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Director of Financial Aid
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Based on Iowa data
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What they do
A Financial Aid Director directs the allocation of financial aid funds and services at a college or university. Applies college policies regarding aid, manages institution's programs and outreach efforts, assists selected applicants, maintains confidentiality, and oversees employees in the financial aid office.
$111,090 / year median in Iowa
+5% projected growth
Job Description
Financial Aid Director The Financial Aid Director leads all aspects of the University's financial aid operations, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations while supporting student access and success. Reporting to the Vice President of Student Affairs, the Director oversees financial aid administration, Title IV compliance, Veterans Affairs (VA) educational benefits, student loans, Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP), Return of Title IV Funds (R2T4), audits, reporting, and departmental operations The role supervises Financial Aid staff, manages financial aid programs and campus-based aid (including Federal Work Study), develops policies and procedures, prepares regulatory reports such as FISAP, oversees appeals and special circumstances, provides financial aid counseling to students and families, and collaborates across departments to support enrollment, retention, and institutional effectiveness. Minimum qualifications include a bachelor's degree and at least five years of progressively responsible financial aid experience, with extensive knowledge of Title IV regulations, compliance, financial aid systems, and staff supervision. A master's degree, leadership experience, and expertise in audits, VA benefits, and federal reporting are preferred. The ideal candidate is a strategic leader with strong regulatory knowledge, excellent communication and organizational skills, and a commitment to student service, operational excellence, and continuous improvement.