Financial Aid Counselor

American University•Washington, DC

8h•$27 - $31•Hybrid

About The Position

American University is a student-centered research institution located in Washington, DC, with highly-ranked schools and colleges, internationally-renowned faculty, and a reputation for creating meaningful change in the world. This position is an integral part of the university’s financial aid office. The incumbent is responsible for ensuring the highest levels of service to current and prospective students and parents. The counselor determines the financial aid eligibility of all students and assures compliance with federal and institutional guidelines. Additionally, the counselor advises current students, prospective students, parents, and colleagues regarding federal, state, and institutional financial assistance programs. Financial Aid Counselors report directly to an Assistant Director. The purpose of this position is to provide comprehensive service to prospective and current students. The incumbent not only determines financial aid eligibility but also counsels both graduate and undergraduate students as well as parents regarding the financial aid programs. This position requires self-direction and minimal supervision.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree or equivalent.
3 - 5 years of relevant experience.

Nice To Haves

Master's degree or equivalent.
B.A. / B.S. with at least one year’s experience in financial aid counseling in a large volume, multiprogram environment (Associate Degree and 5 years financial aid working experience can be substituted for the BA/BS degree requirement).
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Responsibilities

Analyzing Data Determine the extent, type and amount of eligibility for various types of financial aid, based upon general guidelines provided by federal government regulations and the institution. Utilize professional judgment to evaluate federal tax forms, calculate assets and conduct need analysis to strategically award students consistent with university objectives. Using statistical sampling conduct detailed verification of all information submitted. This process guarantees the integrity of financial aid packages for both prospective and enrolled students.
Counseling Students Provide financial advice and counseling to both prospective and enrolled students, parents, and AU administrators regarding the application process, bill payment, budgeting, and financial planning each semester. Explain federal/institutional regulations, methods of compliance and procedures, and policies. Understand and inform students of all principles underlying the system of needs analysis, methods of information collection and verification. The duties are handled in order to facilitate the financial aid process.
Decision Making Evaluate appeals for amounts and types of financial aid awards. Utilize professional judgment to determine and makes adjustments, if warranted, based upon individual family circumstances incorporating existing federal and institutional guidelines.
Collaboration Work with other university departments to include: AU Central, Student Accounts, Student Loan Office, Payroll, and the Registrar on behalf of students.