Financial Aid Advisor

UMass Global; United States; Hybrid; USD 28,000 - 33,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Remote options

Tuition discounts

Retirement plan

Job summary

UMass Global is hiring a Financial Aid Advisor to process applications, verify data, and determine eligibility in accordance with federal and state guidelines. This role maintains student financial aid records and supports compliance across departments.

The position involves updating systems, coordinating with student services, and ensuring accurate disbursement of aid while following university policies. A Bachelor's degree and at least one year in financial aid or student services are required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum 1 year in financial aid or student services environment.
• Strong knowledge of federal and state financial aid regulations.

Responsibilities

• Process financial aid applications and determine eligibility.
• Verify data and resolve discrepancies in the aid system.
• Authorize payment of financial aid awards to student accounts.
• Maintain organized student files and compliance records.

Skills

Regulatory knowledge

Data verification

Customer service

Attention to detail

Communication

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Tools

Banner

Regent Award

Soft Docs

COD/NSLDS

MS Office

Job description

ABOUT US

University of Massachusetts Global is a private, nonprofit affiliate of the University of Massachusetts, created to help working adults change their lives through flexible, high-quality education built for real life. Regionally accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) and recognized by U.S. News & World Report among the Best Online Programs for 13 consecutive years (2013–2025), the university has a long track record of online innovation. Students across 49 states and internationally can upskill, reskill, and move forward without putting life on hold through technology-enabled, real-world learning. With 55+fully online, career-focused programs designed around the realities of work, family, and constant change, we remain ever-focused on developing future-ready learners who can thrive in a rapidly shifting world. This position is open to candidates who currently reside in one of the following approved states from which the role may be performed remotely: Alabama, Arizona, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Minnesota, Nevada, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Wisconsin.

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Financial Aid Advisor processes financial aid applications and determines financial aid eligibility. The position is responsible for maintaining and updating student financial aid records. This position reviews applications for completeness, verifies data, and ensures compliance with federal, state, and university guidelines.

Job Description TYPE OF SUPERVISION: Receive general supervision from the Assistant Director of Financial Aid Operations. General Supervision — indicates that the incumbent performs a variety of duties; some of which may be complex duties within established policy guidelines; and receives occasional supervision.

POSITION DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Processing Financial Aid Requests
Review financial aid applications and related documents to confirm completeness, accuracy, and eligibility based on established federal, state, and university guidelines
Verify student information and resolve basic discrepancies by collecting additional documentation or confirming data in the financial aid system
Processes institutional scholarship awards, tuition discounts, partnerships, and other aid programs as directed, ensuring correct entry into student accounts
Input and update student data in financial aid software to process awards and adjustments for federal, state institutional and external assistance programs
Reconciles financial aid and admissions records to confirm student status before aid is processed or adjusted.
Authorizes payment of financial aid awards to student accounts
Maintain accurate, well-organized electronic and paper files, including clear notes on financial aid activities and student communications
Confirm that all required documentation and federal verification codes are cleared before aid is finalized or funds are disbursed
Student Service Support Provides guidance and updates to student services staff on routine financial aid procedures and student documentation requirements
Assist with sharing information about changes in financial aid systems, forms, and processes to ensure consistency across the team
Collaborate with the student services and other staff to help resolve student questions and concerns related to financial aid or billing
Compliance Applies and enforces established financial aid policies and procedures to ensure compliance with applicable federal and state laws, regulations, and university requirements.
Identifies and reports potential policy, procedural, or compliance concerns to the appropriate leader to support ongoing compliance with federal, state, and university financial‑aid requirements
Maintains student files and program records for compliance with audit and program reviews.
Other Assists with annual reviews and updates to financial aid forms to ensure compliance in awarding financial aid funds
Participate in financial aid software update testing, record reviews, and other assigned projects
Perform other duties, as assigned

POSITION SPECIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, CERTIFICATION AND/OR LICENSES: Bachelor’s Degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience
Minimum of 1 year of experience working in a financial aid and student services environment
ESSENTIAL KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Knowledge of federal and state financial aid regulations, along with basic office procedures and recordkeeping practices.
Skill in reviewing and applying eligibility criteria using established guidelines and calculations.
Ability to perform accurate arithmetic computations (addition, subtraction, percentages, and ratios).
Ability to use computer systems and financial aid software to enter, review, and update student information.
Skill in clear, professional communication, both verbal and written, with students, staff, and the public.
Ability to manage multiple tasks, meet deadlines, and stay organized in a busy work environment.
Ability to provide courteous, helpful service to a diverse student community and maintain professionalism in difficult interactions.
Desired: Knowledge/experience with common student information systems and financial aid systems such as Banner and Regent Award is preferred.
Machines, Tools, Equipment, Electronic Devices and Software: Personal computer and intermediate knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite, including word, excel, and outlook and video conferencing tools (Teams, Zoom).
Familiarity with Banner, Regent Award, Soft Docs, and federal systems including COD and NSLDS.
Contact with Students: Frequent Contact with Faculty and/or Staff: Frequent Contact with Community and Vendors: Occasional
The hiring range for this position is $20.00-$24.90 hourly.
Offers are determined by a variety of factors, including but not limited to geographical location, knowledge, skills, years & depth of experience, and equity with internal team members.

BENEFITS AND PERKS

At the University of Massachusetts Global, we support your total well-being with flexible and meaningful benefits: Health: Medical, dental, and vision coverage with spending account options.
Work‑Life Balance: Remote options, flexible schedules, 1/2 day Fridays (biweekly), generous time off, including paid holidays and a paid winter break.
Financial Security: Life, disability, accident, legal, identity protection, and student debt support.
Retirement: 403(b) plan with a Roth option. 3% non-elective contribution and up to 6% match for a 9% total employer contribution!
Education: Tuition discounts for employees and family and Tuition Exchange program with other universities.
PSLF eligible employer.
Wellness: Counseling services, Free Calm Health subscription and year-round wellness programs.

Equal Employment Opportunity – UMass Global is committed to providing an educational and work environment free of unlawful discrimination and harassment in any form. UMass Global prohibits all forms of discrimination and harassment on the basis of age, race (including hairstyle/texture, protective hairstyles, braids, locks, and twists), color, religion (including religious observance, belief, practice dress and grooming practices), citizenship, pregnancy (including temporary physical or mental limitations related to, affected by, or arising out of pregnancy, childbirth, or any related medical conditions), sex, gender identity, gender expression, transgender status, national origin, ancestry, physical and/or mental disability, legally‑protected medical condition, military (past, present or prospective) status, veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation, sexual and reproductive health, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by local, State or Federal law. Reasonable Accommodation – UMass Global provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process, please notify the recruitment department at [e-mail].

Join UMass Global Help working adults change their lives through accessible, inclusive, and transformative education built for real life. As a private, nonprofit affiliate of the University of Massachusetts, we pair academic excellence with flexibility for today’s learners.

Careers With Impact At UMass Global, your work supports adult students who are advancing their careers, families, and communities through education. You’ll be part of a mission‑driven team helping them reach their goals. Our Values in Action Collaboration, integrity, innovation, and a focus on student success guide how we support one another.

Benefits and Flexibility Team members enjoy competitive benefits and resources that support their wellbeing, professional growth, and work–life integration. Many roles offer flexible or remote‑friendly arrangements that reflect the same real‑life adaptability we provide our students.

Equal Opportunity UMass Global is committed to an educational and work environment free of unlawful discrimination and harassment. All qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to protected characteristics under applicable law.