Financial Aid Counselor

Maryville University • Town and Country, MO

5h

About The Position

The Financial Aid Counselor provides in-depth information and delivers efficient, accurate, and timely service related to financial aid for students, faculty, and staff of the University. As part of the Student Financial Services department within the Division of Strategic Enrollment Management and Marketing, the Financial Aid Counselor works closely with students and their families—both online and on campus—to provide guidance on financial aid options, eligibility, and completion of requirements. The counselor also ensures compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations, while delivering excellent service and support to enhance the overall student experience.

Requirements

• Strong understanding of federal and state financial aid regulations (Title IV, FAFSA, etc.).
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and customer service skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise discretion.
• Proficiency in student information systems and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Education, Counseling, Higher Education, or a related field required.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree preferred.
• Relevant financial aid certifications (e.g., NASFAA) are a plus.

Responsibilities

• Student Advising: Provide personalized counseling to students and families regarding financial aid options, including federal, state, institutional, and private sources. Advise on aid, loans, scholarships, and grants.
• Application Assistance: Advise students on completion of financial aid requirements and application procedures, such as the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), scholarship applications, institutional and federal aid eligibility requirements, and accepting or declining aid.
• Strategic Communication: Provide comprehensive student financial information across communication channels, including phone, email, case, chat, and in person, to address immediate inquiries and anticipate student needs.
• Verification and Eligibility Determination: Evaluate and verify financial aid eligibility, review identity verification, and process applications based on institutional policies and federal/state regulations, ensuring compliance with financial aid guidelines.
• Award Packaging: Develop and adjust student financial aid packages in accordance with federal and institutional guidelines, ensuring that awards are properly communicated and recorded.
• Ongoing Communication: Maintain open lines of communication with students, providing proactive updates about their financial aid status, changes in eligibility, and important deadlines.
• Compliance and Reporting: Stay up to date on changes in financial aid regulations and ensure that the institution remains compliant with all federal and state requirements. Prepare reports and maintain accurate records of student aid disbursements.
• Financial Literacy Education: Educate students on budgeting, managing loans, and making informed financial decisions, promoting overall financial wellness.
• Collaboration with Departments: Work collaboratively with other university departments to ensure students receive the resources they need to meet their financial obligations and succeed academically.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level