Financial Aid Counselor Winchester, VA

Shenandoah University; Winchester (VA); On-site; USD 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Shenandoah University in Winchester, Virginia is seeking a full-time Financial Aid Counselor to provide comprehensive financial aid counseling to students and families. The role involves reviewing applications, determining aid eligibility, and ensuring compliance with regulations. Ideal candidates will have a Bachelor's degree and strong communication skills. Experience with financial aid software and a commitment to customer service are essential. This position is integral to student financial services and involves collaboration across departments.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required, preferably in a related field.
• Exceptional communication and customer service skills.
• Strong understanding of financial aid regulations and compliance.

Responsibilities

• Counsel students on financial aid processes and eligibility.
• Review and process financial aid applications and determine eligibility.
• Administer federal and state aid programs, including Pell Grants.

Skills

Financial aid counseling

Compliance knowledge

Customer service

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

Ellucian

Excel

Google Workspace

Job description

Shenandoah University’s Office of Financial Aid is accepting applications for a Financial Aid Counselor. This is a full‑time benefited position located on our main campus in Winchester, Virginia.

The Financial Aid Counselor reports to the Assistant Vice President of Student Financial Services and provides comprehensive financial aid counseling to students and families via phone, email, virtual appointments, and in-person interactions. This role is responsible for reviewing and processing financial aid applications, determining eligibility, and ensuring compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations.

The Counselor works collaboratively with Admissions, Student Accounts, and the Hornet Central to support prospective and current students, delivering accurate guidance and a high level of customer service throughout the financial aid process.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Counsel students and families on financial aid processes, eligibility, and funding options, including federal, state, institutional, and private resources
• Review and process ISIRs, verification documentation, and other required materials to determine aid eligibility
• Perform need analysis and package financial aid in accordance with applicable regulations and institutional policies
• Administer federal and state aid programs, including Federal Pell Grants and the Virginia Tuition Assistance Grant (VTAG)
• Calculate Return to Title IV (R2T4) and institutional fund adjustments for students who withdraw or change enrollment status
• Communicate the impact of enrollment changes on financial aid awards and student billing in coordination with Student Accounts
• Monitor and review submitted documentation to ensure completeness and compliance; follow up with students as needed
• Interpret and apply federal regulations, tax law guidance, state program rules, and institutional policies
• Participate in professional development and remain current on regulatory updates (e.g., NASFAA, federal guidance)
• Contribute to outreach efforts, including on- and off-campus events
• Maintain accurate records and utilize financial aid systems (e.g., Ellucian) and reporting tools (Excel, Word, Google Workspace)
• Assist in developing and maintaining policies and procedures
• Collaborate with campus partners, including Advancement, on administration of institutional and endowed funds
• Participate in team discussions regarding special circumstances and professional judgment decisions
• Occasional travel for training or conferences may be required
• Maintain regular, reliable on-site attendance