A Financial Aid Counselor or Specialist provides information and assistance to students and families, including information on student loans and other sources of financial aid. Leads group presentations or provides individual counseling and assistance with the application process; may also solicit and review applications for specific scholarships.
Full Time Description Claflin University is searching for Financial Aid Counselor, working under the direction of the Director of Financial Aid. Assumes responsibility for counseling students (including the adult learner) and parents regarding the financial aid process, over-awards, need analysis, and budgeting. The Financial Aid Counselor manages a caseload of approximately 400 students. Responsible for the federal verifications process, determination of eligibility, and making financial aid awards. Responsible for the determining eligibility for state grants and scholarships for students within caseload. Manage some institutional scholarship programs. Performs any other duties within the scope of this position. Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Accounting, or a related discipline is preferred however, additional years of qualifying experience may be substituted for the required education. Two (2) year's experience in higher education. Knowledge of student financial aid programs and rules, regulations, and eligibility requirements. Knowledge of current IRS tax forms, regulations and the implications of such regulations on financial aid in areas such as tax return filing status, income earned from work, and tax paid. Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and methods including computers and applicable software applications such as word processing, spreadsheets, and databases. Skilled in identifying student needs and assisting students in locating financial alternatives. Knowledge and experience in researching regulatory information using the FSA Handbook and other sources found on the Information/or Financial Aid Professionals (IFAP) website to aid in resolving complex financial aid questions. Must have excellent attention for detail. Analyze and verify a variety of financial data to evaluate student's ability to pay for education. Effective contemporary customer service and receptionist skills. Effective oral and written communication skills. Ability to effectively deescalate any potential of a difficult, angry, or emotional situations with students and/or parents. Ability to exercise good judgment and maintain confidentiality regarding critical and sensitive information, records, and reports. Ability to plan, organize and prioritize work to meet schedules and timelines. Ability to respond to difficult inquiries and requests from students regarding financial aid options and programs. Ability to provide financial counseling and information for completing the necessary application forms and reports.
