Financial Aid Advisor - I

South University; Savannah (GA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking educational institution dedicated to fostering a supportive learning environment. This role involves guiding students through the financial aid process, ensuring compliance with regulations, and providing exceptional customer service. As a vital part of the team, you will collaborate with admissions and assist students in navigating financial options, all while contributing to a culture of continuous improvement. If you have a passion for education and a commitment to helping students succeed, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Benefits

Medical

Dental

Vision

FSA/HSA

Tuition Assistance Program

Long/Short Term Disability

Life Insurance

Employee Assistance Program

401K Match

Paid Time Off

12 Paid Holidays

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in financial aid or accounting.
• Strong customer service skills and ability to multitask effectively.

Responsibilities

• Guide students through the financial aid process and required documentation.
• Collaborate with Admission Representatives to serve prospective students.
• Ensure timely aid disbursement and maintain accurate student files.

Skills

Customer Service

Problem-Solving

Communication Skills

Interpersonal Skills

Multitasking

Education

Bachelor’s Degree

Associate’s Degree with 5+ years of experience

7+ years of relevant experience

Tools

MS Office

Financial Aid Software (Campus Vue/Campus Nexus)

Job description

South University provides a warm, supportive learning environment that encourages a community of faculty, staff, and students to help achieve professional goals, both on campus and online.

The university's 125-year history reflects a commitment to education and community spirit, fostering a welcoming environment for current and prospective students, faculty, staff, alumni, and supporters.

Visit www.southuniversity.edu to learn more about what makes us a place where you can make a difference in students' lives.

Benefits include:

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• FSA/HSA
• Tuition Assistance Program
• Long/Short Term Disability
• Life Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• 401K Match
• Paid Time Off
• 12 Paid Holidays

Summary: Responsible for providing general financial aid knowledge and overviews to students, developing and finalizing financial plans, and guiding students and parents through the application process, including verification and conflict resolution. Ensures compliance with policies and regulations while maintaining the university's philosophy of quality service and continuous improvement.

Key Job Elements:

• Collaborate with Admission Representatives to serve prospective students effectively.
• Package financial aid for assigned students, including new, continuing, re-entry, and transfer students.
• Guide students on the financial aid process and required documentation.
• Create and communicate financial plans, explaining rights and responsibilities.
• Assist with alternative financing options for remaining balances.
• Ensure complete and accurate student files and timely aid disbursement.
• Review ISIRs, perform verification, and handle C Code reviews.
• Use reports to analyze and prioritize workload.
• Provide excellent customer service, calming students and parents, and articulating aid status clearly.
• Support training and mentoring of new and existing advisors.
• Participate in or lead special projects as assigned.

Job Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree or Associate’s Degree with 5+ years of related experience, or 7+ years of relevant experience.
• Experience in financial aid or accounting.
• Strong customer service and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to present to groups and interact individually.
• Ability to multitask, work independently, and follow guidelines.
• Proficiency in MS Office and familiarity with financial aid software (Campus Vue/Campus Nexus preferred).

Work Environment:

The environment is dynamic and goal-oriented, requiring multitasking and effective collaboration. A caring, self-directed attitude is essential, along with ongoing learning to stay current with policies and programs. The role involves extensive interaction with staff, students, and external contacts, including government agencies and educational institutions.

Reasonable accommodations may be provided to qualified individuals with disabilities, enabling them to perform essential functions, which include professional communication, media handling, and light lifting (up to 10 pounds).

South University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity, fostering an inclusive environment for ideas, cultures, and perspectives.