Financial Aid Advisor - II

South University Inc.; Round Rock (TX); On-site; USD 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dedicated financial aid advisor to join their team. In this role, you will provide essential guidance to students navigating the financial aid process, ensuring they understand their options and responsibilities. You will collaborate closely with admissions representatives to deliver outstanding service, while also managing student financial plans in compliance with federal regulations. This dynamic position requires strong customer service and communication skills, as well as the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment. If you're passionate about helping students achieve their educational goals, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or Associate's with 3 years of financial aid experience required.
• Strong customer service and communication skills are essential.

Responsibilities

• Guide students through the financial aid process and create financial plans.
• Ensure timely payment of aid and maintain accurate student files.
• Collaborate with Admissions to provide excellent service to prospective students.

Skills

Customer Service

Problem-Solving

Communication Skills

Interpersonal Skills

Multi-tasking

Education

Bachelor's Degree in a related discipline

Associate's Degree with 3 years of experience

Tools

MS Office

Campus Vue/Campus Nexus

Job description

South University Austin, TX, 1220 W. Louis Henna Boulevard, Round Rock, Texas, United States of America Req #2831

Monday, March 10, 2025

What's next for you is the first priority for us! With over 45 programs from associate to doctoral degrees, South University is a private institution dedicated to providing educational opportunities that spark the intellectual, social and professional development of a diverse student population.

Our 120-year story—past, present and future—is a history formed by the many individuals who have developed the education and spirit of community that have become our pledge to the students, faculty, staff, alumni and supporters of South University. Online and at our 8 locations and 2 learning sites, we take pride in our welcoming environment; one-on-one support and personalized attention that helps students define goals and identify the means to pursue them. Our small classes feature hands-on experiences that not only shape students’ skills and excellence in their chosen fields but also shape their characters through encouraging community involvement, volunteerism and the pursuit of life-long learning.

SUMMARY:

Responsible for providing general financial aid knowledge and overviews to new, continuing, and returning students. Develop, negotiate and finalize student financial plans consistent with financial planning policies and procedures and with Federal/State regulations for awarding aid. Explain and guide students and parents through the application process, including verification, conflicting information, and C Code Resolution. Counsel students on all acceptances and other matters related directly to the student financial plan.

Assure that the South University philosophy: quality services to clients; development, growth, involvement and recognition of employees; sound economic principles; and an environment which is conducive to innovation, positive thinking and expansion is considered in carrying out the duties and responsibilities of this position.

KEY JOB ELEMENTS:

• Work cohesively with Admission Representative in order to facilitate outstanding service to prospective students and their parents.
• Efficiently and accurately package assigned students including includes new, continuing, re-entry and transfer students.
• Guide students on the financial aid process, including required forms, documents, and process.
• Create financial plans for assigned students in compliance with institutional policies and Federal regulations, communicate the plan to students and parents, and effectively explain rights and responsibilities for each aid source.
• Assist students and parents with alternative means of financing any remaining balance after awarding eligible federal, state, or institutional aid.
• Ensure student files are complete and accurate and that aid is paid to students’ accounts in a timely manner.
• Review ISIRs, request outstanding documents, and perform all levels of verification and C Code reviews.
• Utilize reports to review students, analyze work needed, ability to prioritize daily workload independently prioritize workload.
• Strong Customer Service, ability to calm students and parents, accurately articulate the status of a student’s aid and account.
• Complete the appropriate training modules within 30 days of the new or revised module becoming available.
• Assist with or perform special projects as assigned. Other duties as assigned.

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor’s degree in a related discipline or Associate’s Degree and 3 years of related experience with federal and student financial aid, or 5 years of related experience with federal and student aid.
• Financial aid or accounting experience required.
• Customer service, problem-solving experience required.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to make small group presentations as well as skill in interacting on a one on one basis.
• The ability to multi-task, work independently, and make decisions based on guidelines.
• Strong basic computer software (MS Office) skills as well as exposure to more concentrated financial aid software (Campus Vue/Campus Nexus preferred).

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

The environment is dynamic and goal oriented requiring multi-tasking of responsibilities at all times. This position requires the ability to work effectively with a variety of personalities both within the school and with the public. A caring and self-directed nature is essential. Must possess a desire and ability to study, practice and obtain additional knowledge and skills on an ongoing basis to remain well versed in financial aid program offerings, policies and procedures. The operating environment requires strict adherence to all regulatory requirements and internal policies. The position works extensively with the financial aid staff and the admissions department personnel. Outside contacts include prospective students and applicants, their families and guests, and others such as government agencies, public school systems and private businesses.

South University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and embraces diversity as a critical step in ensuring employee, student and graduate success. We are committed to building and developing a diverse environment