Financial Aid Director

Position Summary:

The Director of Financial Aid oversees the administration of student financial aid programs and ensures compliance with federal, state, and institutional requirements. This role manages financial aid operations, supports students through the aid process, and works across the institution to promote access, affordability, retention, and student success.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Administer federal, state, institutional, and external financial aid programs, including grants, loans, and scholarships.

Oversee FAFSA/ISIR processing, verification as applicable, Return of Title IV calculations, satisfactory academic progress, awarding, disbursement, reconciliation, and loan certification.

Manage graduate federal aid programs, including Direct Unsubsidized and Grad PLUS loans.

Ensure compliance with Title IV and other applicable regulations, including NSLDS, COD, audits, program reviews, reporting, and required operational adjustments.

Develop and maintain financial aid policies, procedures, records, communications, and documentation.

Counsel prospective and current students regarding financial aid opportunities, eligibility, borrowing, enrollment changes, and financial literacy.

Handle escalated student cases, including special circumstances, professional judgment reviews, and students experiencing financial hardship.

Collaborate with Admissions, Student Accounts, the Registrar, Academic Affairs, and academic programs on enrollment, billing, aid eligibility, and student support.

Advise on institutional scholarship awards and participate in planning related to enrollment, retention, affordability, and student success.

Provide training and guidance to faculty and staff regarding financial aid policies and processes.

Qualifications

Required:

Bachelor’s degree
At least five years of progressively responsible financial aid experience
Knowledge of federal and state financial aid regulations and Title IV programs
Experience with student information and financial aid systems
Strong organizational, analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills

Preferred:

Master’s degree
Experience in higher education administration or enrollment management
Familiarity with online and graduate education environments
Participation in professional financial aid associations