Office of Human Resource Management

The Financial Aid Counselor serves as a key member of the South Carolina State University Office of Financial Aid and is responsible for assisting students and families with understanding and navigating the financial aid process.

The counselor provides accurate and timely information regarding federal, state, institutional, and private financial aid programs while supporting the University's commitment to student access, enrollment, retention, and degree completion.

This position requires exceptional customer service, attention to detail, confidentiality, and the ability to interpret and apply financial aid regulations and University policies.

Duties and Responsibilities: 

• Counsel prospective and currently enrolled students and their families regarding financial aid eligibility, application requirements, awards, and available funding options.
• Assist students with completing and resolving issues related to the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
• Review student financial aid files to determine eligibility for federal, state, institutional, and other financial assistance.
• Review documentation and complete verification and other required eligibility processes.
• Assist with the awarding, adjustment, and processing of grants, scholarships, loans, and Federal Work-Study.
• Monitor student eligibility requirements, including enrollment status and Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP).
• Explain financial aid award offers, student loan requirements, cost of attendance, and remaining balances to students and families.
• Assist students with completing required financial aid documents, including entrance counseling, Master Promissory Notes, and other eligibility requirements.
• Maintain knowledge of federal and state financial aid regulations and South Carolina State Uni• Maintain accurate student records and document communications and actions appropriately within university systems.
• Provide timely responses to student and parent inquiries by telephone, email, virtual communication, and in-person counseling.
• Participate in financial aid presentations, orientations, recruitment programs, FAFSA workshops, open houses, and other University events.
• Collaborate with Admissions and Recruitment, Student Accounts, Registrar, Academic Affairs, Housing, and other campus offices to resolve student enrollment concerns.
• Protect confidential student information and comply with FERPA and applicable federal, state, and University requirements.

Minimum Requirements: 

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous experience in financial aid, higher education, student services, enrollment management, or a related field.
• Knowledge of federal and South Carolina student financial aid programs.