Financial Aid Advisor - Verification (PT)

Reporting to the Financial Aid Manager, this position is responsible for reviewing and processing financial aid verification cases, evaluating supporting documentation, identifying discrepancies, and assisting with the resolution of routine eligibility requirements in accordance with federal, state, and institutional regulations.

The position supports institutional identity verification and fraud prevention efforts by identifying potential concerns, documenting findings, and referring complex cases for further review. Additionally, this position provides customer service and individualized guidance to students and families through in-person, telephone, and electronic communications to facilitate the timely and accurate completion of the financial aid process.

Responsibilities

Review student financial aid applications and supporting documentation to determine completeness, accuracy, and compliance with federal, state, and institutional requirements. Perform verification of Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) information, including income, household composition, educational credentials, and other required eligibility information.

Identify and resolve routine conflicting information within student financial aid records and institutional systems in accordance with established procedures. Refer complex eligibility issues and cases requiring additional review to the Financial Aid Manager. Update student financial aid records in the institutional student information system and maintain accurate documentation of verification decisions.

Review verification documentation, including federal tax information, income statements, identity documentation, and other eligibility records. Conduct identity verification reviews for students flagged through institutional processes or exhibiting potential indicators of identity theft or financial aid fraud. Evaluate student records for inconsistencies involving identity, enrollment history, personal information, and financial aid eligibility.

Assist with implementation and maintenance of institutional identity verification procedures and fraud prevention protocols. Document suspected fraudulent activity and refer cases requiring additional investigation to designated Financial Aid leadership. Collaborate with Admissions, Registration and Records, and other institutional departments to resolve identity verification concerns while maintaining student confidentiality.

Run and modify reports to monitor verification caseloads, outstanding requirements, and processing progress.Assist in updating the financial aid policy and procedures handbook to reflect established verification and identity review procedures.Stay current with federal, state, and institutional requirements applicable to assigned financial aid responsibilities.

Communicate with students regarding outstanding verification requirements, documentation deficiencies, and steps necessary to complete financial aid processing. Provide individualized guidance to students navigating financial aid verification and identity confirmation requirements. Assist students in resolving verification issues through in-person appointments, telephone calls, email, and virtual services.

Conduct proactive outreach to students with incomplete verification requirements to support timely financial aid processing. Support recruitment, admission, enrollment, and retention activities through financial aid services. Additional expectations: Maintain periodic office hours at branch campuses. Attend professional workshops to remain current in the field.

Serve on institutional committees. Perform other duties as assigned by the Financial Aid Leadership team.