Specialist - Financial Aid (Verification and Application)

Essential Functions and Responsibilities 

The following duties are primarily performed and are essential for this position.  Employees are expected to be able to perform each of these job duties satisfactorily to be qualified for the position.  Other duties may be required and assigned. 

• Resolve Reject ISIRs: Review and resolve Institutional Student Information Records (ISIRs) flagged with reject codes by identifying missing or incorrect data, communicating with students for required corrections, and ensuring successful FAFSA reprocessing for accurate aid determination.
• C Code Resolution: Investigate and resolve ISIRs flagged with C codes (e.g. unusual enrollment history, citizenship, defaulted loans) by collecting necessary documentation from students, working with the Department of Education as needed, and updating the student’s aid eligibility.
• Pending ISIR Transactions Review: Regularly monitor and review pending ISIR transactions for incomplete or flagged FAFSA submissions, ensuring timely follow-up and resolution of discrepancies to avoid delays in aid packaging and disbursement.
• Conduct federal verification for selected students by reviewing tax documents, verification worksheets, and other supporting materials.
• Review and process Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) appeals submitted by students who do not meet SAP requirements for continued financial aid eligibility.
• Review and process requests for dependency overrides and other professional judgment adjustments, evaluating students' unique financial and or family situations that may not be reflected on the FAFSA.
• Stay current on changes to federal, state, and institutional regulations for FAFSA processing, verification, SAP appeals, and professional judgment requests.
• Maintain accurate records of verification, SAP appeals, and professional judgment requests, ensuring compliance with institutional policies and federal guidelines.
• Provide counseling to students and families on FAFSA completion, SAP appeals, and professional judgment requests, helping them understand the financial aid process and their eligibility.
• Deliver high-quality customer service, responding promptly to inquiries and offering one-on-one assistance where needed.
• Assist in the development and revision of policies and procedures as needed to reflect changes in federal and institutional regulations.
• Participate in cross-training initiatives within the financial aid department to gain proficiency in a variety of financial aid processes, ensuring seamless support across all areas during peak times or staff absences.

Minimum Qualifications 

Education and/or Experience Requirements: 

• Associate’s degree in finance, business administration, student services, or a related field required; Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in financial aid, student services, or related administrative roles, with specific experience in FAFSA processing, verification, SAP appeals, and professional judgment preferred.
• Strong familiarity with federal financial aid regulations, including FAFSA processing, verification, SAP requirements, and professional judgment guidelines.

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Licenses, Certifications, and Other Requirements: 

• Strong knowledge of financial aid regulations, particularly related to verification, SAP appeals, and professional judgment.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail, especially in reviewing financial aid applications and supporting documentation.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to explain complex financial aid processes to students and families.
• Proficiency in financial aid management systems (e.g., Banner, Workday) and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple priorities, particularly during peak periods.

In evaluating candidates for this position, Fox Valley Technical College may consider a combination of education, training, and experience which provides the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the duties of this position.   

Work Environment  

• This position operates in a professional office environment. The role may require some evening or weekend hours during high-volume periods. Work may be completed in a hybrid environment, both in person and virtually. 

Work environment may change based upon college needs. 

Physical Requirements 

• Sitting: This role requires extended periods of sitting while performing tasks and utilizing computer systems.  
• Repetitive Motions: Capacity to perform repetitive motions, such as typing, without discomfort or injury. 
• Communication: Clear verbal and written communication skills are essential for interacting with students, employees, and stakeholders, both in-person and through electronic means.  

EOE/ADA Statement 

Fox Valley Technical College (FVTC) is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).  In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), FVTC will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer. 

Nothing in this job description limits management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.  The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed.  The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.  The job description does not constitute an employment agreement or affect the at-will nature of the employment arrangement between the employee and company and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.