Assistant Director of Financial Aid

Company Description

By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.

Why join the Harvard Faculty of Arts and Sciences?

The Faculty of Arts and Sciences (FAS) is the historic heart of Harvard University. It is the home of Harvard’s undergraduate program (Harvard College, founded in 1636) as well as all of Harvard’s Ph.D. programs (the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, founded in 1872), Harvard Athletics and the Division of Continuing Education. The 40 academic departments and 30+ centers of the FAS support a community unparalleled in its academic excellence across the broadest range of liberal arts and sciences disciplines. Together, the FAS seeks to foster an environment of ambition, curiosity and shared commitment to knowledge and truth that elicits excellence from all members of our community and prepares the next generation of leaders through a transformative educational experience.

Job Description

The Assistant Director of Financial Aid independently performs financial aid activities including evaluating and analyzing financial information submitted by applicants, counseling students on financial matters, and preparing financial aid reporting and analysis in accordance with established federal and University standards and guidelines.

Reporting to the Associate Director of Financial Aid, this position is responsible for overseeing assigned programs at Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS).

Duties include, but are not limited to, the following:

Administer Financial Aid

• Evaluates and analyzes financial information submitted by applicants, ensuring data is accurate and compliant, and processes awards.
• Prepares aid packages and award notifications; administers both Harvard and external grant/fellowship programs; allocates Harvard restricted funds and donor-supported awards in accordance with program guidelines; and supports the administration of federal financial aid programs, including eligibility determination.
• Ensures compliance with federal, state and institutional financial aid requirements and auditing standards.
• Develops and evaluates financial aid materials, website content, forms, etc.
• Assists in planning and implementing financial aid strategy to attract applicants.
• Interprets and advises students, applicants, and colleagues on financial aid policies, procedures, and funding regulations; contributes to the development and implementation of policy and process improvements.