Assistant Director of Financial Aid

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.

• Manages the collection, analysis, and reporting of data for financial aid and fellowship programs, supporting institutional planning, compliance, and external reporting requirements.

Counseling, Communication, and Leadership

• Counsels prospective and current students on financial planning and financial assistance, including application process, fellowship sources, loans and employment.

• Works extensively with assigned academic departments across Harvard University to coordinate aid for students and advises departments on financial aid policy.

• Coordinates and communicates with other Harvard Griffin GSAS offices to support student success and ensure the effective delivery of financial aid, fellowship, and student services programs. 

• Collaborates with University partners responsible for student records, billing, enrollment, and funding programs to ensure the effective delivery of financial aid

• Represents Harvard Griffin GSAS at national and state level professional conferences and university-wide financial forums.

• Provides direct and/or indirect supervision, training, and guidance to staff

Working Conditions:

• This is a hybrid position and on-campus location is Cambridge, MA

• Travel may be required

• May be required to work nights and weekends

Physical Requirements:

• Sitting using near vision use for reading and computer use for extended periods of time

• Lifting (approximately 20 to 30 pounds), bending, and other physical exertion