Financial Aid Counselor, Generalist

Responsibilities

• Provide individual financial aid counseling to current and prospective students and families regarding eligibility and processing.
• Evaluate financial aid applications, including FAFSA, scholarships, and loans, in accordance with institutional, state, and federal regulations.
• Oversee a student caseload and conduct verification of financial aid files to resolve conflicting data.
• Monitor student Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) and communicate eligibility status.
• Assist with loan processing, entrance/exit counseling, and debt management education.
• Present financial aid information during admissions and orientation events, which may require occasional travel and overnight stays.
• Maintain accurate records in the student information system and respond to inquiries via phone, email, and in-person.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree required.
• Excellent interpersonal, listening, and communication skills.
• Ability to explain complex information clearly to students and parents.
• Strong organizational skills with high attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to manage time and prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Patience and empathy when working with students from diverse backgrounds.

Preferred Qualifications

• 1–3 years of experience working in a financial aid office.
• Experience managing scholarships, grants, and student loans.
• Working knowledge of FAFSA and federal/state aid processes.
• Familiarity with Department of Education systems (e.g., COD, NSLDS, FSA Partners).
• Proficiency with Banner, Microsoft Office Suite, and financial aid management systems.
• Ability to interpret and apply federal, state, and institutional policies.

About the Company

Founded in 1925 by Saint Katharine Drexel and the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament, Xavier University of Louisiana is a Catholic and historically Black university located in New Orleans. The University's purpose is to contribute to the promotion of a more just and humane society by preparing its students to assume roles of leadership and service in a global society through a diverse learning and teaching environment.