Financial Aid Support Specialist

Financial Aid Support Specialist

Position Summary:

The Financial Aid Support Specialist serves as the first point of contact for students and families seeking assistance with financial aid. This entry-level role plays a key part in delivering excellent customer service by answering phones, responding to emails, assisting students with the FAFSA and other financial aid processes, and providing support to the Financial Aid Office staff.

Key Responsibilities:

• Greet and assist students and visitors in-person, by phone, and via email with professionalism and warmth.
• Answer general questions related to the FAFSA, verification, financial aid eligibility, and institutional aid processes.
• The main point of contact for Accelerated Programs.
• Guide students and families through completing financial aid applications and documentation.
• Help students access and navigate the Cleary student portal and federal student aid systems.
• Schedule appointments for students with financial aid advisors as needed.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation of student interactions.
• Provide administrative support, including scanning, filing, and data entry.
• Collaborate with team members to ensure timely communication and student follow-up.
• Stay informed of financial aid policies, federal/state regulations, and institutional procedures.

Minimum Qualifications 

• Associate degree from accredited college, university or equivalent experience 

• Relevant experience in a customer services and customer outreach environment 

• Strong experience in customer service, community outreach, and data processing 

• Strong working knowledge of Microsoft suite of applications 

• Demonstrated initiative, independent judgment, diplomacy, and service-oriented   attitude.

• Commitment to improving skills and acquiring new technical knowledge in financial aid. 

• Must be comfortable working in a fast-paced environment and multi-tasking. 

• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to interact successfully with others. 

• Must possess a valid driver’s license and be able to travel locally when necessary. 

• Flexible schedule with some evening and weekend work may be required. 

Preferred Qualifications 

• Bachelor’s degree  

• Experience with Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software (Jenzebar, Sonis, Salesforce, etc.) 

• Ability to work individually and in a team setting, multi-task and effectively prioritize responsibilities, and retain a professional and engaging demeanor. 

• Understanding of industries, organizational functions, and business career options preferred  

Working Conditions:

• On-site position at the Cleary University campus.
• Standard office hours with occasional evening or weekend events (e.g., FAFSA nights or orientation).