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Student Financial Aid Jobs (NOW HIRING)

This position will advise students about financial aid eligibility, application procedures, available financial aid programs; educational costs; and financial management strategies including loans ...

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Student Financial Aid information

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$18K

$60.3K

$130.5K

How much do student financial aid jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for student financial aid in the United States is $60,262.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,500.00 and $65,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is student financial aid?

Student financial aid refers to funding that helps students pay for their education expenses, such as tuition, fees, books, and living costs. Financial aid can come in the form of grants, scholarships, work-study programs, and loans, and is typically provided by federal or state governments, colleges, and private organizations. The goal of financial aid is to make higher education accessible and affordable for students from all backgrounds.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals in student financial aid, and how can they be managed effectively?

Professionals in Student Financial Aid often face challenges such as navigating complex federal and institutional regulations, handling high volumes of student inquiries during peak periods, and addressing sensitive financial situations with empathy and accuracy. Effective time management, ongoing professional development, and strong communication skills are essential for success in this role. Staying current with policy changes, utilizing technology for workflow efficiency, and collaborating closely with admissions and academic advisors can also help manage these demands while ensuring students receive the support they need.

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

To thrive as a Student Financial Aid Officer, you need a solid understanding of federal and state financial aid regulations, attention to detail, and typically a bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with financial aid management systems like Banner or PeopleSoft and knowledge of FAFSA processing are crucial. Strong interpersonal skills, problem-solving abilities, and clear communication help in guiding students and resolving complex financial situations. These skills ensure accurate aid distribution, regulatory compliance, and effective support for students navigating financial challenges.

What is the difference between Student Financial Aid vs Student Loan Officer?

AspectStudent Financial AidStudent Loan Officer
CredentialsMay require financial aid certifications or knowledge of federal aid programsOften requires financial or loan processing certifications
Work EnvironmentEducational institutions, financial aid officesBanks, credit unions, or financial institutions
Employer & IndustryColleges, universities, government agenciesFinancial institutions, loan companies
Primary FocusAssisting students in applying for and understanding financial aid optionsAssessing, processing, and managing student loan applications

While both roles involve working with students and financial processes, Student Financial Aid professionals focus on helping students access various aid programs, whereas Student Loan Officers specialize in managing and processing student loans. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the education finance industry.

More about Student Financial Aid jobs

What cities are hiring for Student Financial Aid jobs?

Cities with the most Student Financial Aid job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Student Financial Aid jobs?

The most popular types of Student Financial Aid jobs are:

What states have the most Student Financial Aid jobs?

States with the most job openings for Student Financial Aid jobs include:

Infographic showing various Student Financial Aid job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $60,262 per year, or $29 per hour.

Student Financial Aid Administrator - Office of Student Financial Aid

Urbana, IL โ€ข On-site

University of Illinois
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schoolsย โ€ขย 5 - 10K employees

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Duties & Responsibilities

Customer Service/Outreach Training

  • Provide advice and counsel to clients of the Office of Student Financial Aid, either in-person, by telephone or through written correspondence (including e-mail).
  • Be knowledgeable of all student financial aid programs and services.
  • Serve as liaison with University offices and other related financial aid agencies.
  • Utilize available resources and provide presentations to large groups as well as work one-on-one with students and their families.
  • Represent OSFA on institutional, state and federal committees and at professional conferences and workshops.
  • Develop a thorough knowledge of legislation governing financial aid programs and federal needs analysis methodology.
  • Exercise professional judgment when financial aid program guidelines do not seem to adequately address a specific situation.

Program Administration

  • Coordinate the staff efforts required to carry out program responsibilities and educate/train other office staff regarding the programs for which they are responsible.
  • Responsible for the administration of programs and execution of procedures specified on the Office of Student Financial Aid Program Responsibilities list.
  • Responsible for:
    student awarding
    disbursement and reconciliation of federal, state and institutional financial aid
    accounting and funds management
    maintenance of student record
    application in-take and processing
    verification of student records
    scholarship administration

University of Illinois logo

About University of Illinois

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Illinois, located in Urbana, Illinois, US, is a prominent entity in the higher education sector. Operating its official functions through its website uillinois.edu, the institution provides a range of educational programs and services. The University was founded in 1867 and has since grown dramatically both in size and reputation. Its core values are embodied in its mission to enhance the lives of its students and citizens in the state, nation, and world through leadership in learning, discovery, engagement, and economic development. The university boasts several notable achievements including producing Nobel laureates and Pulitzer prize winners. It is renowned for its research programs and is known for significant advancements across various fields including engineering, science, and humanities.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Urbana, IL, US

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