How much does a Financial Aid Advisor make?
Financial Aid Advisors help students figure out how to pay for college. Their job is important and rewarding, and they get paid fairly well for their efforts. The average yearly salary for a Financial Aid Advisor is around $46,809. That means they earn more than many other jobs that need less education.
The salary for Financial Aid Advisors can vary based on experience, location, and the type of school. Some advisors work at colleges, while others work at high schools. Those with more experience often earn more. Advisors at private schools might earn more than those at public schools. Here is a look at the typical pay range for advisors:
- 25th percentile: $32,000
- 50th percentile: $42,447
- 75th percentile: $52,893
These numbers show that Financial Aid Advisors have good earning potential. As they gain experience, they can expect their salary to increase. This job can offer a stable income and the chance to help students achieve their dreams.
What are the highest paying cities for a Financial Aid Advisor?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $67,134
In San Francisco, professionals in the education sector play a key role in helping students manage their finances. With major institutions like Stanford University and the University of California, opportunities are plentiful. Advisors assist in navigating financial aid and scholarships.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $63,232
Seattle offers a vibrant environment for those aiding students in financial matters. The University of Washington and Seattle Central College provide avenues for advisors to make a difference. Here, advisors work closely with students to ensure they can afford their education.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $59,752
In Los Angeles, the education landscape is diverse and extensive, with opportunities at schools like UCLA and USC. Financial advisors here help students find the right financial aid packages. The city's large student population means high demand for these services.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $58,672
Working in Washington, DC offers a unique blend of education and politics. Advisors at institutions like Georgetown University help students access federal aid and scholarships. The city's focus on education creates many opportunities for those in the field.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $57,657
San Diego presents a sunny and promising environment for financial aid professionals. With campuses such as UC San Diego, advisors play a vital role in guiding students through financial aid options. The coastal city offers a balanced work-life experience.
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Philadelphia, PA
Average Salary: $55,344
Philadelphia's rich educational history provides many opportunities for financial aid advisors. Schools like the University of Pennsylvania and Temple University rely on advisors to assist students. The city's commitment to education fosters a supportive work environment.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $52,301
Sacramento is home to a growing educational sector. Advisors at California State University help students understand financial aid. The city offers a family-friendly atmosphere, making it a great place to work and live.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $51,212
Chicago's large educational institutions, such as Northwestern University, provide ample opportunities for financial aid advisors. They help students find and apply for financial aid. The city's diverse population and strong educational focus create a dynamic work environment.
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Buffalo, NY
Average Salary: $50,708
Buffalo offers a mix of urban and community-focused work. The University at Buffalo provides numerous positions for advisors. They assist students in securing the financial aid needed to pursue higher education.
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Dallas, TX
Average Salary: $50,450
In Dallas, financial aid advisors work in a growing and dynamic educational sector. Institutions like Southern Methodist University and the University of Texas at Dallas offer many opportunities. Advisors here focus on helping students navigate financial aid and scholarships.
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What are the best companies a Financial Aid Advisor can work for?

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Texas A&M University
Average Salary: $68,498
Texas A&M University offers rewarding Financial Aid Advisor positions. They provide financial assistance to students across multiple campuses in Texas. This role helps students navigate the complexities of financial aid.
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West Coast University
Average Salary: $65,987
West Coast University is renowned for its healthcare education programs. Financial Aid Advisors here assist students in obtaining the necessary funds to pursue their degrees. The university operates in California and Arizona.
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Aviation Institute of Maintenance
Average Salary: $51,907
The Aviation Institute of Maintenance specializes in aviation and aerospace training. Financial Aid Advisors work with students to secure financial aid for their training programs. Locations include Arizona, California, and Nevada.
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Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts
Average Salary: $50,386
Gurnick Academy offers medical training programs. Financial Aid Advisors help students with financial planning and aid applications. The academy is located in California.
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Arizona College
Average Salary: $49,550
Arizona College provides education in healthcare and business fields. Financial Aid Advisors here assist students with financial aid options. The college operates in Arizona.
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Pepperdine University
Average Salary: $47,819
Pepperdine University offers a range of academic programs. Financial Aid Advisors here help students understand and apply for financial aid. The university is located in California.
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Concorde Career Colleges
Average Salary: $47,635
Concorde Career Colleges offer education in various career fields. Financial Aid Advisors assist students in accessing financial aid. The colleges are located in multiple states.
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South University
Average Salary: $46,817
South University provides health sciences and other professional education. Financial Aid Advisors here work with students to secure financial aid. Locations include Georgia, Florida, and South Carolina.
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Universal Technical Institute
Average Salary: $46,631
Universal Technical Institute offers automotive and diesel training. Financial Aid Advisors here support students with their financial aid needs. The institute operates nationwide.
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Success Education Colleges
Average Salary: $46,413
Success Education Colleges provide technical training in various fields. Financial Aid Advisors assist students in obtaining financial aid. Locations include California and Nevada.
How to earn more as a Financial Aid Advisor?
Enhancing your earning potential as a Financial Aid Advisor involves several key strategies. Success in this field often hinges on specific actions that can boost both your skills and your salary.
A Financial Aid Advisor can increase earnings by pursuing further education and certifications, gaining experience in diverse educational settings, expanding their knowledge of financial aid programs, improving communication and customer service skills, and leveraging technology to streamline processes. Each of these steps plays a crucial role in advancing your career and financial rewards.
Here are some effective ways to earn more:
- Pursue Advanced Education and Certifications: Obtaining additional degrees or certifications in financial aid or related fields can enhance your qualifications and make you more competitive for higher-paying positions.
- Gain Experience in Various Educational Settings: Working in different types of schools, such as community colleges, universities, and private institutions, can provide a broader understanding of financial aid processes and increase your marketability.
- Expand Knowledge of Financial Aid Programs: Staying updated with changes in federal and state financial aid policies can help you provide better advice to students and improve your job performance.
- Improve Communication and Customer Service Skills: Being able to effectively communicate with students, parents, and colleagues can lead to better job satisfaction and opportunities for advancement.
- Leverage Technology to Streamline Processes: Utilizing software and tools to manage financial aid applications and documentation can increase efficiency and open up higher-level positions.



