Financial Aid Counselor
About The Position
The Financial Aid Counselor is responsible for supporting the administration of student financial aid at Charleston Southern University. This position plays a critical role in reviewing financial aid documentation, determining eligibility, and awarding aid in accordance with regulations established by the U.S. Department of Education, the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education, the South Carolina Tuition Grants Program, and Charleston Southern University. The counselor provides financial aid counseling to students and families, supports enrollment and retention efforts, and assists with developing and maintaining institutional policies and procedures that promote fiscal responsibility, regulatory compliance, and student success. In keeping with CSU’s mission of integrating faith in learning, leading, and serving, the Financial Aid Counselor demonstrates professionalism, integrity, and a commitment to helping students navigate the financial aid process with excellence and care.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree required.
- Knowledge of Title IV federal aid regulations and state financial aid programs.
- Excellent organizational, communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities with accuracy and professionalism in a fast-paced environment.
- Demonstrated ability to collaborate across departments and provide outstanding student service.
- Commitment to maintaining confidentiality, integrity, and accountability in all financial aid matters.
- Alignment with the mission and values of Charleston Southern University, including a commitment to integrating faith and learning in daily work.
Nice To Haves
- Minimum of one year of experience in financial aid, admissions, or related student services preferred.
- Familiarity with higher education systems (e.g., Jenzabar, Slate, PowerFAIDS) preferred.
Responsibilities
- Counsel students and parents on financial aid options, financial planning, debt management, and the federal Title IV refund policy, including implications of withdrawal or eligibility changes.
- Review, evaluate, and process financial aid applications and supporting documentation to determine eligibility for federal, state, and institutional aid.
- Maintain accurate student records, ensuring timely updates, proper documentation, and compliance with institutional, state, and federal requirements.
- Conduct federally required verification in compliance with U.S. Department of Education regulations and university policy; resolve conflicting information promptly.
- Evaluate and process Special Circumstances/Professional Judgment requests in accordance with federal and institutional policies, maintaining documentation for audit and regulatory review.
- Calculate, package, revise, and award aid, including Pell Grants, Federal Direct Loans, state grants, scholarships, and institutional aid.
- Collaborate with Student Accounts and other campus offices regarding billing, payments, refunds, payment plans, reconciliations, and student account concerns as needed.
- Support compliance efforts by adhering to policy, monitoring requirements, and assisting with internal and external audits or program reviews.
- Host FAFSA completion workshops and financial aid information sessions for prospective and current students.
- Represent Student Financial Services at campus events, orientations, and outreach activities to promote financial literacy and student engagement.
- Perform other duties as assigned that support the mission, goals, and strategic initiatives of Charleston Southern University.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
