The Student Loan Counselor needs to understand the basic range of potential student loan subjects and how to track down pertinent information. Also needs to understand what applies to a particular client’s situation, synthesizing the information and communicating suggestions and steps in a logical, understandable manner. Counseling hours and days can be flexible, although ideally somewhat consistent.
Primary activities:
• One-on-one client counseling by phone and email - Discuss questions, concerns, and priorities; assess which rules apply to the client, and which plans and programs are available to them; review loan details and repayment history (the client downloads and provides this information); address questions and discuss the trade-offs of various options; e-mail summary and next steps including attachments and/or links to additional resources; Coordinate with housing, budget and credit counselors for any additional services.
• Put together topic overviews for clients
• Create an occasional article or presentation (generally for UIOWA)
• Monitor Department of Education and Administration proposals, program announcements, and implemented changes
Primary Subjects – Federal Student Loans:
• Repayment Plans including Income-Driven Repayment (IDR)
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
• Loan Consolidation
• Forbearance, Deferral, Economic Hardship
• Delinquency and Default
• Death and Disability Discharges
• Closed School and Borrower Defense to Repayment
