Student Financial Services Counselor Prospective Students

Purpose

Counsel prospective and first-year transfer students throughout the recruitment cycle regarding the student financial aid program and application process. Ensure understanding of cost and payment options and act as liaison with the Admissions Department for recruitment-related events. Ensure compliance with federal, state, and university regulations. This is an entry-level position that requires strong communication and customer service skills.

Primarily serve prospective students and their families by providing guidance and support throughout the financial aid process, while also assisting current students and families as needed.

Counsel prospective and current students and families concerning the costs of college and the programs available to help meet those costs.

Advise on federal, state, and university application processes and financial aid requirements.

Explain and interpret student loan options, applications, and repayment requirements.

Verify accuracy and completeness of financial aid applications. Determine student eligibility for federal and state financial aid programs.

Award federal and state aid, strictly adhering to the respective regulations and guidelines.

Serve as a liaison with the Admissions Department and act as the primary Student Financial Services representative at admissions and recruitment events, including setting up informational tables, participating on panels, and presenting financial aid information to groups of prospective students and families.

Maintain accurate records in computerized data systems and generate internal reports as needed using system report writer, spreadsheets, and word processing.

Monitor student accounts receivable, assist students in setting up payment plans, assess late charges, and communicate with students regarding past due balances.

Perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge of principles of personal service, of principles and methods for promoting services, including marketing strategy and tactics.

Skill in conveying information effectively; actively looking for ways to help people; using logic and reasoning to solve problems; identifying complex problems; developing and evaluating options and implementing solutions.

Ability to use personal computer, including working knowledge of applications such as word processing, spreadsheets, and database systems.

Ability to understand and explain complex policies and procedures in clear, easy-to-understand terms.

Bachelor's degree; experience in a college financial aid office may be allowed to substitute for required degree.

Prefer candidates with experience in a college financial aid office with significant student contact.

Must be a member of a local evangelical Christian church.

* Evangelical is a broad term referring to a segment within Christianity which maintains the authority of the Bible and the belief in salvation by faith in Jesus alone.