1

College Financial Aid Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. Experience: Two (2) years of professional financial aid, finance advising, or finance counseling related experience. Other: Additional work ...

College Admissions Advisor

Arlington, VA · On-site

$18.12 - $21.82/hr

Analyze the financial health of colleges/universities and help clients understand the financial aid ... Counsel current college students who are considering a major change. * Help clients assess their ...

College Admissions Advisor

Arlington, VA · On-site

$18.12 - $21.82/hr

Analyze the financial health of colleges/universities and help clients understand the financial aid ... Counsel current college students who are considering a major change. * Help clients assess their ...

... financial aid and college admissions process. CORE COMPENTENCIES REQUIRED: - MUST DEMONSTRATE strong verbal, writing, and public speaking skills. - MUST DEMONSTRATE attention to detail and respect ...

... financial aid and college admissions process. CORE COMPENTENCIES REQUIRED: - MUST DEMONSTRATE strong verbal, writing, and public speaking skills. - MUST DEMONSTRATE attention to detail and respect ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

College Financial Aid information

See Reston, VA salary details

$17.2K

$47.2K

$67.6K

How much do college financial aid jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for college financial aid in Reston, VA is $47,183.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,600.00 and $53,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is college financial aid?

College financial aid refers to funding that helps students and their families pay for college expenses, including tuition, fees, room, board, and other related costs. Financial aid can come in the form of grants, scholarships, work-study programs, and student loans. The aid can be provided by federal and state governments, colleges, or private organizations, and eligibility is typically determined based on financial need, academic merit, or other criteria.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a college financial aid advisor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a College Financial Aid Advisor, you need in-depth knowledge of federal, state, and institutional financial aid regulations, usually supported by a bachelor’s degree in a related field. Familiarity with financial aid management systems (such as Banner or PowerFAIDS), FAFSA processing tools, and data privacy standards is essential. Strong interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and problem-solving abilities help advisors effectively communicate complex information and support students’ needs. These skills ensure students receive accurate guidance, maintain compliance, and maximize access to educational funding.

What are some common challenges faced by college financial aid officers and how can they be managed?

College Financial Aid Officers often encounter challenges such as managing large volumes of applications during peak enrollment periods, staying updated with frequently changing federal and state regulations, and providing clear communication to students and families about complex financial aid policies. To manage these challenges, officers rely on strong organizational skills, ongoing professional development, and effective teamwork within their department. Additionally, many institutions utilize specialized software and regular training to streamline processes and ensure compliance, helping officers deliver timely and accurate support to students.

What is the difference between College Financial Aid vs College Financial Aid Advisor?

AspectCollege Financial AidCollege Financial Aid Advisor
CredentialsTypically requires knowledge of financial aid programs, sometimes a degree in finance or related fieldRequires knowledge of financial aid, often a degree or certification in counseling or finance
Work EnvironmentAdministrative offices, financial aid departments, online platformsStudent counseling sessions, financial aid offices, workshops
Employer & Industry UsageColleges, universities, educational institutionsColleges, universities, financial aid offices

College Financial Aid refers to the programs and resources available to help students pay for college, including grants, loans, and scholarships. In contrast, a College Financial Aid Advisor is a professional who guides students through the application process, helps them understand their options, and assists in securing financial aid. While the former is a broad concept, the latter is a specific role within the educational industry focused on student support.

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for College Financial Aid jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most College Financial Aid job openings:

Infographic showing various College Financial Aid job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,183 per year, or $22.7 per hour.

Financial Aid Counselor

University of Maryland

College Park, MD • On-site

$55K - $66K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


University Of Maryland, Baltimore rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

262nd of 627 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Job Description Summary
The Office of Student Financial Aid (OSFA) seeks a Financial Aid Counselor in our Student Support unit, who under general supervision, will work independently to perform financial aid counseling and other administrative processes to support students and staff on financial aid. The Financial Aid Counselor will assist with the following important tasks:
- Providing consistent and high-quality customer service to students and families on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and their financial aid options at the University of Maryland.
- Supporting the administration of the FAFSA and financial aid programs, which includes but are not limited to, conducting financial need analysis, aid offers, reconsideration of aid, review of the cost of attendance, verification, loan processing, review of Satisfactory Progress Policy and Return to Title IV (R2T4).
- Using financial aid systems, websites and data reports for financial aid processing.
- Collaborating with OSFA, Enrollment Management (EM) and other campus partners on financial aid and OSFA projects/services.
- Representing OSFA on financial aid matters for OSFA/EM outreach events for campus and community partners as needed.
Physical Demands: Work is performed in an office environment and requires the ability to operate standard office equipment and keyboards. Must have the ability to lift and carry small parcels, packages and other items,. Ability to walk/travel short distances to deliver and pick up materials.
Licenses/Certifications: N/A
Minimum Qualifications
Education: Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.
Experience: Two (2) years of professional financial aid, finance advising, or finance counseling related experience.
Other: Additional work experience as defined above may be substituted on a year for year basis for up to four (4) years of the required education.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIES:
Knowledge of financial aid policies and procedures.
Knowledge of federal, state, and other applicable related laws, rules, regulations, and ordinances.
Knowledge of Title IV regulations, policies and procedures.
Skill in oral and written communication.
Skill in the use of Microsoft Office products.
Skill in attention to detail when reviewing and entering data.
Ability to multitask and prioritize assignments.
Ability to interpret and apply policies, procedures, regulations, and laws.
Ability and knowledge to assist in multiple areas throughout the office.
Ability to organize and prioritize multiple tasks.
Ability to work in and promote a team environment.
Ability to interpret and communicate information based on knowledge of institutional policies, procedures, and departmental considerations.
Additional Job Details
Preferences:
  • Candidate possess strong counseling skills and experience.
  • Knowledge of an automated data processing system and one year experience in customer services with experience in a financial aid office preferred.
  • Experience with administering Maryland state financial aid programs

Required Application Materials:
  • Resume
  • Cover Letter
  • References

Best Consideration Date: September 28, 2026
Posting Close Date: September 28, 2026
Open Until Filled: No
"UMD will not sponsor the successful candidate for work authorization in the United States now or in the future."
Job Risks
Not Applicable to This Position
Financial Disclosure Required
No
For more information on Financial Disclosure, please visit Maryland's State Ethics Commission website.
Department
SVPAAP-EM-Financial Aid Services
Worker Sub-Type
Staff Regular
Salary Range
$55,000.00 - $66,000.00
Benefits Summary
For more information on Regular Exempt benefits, select this link.
Background Checks
Offers of employment are contingent on completion of a background check. Information reported by the background check will not automatically disqualify anyone from employment. Before any adverse decision, the finalist will have an opportunity to provide information to the University regarding disclosable background check information. The University reserves the right to rescind the offer of employment or otherwise decline or terminate employment if the information reported by the background check is deemed incompatible with the position, regardless of when the background check is completed.
Employment Eligibility
The successful candidate must complete employment eligibility verification (on Form I-9) by presenting documents that establish identity and work authorization within the timeframe required by federal immigration law, and where applicable, to demonstrate renewed employment authorization. Failure to complete employment eligibility verification or reverification within the timeframe set forth by law may result in suspension or termination of employment.
EEO Statement
The University of Maryland, College Park is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment. Please read the University's Equal Employment Opportunity Statement of Policy.
Title IX Non-Discrimination Notice
Resources
  • Learn how military skills translate to civilian opportunities with O*Net Online

Search Firm Managed Recruitment
There are some positions that are not advertised on this career site as the search is being managed by a Search Firm.
Please visit the link below to see these available opportunities:
Search Firm Managed Vacancies

What University Of Maryland, Baltimore employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom