Financial Aid Counselor

Get Set for Cumberlands!

Join our team of student-focused individuals working together in order to encourage intellectual and spiritual growth, leadership and service.

Essential Job Functions

• Provide individualized counseling to students regarding financial aid options, eligibility, and application procedures.
• Assist students in understanding and navigating the financial aid process, including completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and other required documentation.
• Review and evaluate financial aid applications for accuracy and completeness.
• Address inquiries related to financial aid policies, procedures, and eligibility criteria.
• Advocate for students in resolving financial aid issues and challenges.
• Facilitate outbound communication via telephone, email, and text to ensure students are appropriately informed of missing financial documents.
• Answer phone calls and respond to emails in a professional and tactful manner.
• Stay informed about changes in federal and state financial aid regulations.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations governing financial aid programs.
• Assist with new student orientation including the ability to counsel, present and deliver presentation with financial information to prospective students and parents.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Initiative-taker with positive outlook and an interest in the success of the University
• Possess good decision-making skills and the ability to assist a student community of diverse perspectives and cultures.
• Demonstrated excellence in verbal and written communication skills.
• Must have exceptional follow-up, follow-through, and attention to detail.
• Respond to large volumes of phone, email and in-person inquiries in a timely manner.
• Ability to manage confidential information, exercise sound judgment and recognize the confidential nature of student information (FERPA)
• Results oriented with ability to manage multiple projects or tasks.
• Strong critical thinking skills with the ability to solve problems and communicate concisely while focusing on the needs of the student.

Minimum Education and Experience

• Associate degree or equivalent experience required, B.A. or B.S. preferred.
• Previous experience in financial aid counseling or related student services role is preferred.
• Knowledge of federal and state financial aid programs and regulations.
• Excellent communication and time-management abilities.
• Ability to work with diverse student populations and maintain confidentiality.
• Strong computer skills including proficiency in Microsoft Word, Outlook, and Excel with a willingness to learn University software products.
• Demonstrated organizational and time management skills including the ability to successfully priority and manage multiple tasks.

Cumberlands is different by design. Our employees exemplify our motto in the pursuit of a

"life-more-abundant."