Financial Aid Specialist

Description/Job Summary

Reporting to the Director of Financial Aid, the Financial Aid Specialist supports the administration of federal, state, institutional, and private financial aid programs. This role involves coordinating financial aid processes, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements, and providing excellent customer service to students. The Financial Aid Specialist is responsible for managing student aid records, assisting in the disbursement of funds, and ensuring the timely and accurate processing of financial aid applications, and other duties as assigned.

Responsibilities/Duties

• Review and process financial aid applications (FAFSA) for completeness and accuracy.
• Assist with the day-to-day operations of the financial aid office.
• Provide support to other financial aid staff and leadership as needed.
• Stay updated on changes in financial aid regulations and procedures and attend relevant training and workshops.
• Verify student eligibility and coordinate the awarding of federal, state, and institutional financial aid, including grants, loans, and work-study.
• Assist in the packaging and notification of financial aid awards to students.
• Ensure the timely and accurate disbursement of financial aid funds in coordination with Student Accounting.
• Reconcile financial aid records with Student Accounts, ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations.
• Provide counseling to students and families regarding financial aid options, policies, and procedures.
• Assist students with understanding their financial aid packages and payment plans.
• Guide students in completing FAFSA applications, verification processes, and financial aid appeals.
• Maintain knowledge of federal and state financial aid regulations (e.g., Title IV, state programs).
• Ensure compliance with the Department of Education and institutional policies regarding financial aid processing and disbursement.
• Support audit activities by providing accurate and timely documentation.
• Assist in developing and distributing financial aid information to students, families, and campus partners.
• Participate in financial aid workshops, orientations, and events to educate students about financial aid opportunities and processes.
• Respond to inquiries from students, families, and staff in a timely and professional manner.
• Maintain and update student financial aid records using the institution’s student information system.
• Monitor financial aid records to ensure proper documentation, eligibility, and award distribution.
• Assist with data collection and reporting to monitor financial aid trends and improve services.
• Assist in coordinating the Federal Work-Study (FWS) program, including employment authorizations, placements, and compliance.
• Collaborate with departments and community organizations to develop work-study positions.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree
• Two years of experience in financial aid administration, student services, or related fields in Higher Education.
• Familiarity with federal and state financial aid programs (e.g., Title IV, state grant programs).
• Experience with student information systems (such as Banner) preferred.
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to handle multiple tasks and deadlines.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Detail-oriented with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information appropriately.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and financial aid management software.

Preferred Qualifications

• Community College Experience Preferred.
• Master’s degree preferred.
• Knowledge of NSLDS (National student loan data systems), COD (Common Origination and Disbursement Systems), Imaging System (Or comparable Image & workflow software).
• Four years of experience working in a Financial Aid Office with direct experience performing verification and awarding student financial aid with specific Title IV programs (i.e., Pell Grants, FWS, or state aid such as MHEC).