Financial Aid Processing Specialist

Summary

In support of the university’s mission and enrollment objectives, the Financial Aid Processing Specialist is responsible for managing and processing financial aid applications, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations. This role involves reviewing student eligibility, verifying documentation, and maintaining accurate records. The specialist collaborates with students, parents, and staff to provide guidance and support throughout the financial aid process.

Processing of Financial Aid

• Monitors and disburses all financial aid awards, including Title IV funding, internal and external scholarships, grant programs, and private loans.
• Evaluates financial aid applications and supporting documents.
• Determines student eligibility for various financial aid programs.
• Originates all federal loans and pell grants.
• Manages all loan processing audits and determines best practice for the department pertaining to financial aid adjustment.
• Performs aid adjustments to ensure accurate and timely financial aid awarding.
• Assists with resolving issues related to financial aid eligibility and disbursement.
• Reconciles monthly and annually all financial aid award information with the Business Office.
• Other duties, as assigned.

Data Management

• Ensures compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations.
• Conducts verification processes to confirm the accuracy of student information.
• Maintains accurate and confidential financial aid records.
• Generates reports for internal and external stakeholders.
• Participates in audits and reviews to ensure data integrity.
• Regularly reads professional publications, articles, and handbooks in support of the continuous improvement of the staff and department in processing and disbursing aid.

Collaboration

• Meets with private loan representatives to learn about the new loan programs available and obtain loan brochures and other loan materials.
• Coordinates with Admissions, Student Accounts, and Registrar to ensure effective and efficient services are provided to enroll and retain students.
• Represents the department on committees or in meetings, as assigned.
• Provides appropriate and accurate information to all prospective and continuing students and/or parents regarding educational costs, availability of financial aid resources, program eligibility, and the financial aid application process.
• Provides initial communication and follow-up via various channels.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in finance, education, or a related field.
• Experience in financial aid administration preferred.

Skills Required:

• Strong knowledge of federal and state financial aid regulations.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex regulations and data.
• Proficiency in financial aid management systems and software.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to interact effectively with students, parents, staff, and external agencies.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Customer service orientation with a commitment to assisting students and families in navigating the financial aid process.
• Strong ethical standards and a commitment to maintaining confidentiality and integrity in all financial aid processes.
• Must be able to work non-routine hours occasionally to support department operations.