum of Fine Arts. This position is integral to providing personalized counseling and support to students and families throughout the financial aid process. The counselor will manage a caseload of graduate students, offering guidance via email, phone, and in-person meetings regarding the financial aid application process and eligibility. In addition to counseling, the Financial Aid Counselor will perform need analysis, award aid, certify federal and private loans, and ensure compliance with all federal and state regulations. This role also involves contributing to the implementation of office policies and procedures, which is essential for both short-term and long-term planning. The counselor may be required to deliver financial aid presentations to prospective and current graduate students and process VA certifications as needed. This position is hybrid, requiring the counselor to be on campus at least two days each week, with the expectation of long hours during peak processing seasons, including nights and weekends. The role demands a proactive approach to managing multiple deadlines and a commitment to providing excellent customer service to a diverse student population.

Responsibilities

• Provide personalized counseling and advising to graduate students regarding the financial aid application process and eligibility.
• Perform need analysis and award financial aid to students.
• Certify federal and private loans, ensuring compliance with all federal and state regulations.
• Contribute to the implementation of office policies and procedures for financial aid operations.
• Deliver financial aid presentations to prospective and current graduate students.
• Process VA certifications as required.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent knowledge and skills.
• 2 years of experience in financial aid, student service, or college access.
• Understanding of the federal financial aid process.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work with diverse populations.
• Strong organizational skills to manage multiple and competing deadlines.
• Ability to work independently and in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
• Strong customer service skills.

Nice-to-haves

• Familiarity with PowerFaids financial aid software.