How much does a Financial Aid Advisor make?
Financial Aid Advisors help students understand and apply for financial aid. They work in schools, colleges, and universities. The average yearly salary for a Financial Aid Advisor is around $46,660. This means most advisors earn between $32,400 and $70,350 each year. The salary can depend on experience, education, and the type of institution they work for.
Some advisors start with lower salaries and earn more as they gain experience. For example, those with less than a year of experience might earn around $32,400. Advisors with more than ten years of experience can earn up to $70,350. This shows that with time and dedication, the salary can grow. Advisors who work in larger institutions or have advanced degrees may also earn higher salaries.
What are the highest paying cities for a Financial Aid Advisor?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $66,323
In San Francisco, professionals in financial aid assist students with navigating the complexities of college funding. Many work with top-tier institutions like the University of California, San Francisco, offering a dynamic environment.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $63,232
Seattle offers a vibrant job market for those in financial aid. Working here, you can support students at renowned schools like the University of Washington, providing essential guidance and resources.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $59,109
Los Angeles provides a diverse range of opportunities in financial aid. Here, you can help students at major universities such as UCLA, ensuring they have access to the financial support they need.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $58,041
In Washington, DC, financial aid advisors play a crucial role in helping students from various backgrounds. Working with institutions like Georgetown University, you can make a significant impact.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $57,692
San Diego offers a supportive community for financial aid professionals. You can assist students at universities like San Diego State, helping them achieve their educational goals.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $56,326
Sacramento provides a stable environment for financial aid advisors. Working with schools like California State University, Sacramento, you can help students secure the funding they need.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $55,906
Boston is home to many prestigious universities, offering great opportunities for financial aid advisors. Working with institutions like Harvard University, you can provide invaluable support to students.
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Philadelphia, PA
Average Salary: $55,344
Philadelphia offers a rich job market for financial aid professionals. Working with schools like the University of Pennsylvania, you can help students navigate the financial aspects of higher education.
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Buffalo, NY
Average Salary: $50,708
Buffalo provides a supportive community for financial aid advisors. Working with universities like the University at Buffalo, you can help students achieve their educational dreams.
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Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $50,524
Baltimore offers a vibrant job market for financial aid professionals. Working with institutions like Johns Hopkins University, you can provide essential support to students seeking higher education.
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What are the best companies a Financial Aid Advisor can work for?

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West Coast University
Average Salary: $65,795
West Coast University offers rewarding Financial Aid Advisor roles. They operate in California, Nevada, and Oregon. Their advisors help students navigate financial aid options, ensuring they can focus on their education.
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Aviation Institute of Maintenance
Average Salary: $52,265
The Aviation Institute of Maintenance provides Financial Aid Advisor positions with a competitive salary. They have locations in the United States and Canada. Advisors here assist students in understanding and applying for financial aid.
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Arizona College
Average Salary: $49,624
Arizona College offers Financial Aid Advisor jobs with a focus on supporting students. They operate in Arizona. Advisors here help students find the best financial aid options to support their education.
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Utah Valley University
Average Salary: $48,629
Utah Valley University provides Financial Aid Advisor roles with a supportive environment. They are located in Utah. Advisors here guide students through the financial aid process, ensuring they can afford their education.
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Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts
Average Salary: $48,160
Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts offers Financial Aid Advisor positions with a focus on medical education. They operate in California. Advisors here help students understand and apply for financial aid to pursue their medical careers.
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Stanbridge University
Average Salary: $48,091
Stanbridge University offers Financial Aid Advisor roles with a focus on healthcare education. They operate in New Jersey and California. Advisors here assist students in finding the best financial aid options for their education.
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Pepperdine University
Average Salary: $47,819
Pepperdine University provides Financial Aid Advisor positions with a focus on liberal arts education. They are located in California. Advisors here help students navigate financial aid options to support their academic journey.
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South University
Average Salary: $47,787
South University offers Financial Aid Advisor roles with a focus on diverse educational programs. They operate in multiple states. Advisors here assist students in understanding and applying for financial aid.
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Universal Technical Institute
Average Salary: $46,592
Universal Technical Institute provides Financial Aid Advisor positions with a focus on technical education. They operate in multiple states. Advisors here help students find the best financial aid options to support their technical education.
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Success Education Colleges
Average Salary: $45,658
Success Education Colleges offers Financial Aid Advisor roles with a focus on career education. They operate in multiple states. Advisors here assist students in understanding and applying for financial aid to support their career goals.
How to earn more as a Financial Aid Advisor?
A career as a Financial Aid Advisor can be both rewarding and lucrative. To maximize earnings, consider these key factors:
- Experience: Gaining more experience can lead to higher pay. Advisors with several years in the field often earn more than those just starting out.
- Certifications: Earning additional certifications can boost earning potential. Certifications in financial aid or related areas can make an advisor more valuable.
- Education: Higher education levels can lead to higher salaries. Advisors with advanced degrees may earn more than those with only a bachelor’s degree.
- Location: Pay can vary by region. Advisors in areas with a higher cost of living often earn more.
- Specialization: Focusing on a niche can increase earning potential. Advisors who specialize in complex financial aid areas may command higher salaries.
By focusing on these areas, a Financial Aid Advisor can work towards earning more. Continuous learning and professional development are key to advancing in this field. Staying updated with industry trends and regulations can also help in securing higher-paying positions.



