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Student Financial Planner Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Student Student Financial Services Counselor provides a sophisticated understanding of ... Maintain a current working knowledge of the financial planning processes of financial aid, billing ...

Student Financial Assistance Advisor

Cleveland, OH · On-site

$19.75 - $25.25/hr

Interviews and advises students in regard to educational financial planning; assists the Director with educational grants and loan programs, student employment and scholarship programs * Assists ...

Student Financial Assistance Advisor

Westlake, OH · On-site

$18.75 - $24/hr

Interviews and advises students in regard to educational financial planning; assists the Director with educational grants and loan programs, student employment and scholarship programs * Assists ...

While this position supports the financial planning process through data entry and preparation, it ... Student loan assistance * Pet insurance * Base salary of up to $100,000 plus discretionary bonus ...

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Student Financial Planner information

See salary details

$50.5K

$96.7K

$139.5K

How much do student financial planner jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for student financial planner in the United States is $96,681.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,000.00 and $102,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Student Financial Planner do?

A Student Financial Planner helps students and their families understand and manage the costs of education. They provide guidance on applying for financial aid, scholarships, and loans, and can assist in creating a budget to cover tuition and living expenses. Their goal is to help students make informed financial decisions throughout their academic journey, ensuring they have the resources needed to complete their education. They may also offer advice on loan repayment options and financial literacy.

What are some common challenges Student Financial Planners face when helping students navigate financial aid options?

Student Financial Planners often encounter the challenge of explaining complex financial aid programs and eligibility requirements to students and their families, many of whom may be unfamiliar with the process. They must stay current with frequently changing federal and institutional policies, while also managing a high volume of inquiries during peak enrollment periods. Effective communication, patience, and strong organizational skills are essential, as planners collaborate with admissions, registrar, and bursar offices to ensure students receive accurate and timely information.

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

To thrive as a Student Financial Planner, you need a solid understanding of financial aid regulations, student loan programs, and institutional policies, typically supported by a degree in finance, business, or related fields. Familiarity with financial aid management systems (such as Banner or PowerFAIDS), FAFSA processing, and relevant compliance certifications is essential. Strong communication, problem-solving, and attention to detail are standout soft skills for guiding students and families through complex financial processes. These competencies ensure students receive accurate, timely financial guidance and support, promoting access and retention in educational programs.

What is the difference between Student Financial Planner vs Financial Advisor?

AspectStudent Financial PlannerFinancial Advisor
CredentialsCertifications like CFP, ChFC, or specialized student financial planning coursesCFP, CFA, or other financial planning certifications
Work EnvironmentEducational institutions, student-focused financial services, or independent advising for studentsBanks, investment firms, independent practices serving a broad client base
Employer & IndustryEducational institutions, student loan companies, or financial planning firms with a focus on studentsFinancial services industry, serving clients of all ages and financial goals

While both roles involve financial planning and require similar certifications, a Student Financial Planner specializes in advising students on loans, scholarships, and budgeting within educational settings. A Financial Advisor serves a broader client base, providing investment, retirement, and wealth management advice. The key difference lies in their target clients and work environments, with Student Financial Planners focusing specifically on student financial needs.

More about Student Financial Planner jobs
What job categories do people searching Student Financial Planner jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Student Financial Planner jobs are:
Infographic showing various Student Financial Planner job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 62% Full Time, 31% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,681 per year, or $46.5 per hour.
Student Financial Planning Counselor (Graduate)

Student Financial Planning Counselor (Graduate)

High Point University

High Point, NC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


High Point University rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

240th of 534 rated colleges and universities


Job description

The Student Financial Planning Graduate Counselor plays a vital role in empowering students to achieve their educational goals at High Point University. As a key member of the Student Financial Planning team, this individual helps students and families navigate the financial aid process with care, clarity, and integrity. By providing personalized guidance and administering financial assistance programs with accuracy and compassion, the Counselor directly supports the University's mission to provide an extraordinary education and to meet enrollment and retention goals. This role blends service, strategy, and student advocacy, ensuring that every graduate student has the opportunity to pursue excellence at High Point University.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Education:
  • Bachelor's degree in business, human service, or counseling

Experience and Training:
  • Minimum 2 years in student financial aid environment with direct experience involving Federal and state awarding

Knowledge, Skills, Ability:
  • Knowledge of federal and state financial aid regulations and institutional policies
  • Must possess the ability to understand complex federal and state regulated programs as well as adhere to institutional strategic procedures
  • The ability to work independently while being a part of a team that stresses accuracy, integrity, and efficiency is vital
  • Knowledge of the various types of financial aid available
  • Ability to analyze and interpret financial information in a wide variety of situations
  • Ability to exercise independent thought and judgment in difficult and/or complex situations with little to no supervision and under tight deadlines.
  • Knowledge of integrated computer systems and web-based technology
  • Effective oral and written communication skills
  • Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with internal and external customers
  • Ability to appropriately handle highly sensitive, confidential family financial information

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
  • Counsels' students and parents on all financial aid matters
  • Awards federal, state, private and institutional loans, grants, and scholarships according to federal and state regulations and institutional policies
  • Analyzes each family situation, determine the financial aid options available and explains options to the family
  • Manages the application process from start to finish for his or her assigned group of students
  • Manages the financial aid process and interactions with designated population of prospective students and families to positively impact students' decisions to attend the University
  • Examines all application materials for accuracy and completeness and performs federal verification according to federal regulations
  • Handles overall financial aid awarding functions including, but not limited to, import and evaluation of FAFSA information, packaging, loan certification and origination, federal verification and refund calculations
  • Conducts research as necessary to respond to inquiries and resolve problems that may arise during the financial aid process
  • Determines award adjustments in appropriate situations and documents all such decisions in students' files
  • Determines appropriate corrective actions independently within established guidelines and implements or refers for action as appropriate
  • Maintains a positive work atmosphere by acting and communicating effectively with students, students' parents, faculty, co-workers and managers.
  • Timely completion of award packages, return calls and email correspondence

ACCOUNTABILITY:
  • Maximizes student enrollment and retention through effective financial planning and counseling while awarding financial aid in accordance with federal and state regulations and institutional policies
  • Stays current on federal, state and institutional regulations and policies

TERM:
  • Full Time
  • Monday - Friday 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (some weekends for special events)

CONTACT INFORMATION:
For more information about this position, kindly contact Sandra Norris, Director of Student Financial Planning at snorris@highpoint.edu

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