Student Finance Counselor 2

About Us: The Student Finance Counselor 2 (SFC2) primary responsibilities are to meet with students and families to discuss financial aid options for studying abroad and serve as the liaison to Pell eligible students. The SFC2 will adjust the cost of attendance (COA) and financial aid packages based on the abroad costs and the outcome of professional judgement appeals.This position advises, investigates, problem-solves, and resolves financial aid related questions and issues from current and previous students, parents, faculty, staff, collegiate units, other third parties, and the public. They efficiently manage a large volume of records, explain financial aid eligibility and disbursement of aid, as well as cost of attendance figures, differences and benefits of various aid types, and formulas related to FAFSA calculations. They must accurately compare and correct FAFSA application data based on submitted documentation in accordance with federal, State, and University regulations to meet compliance requirements.This position will provide substantial support and counseling via email, in-person contact, Zoom, and telephone to the general population of students, parents, and the University community on various financial aid issues.Appointment Details: 100% Full-Time, Civil Service. Academic Support Resources supports hybrid and flexible working arrangements. Work arrangements are determined in coordination with supervisors depending on the nature of the unit and position. The arrangement for this position will be determined upon hire between employee and supervisor.Responsibilities: Off-Campus Study Programs (25%) Counsel students in person or via Zoom to discuss funding for off-campus study programs such as Learning Abroad or National Student Exchange (NSE).Present financial aid information about off-campus study for staff, at scholarship workshops for students, college/department meetings, and for other populations as requested.Adjust student COA for study abroad programs and revise financial aid packages as required by institutional, state, and federal policies.Review and complete scholarship applications as needed.Communicate with the Financial Aid Study Abroad Coordinator on any potential issues related to a student’s study abroad aid package or student account.Serve as a contact and resource for students abroad who need assistance resolving aid issues.Federal Pell Grant (20%) Serve as a liaison to One Stop Student Services and Pell eligible students to rectify outstanding issues.Assist with reviewing and adjusting Pell and other financial aid in different packaging scenarios.Assist with rejected Pell Origination records.Professional Judgement Appeals (20%) Evaluate appeals and invoke professional judgment to determine if exceptions can be made in reevaluating a student’s financial aid record.Use professional judgment and individual discretion in both simple and complex issues throughout the entire appeal process. Consult appeal committee lead when necessary.Thoroughly investigate appeals as well as supporting documentation to make decisions; contact appropriate parties for further information when needed.Accurately counsel students on impact to their record based on the type of appeal submitted.Understand and utilize financial aid professional judgment guidelines to recalculate student eligibility for financial aid; award additional aid according to all state, federal, and University regulations.Non-Standard Financial Aid Situations (15%) Apply University, federal, and state regulations to determine financial aid eligibility for students requesting aid as second degree seeking or applying for prerequisite coursework, co-op students, and/or dependency status certification.Provide support and assistance to colleges so they understand the prerequisite process for financial aid and resolve conflicting student record information.Review discrepancies between the academic program plan and the FAFSA to determine if a student falls into a prior degree classification, correct FAFSA discrepancies and adjust aid accordingly.Advise students on eligibility requirements in any of these areas.Veteran Financial Aid Eligibility (15% ) Review and certify applicants for the MN GI Bill program.Award and reconcile MN GI Bill funds.Review and verify FAFSA responses to questions related to veteran status and active duty.Attends and participates in meetings and OSF committee work as assigned: (5%) Regularly attends scheduled meetings.Participates in unit and OSF committee activities.Updates unit colleagues with regard to new knowledge; initiates and distributes information to colleagues that may affect and enhance their work.Implement new information into job functions where appropriate.Identify and attend training sessions needed to ensure knowledgeable and accurate job performance.Provides input in a positive manner.*The employer reserves the right to change or add duties to this position as long as the changes and/or additions are consistent with the job classification.What you'll need:BA/BS degree and two years of progressively responsible experience in counseling, financial aid, and/or student services. An equivalent combination of relevant education and related professional work experience totaling six years may be substituted in place of a degree.Preferred Qualifications: Proven effective communication skills with a variety of audiences (individual and large group), strong customer service focus, time management skills, and ability to meet deadlines.Knowledge of University, state, and federal financial aid regulations and procedures.Technology experience with PeopleSoft Campus Solutions, Google/Microsoft suite (specifically spreadsheets), and CRM platforms.Ability to analyze situations and adopt an effective course of action.For the full job description, click "Apply" to visit the UMN career site: https://hr.myu.umn.edu/jobs/ext/373719What we provide (Civil Service/Labor Rep):MN State Retirement System (MSRS) pension plan - tax-deferred.Thirteen paid vacation days per year (starting accrual rate), in addition to 13 paid sick days and 11 paid holidays.Tuition reimbursement opportunities cover 75% - 100% of eligible tuition.Excellent and affordable health care benefits.Wellbeing Program (reduction in annual premiums).Yearly merit increase program.Many professional development opportunities.Click here for more information: https://hr.umn.edu/Jobs/Applicant-Center/About-Working-U/Benefits-Working-U-M