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Financial Aid Advisor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Financial Aid Advisor

NM · On-site

$18.88/hr

The Financial Aid Advisor is responsible for counseling students/prospective students and families on financial aid processes, requirements, and aid eligibility to support the Student Debt ...

Paid holidays The Financial Aid Advisor will work a full-time schedule, Monday through Friday, with one evening shift per week until 8 PM . This schedule ensures a consistent routine and a healthy ...

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Financial Aid Advisor

Claremont, CA

$20 - $25.75/hr

Financial Aid Advisor Cover letters are required to be considered for this position. PRIMARY PURPOSE/GENERAL DESCRIPTION: Reporting to the Director of Financial Aid and working closely with the ...

Financial Aid Advisor

Claremont, CA · On-site

$20 - $25.75/hr

Financial Aid Advisor Cover letters are required to be considered for this position. PRIMARY PURPOSE/GENERAL DESCRIPTION: Reporting to the Director of Financial Aid and working closely with the ...

Financial Aid Advisor

Austin, TX · On-site

$19.50 - $25.25/hr

Financial Aid Advisers are responsible for supporting students seeking federal aid and other financing to attend school. The ideal candidate should demonstrate integrity, ethical behavior, and a high ...

Financial Aid Advisor

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$50K - $58K/yr

Job Summary The Financial Aid Advisor plays a key student-facing role in supporting the daily operations of the Financial Aid Office. This position ensures the effective delivery of financial aid ...

Paid holidays The Financial Aid Advisor will work a full-time schedule, Monday through Friday, with one evening shift per week until 8 PM . This schedule ensures a consistent routine and a healthy ...

Financial Aid Advisor

Pikesville, MD · On-site

$40K - $44K/yr

Financial Aid Position Summary The Financial Aid Advisor is responsible for providing direct service to students and their families in regard to the financial aid process and advises them in all ...

Financial Aid Advisor

Cambridge, MA · Hybrid

$50K - $58K/yr

Job Summary The Financial Aid Advisor plays a key student-facing role in supporting the daily operations of the Financial Aid Office. This position ensures the effective delivery of financial aid ...

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Financial Aid Advisor information

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How much do financial aid advisor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for financial aid advisor in the United States is $22.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Financial Aid Advisors face when assisting students, and how can they effectively address them?

Financial Aid Advisors often encounter challenges such as navigating complex federal, state, and institutional regulations, and helping students understand their eligibility and options. Advisors must also manage high volumes of inquiries, especially during peak application periods, while maintaining accuracy and compassion. Success in this role depends on strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to explain complicated financial concepts in an accessible way. Advisors frequently collaborate with admissions, bursar, and registrar offices to provide comprehensive support to students.

Is being a financial aid advisor stressful?

Being a financial aid advisor can be stressful due to the need to manage complex student financial information, meet deadlines, and handle sensitive situations. The role often requires strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work under pressure, especially during peak application periods. However, workload and stress levels can vary depending on the institution and individual experience.

What Does a Financial Aid Advisor Do?

A financial aid advisor helps college and graduate students pay for their education. The advisor’s main duties are to assess a student’s financial situation by performing different types of analysis, such as need analysis, and developing an aid package that will help the student pay for school. You also certify federal aid packages and student loans, meet with the students and their families to discuss the details of the package, and provide students advice and assistance whenever they are having issues with their school finances.

Can financial advisors make $500,000 a year?

Financial advisors can earn $500,000 or more annually, but such high earnings typically require extensive experience, a large client base, and specialization in high-net-worth individuals. Most advisors earn a median salary significantly lower, with top earners often supplementing income through commissions, bonuses, or managing large portfolios.

Is $100,000 enough to work with a financial aid advisor?

A financial aid advisor typically helps students and families navigate financial aid options; the amount of money involved depends on the specific financial situation and educational costs. Having $100,000 may cover significant expenses or aid planning, but the advisor's role is to optimize financial strategies rather than determine if a certain amount is sufficient. Skills in financial planning and understanding aid programs are essential for effective advising.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Financial Aid Advisor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Financial Aid Advisor, you need a solid understanding of financial aid regulations, counseling practices, and a bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with financial aid management systems like Banner or PowerFAIDS, as well as federal and state aid application processes, is crucial. Strong interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and the ability to handle confidential information with discretion set outstanding advisors apart. These skills ensure students receive accurate guidance, support compliance, and foster trust in navigating complex financial aid processes.

Is 200,000 enough to work with a financial aid advisor?

A financial aid advisor typically helps students and families navigate financial aid options; the amount of $200,000 is generally sufficient to cover education costs or to invest in financial planning services. The adequacy depends on individual financial needs and the scope of services required, but for most educational funding or planning purposes, this amount is considered substantial. Skills in budgeting and understanding financial products can enhance the effectiveness of financial aid advising.

What does a Financial Aid Advisor do?

A 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 provide guidance on completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), explain eligibility criteria, and advise on the best financial aid options available. Additionally, Financial Aid Advisors answer questions about tuition payment plans, help resolve issues with aid disbursement, and ensure students comply with financial aid regulations.

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

AspectFinancial Aid AdvisorFinancial Aid Counselor
Required CredentialsTypically a bachelor's degree; knowledge of financial aid policiesSimilar; often requires a bachelor's degree and familiarity with financial aid regulations
Work EnvironmentEducational institutions, student services officesEducational institutions, student support services
Employer & Industry UsageColleges and universitiesColleges and universities
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Financial Aid Advisors and Financial Aid Counselors often perform similar roles within educational institutions, helping students navigate financial aid options. While titles may vary, both roles typically require comparable credentials and work in similar environments. The main difference lies in terminology used by institutions, but their responsibilities and qualifications largely overlap.

How do I become a financial aid advisor?

To become a financial aid advisor, you typically need a bachelor's degree in education, finance, or a related field. Relevant skills include knowledge of financial aid programs, strong communication, and customer service abilities; some positions may require certification such as the NASFAA Credential or state-specific licenses.
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What states have the most Financial Aid Advisor jobs? States with the most job openings for Financial Aid Advisor jobs include:
Financial Aid Advisor

Financial Aid Advisor

Sacramento Ultrasound Institute

Sacramento, CA • On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Full-time

Posted 28 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.