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Entry Level Financial Aid Advisor Jobs in California

Simpson University

Financial Aid Advisor

Redding, CA

$20 - $25.75/hr

Apply Here: & TrackId=ZipRecruiter The Financial Aid Advisor performs professional-level duties in the Student Financial Services office, requiring thorough knowledge of financial aid programs and ...

Pepperdine University

Financial Aid Advisor

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$24.23 - $26.92/hr

Financial Aid Advisor Apply now Job no: 505149 Work type: Restricted Location: West LA Campus Categories: Administrative/Office Support, Academic Support, Admission/Student Recruitment, Business ...

Pepperdine University

Financial Aid Advisor

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$24.23 - $26.92/hr

The Financial Aid Advisor's primary responsibility is to promote a student-centered environment by engaging and supporting students with all aspects of the financial aid process with care, compassion ...

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Entry Level Financial Aid Advisor information

See California salary details

$13

$22

$31

How much do entry level financial aid advisor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level financial aid advisor in California is $22.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $24.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Financial Aid Advisor vs Financial Aid Specialist?

AspectEntry Level Financial Aid AdvisorFinancial Aid Specialist
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer associate's degreeHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require associate's degree
Work EnvironmentEducational institutions, financial aid officesEducational institutions, financial aid offices
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly used in colleges and universitiesCommonly used in colleges and universities
Search & Comparison IntentOften searched by those starting in financial aid rolesOften searched by those with some experience seeking specialized roles

Both roles typically require similar educational backgrounds and work environments, primarily within educational institutions. The main difference lies in the experience level and specific job responsibilities, with Entry Level Financial Aid Advisors focusing on assisting students with applications and basic inquiries, while Financial Aid Specialists may handle more complex cases and processing tasks.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level financial aid advisors, and how can they be addressed?

Entry level financial aid advisors often encounter challenges such as navigating complex federal and institutional regulations, managing a high volume of student inquiries, and communicating financial information clearly to students and families. To address these challenges, advisors typically receive thorough training, have access to detailed policy resources, and work closely with experienced colleagues. Building strong communication skills and staying updated on financial aid policies are key to success in this role.

What does an entry level financial aid advisor do?

An Entry Level Financial Aid Advisor helps students and their families understand and navigate the process of applying for financial aid, such as grants, scholarships, and student loans. They typically provide information about eligibility requirements, assist with completing forms like the FAFSA, and explain various aid packages. Advisors also answer questions, review documentation, and may help students maintain their financial aid status throughout their academic journey.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level financial aid advisor?

To thrive as an Entry Level Financial Aid Advisor, you generally need a bachelor's degree, strong analytical abilities, and a solid understanding of financial aid regulations. Familiarity with student information systems, FAFSA processing software, and Microsoft Office Suite is commonly required. Outstanding interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate complex information clearly help advisors support and guide students effectively. These skills ensure accurate financial aid processing, compliance with regulations, and positive student experiences.

What are the most commonly searched types of Financial Aid Advisor jobs in California?

The most popular types of Financial Aid Advisor jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Financial Aid Advisor jobs in California?

For Entry Level Financial Aid Advisor jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Financial Aid Advisor jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Financial Aid Advisor jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Financial Aid Advisor jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Financial Aid Advisor job openings:

Entry Level Financial Aid Advisor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Financial Aid Advisor job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,591 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

Financial Aid Advisor

Sacramento Ultrasound Institute

Sacramento, CA

$22 - $24/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

About Us
Sacramento Ultrasound Institute (SUI) is a private, post-secondary, accredited career college committed to preparing students for success in allied health professions. We provide hands-on learning, personalized support, and a student-first approach that empowers our graduates to thrive in their chosen fields.

We're looking for a Financial Aid Advisor to join our dedicated team and help students navigate the financial aid process with care, accuracy, and integrity.


Position Summary
The Financial Aid Advisor plays a key role in helping students understand their educational funding options. This position supports applicants and current students throughout the financial aid process, from application and eligibility determination to award management and compliance monitoring. The ideal candidate is organized, detail-oriented, and passionate about helping students achieve their educational goals.


Key Responsibilities

  • Guide students and families through the financial aid process, including FAFSA completion, verification, loan counseling, and funding options.
  • Review and process financial aid applications in accordance with federal, state, and institutional regulations.
  • Accurately determine student eligibility and create award packages that align with program structure and compliance requirements.
  • Maintain up-to-date and compliant student financial aid records in the student information system (Orbund).
  • Counsel students regarding aid adjustments, repayment responsibilities, and satisfactory academic progress.
  • Collaborate with Admissions, Registrar, and Student Accounts to ensure smooth student onboarding and funding disbursement.
  • Monitor student eligibility and enrollment changes that affect aid awards, communicating any updates to students promptly.
  • Support the Financial Aid Director with audits, and ongoing process improvements.

Qualifications

  • Associate's or Bachelor's degree preferred; equivalent experience considered.
  • At least 1-2 years of financial aid experience in higher education, preferably in a private career school setting.
  • Working knowledge of Title IV regulations, NSLDS, COD, and FAFSA processing.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office and student information systems (experience with Orbund a plus).
  • Excellent communication, organization, and customer service skills.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality and uphold federal compliance standards.


Core Competencies

  • Student Success Focus: Empowers students to understand their financial options and make informed decisions.
  • Compliance & Accuracy: Ensures 100% accuracy in awarding and reporting through diligent review and documentation.
  • Team Collaboration: Works cross-departmentally to improve efficiency and enhance the student experience.
  • Continuous Improvement: Identifies opportunities to streamline financial aid processes and supports Financial Aid Department goals tied to efficiency and compliance.

Apply