OPT Financial Specialist Jobs
Financial Specialist roles cover financial analysis, reporting, budgeting, and compliance work that typically qualifies as a specialty occupation under OPT. Most positions require a degree in finance, accounting, or economics. STEM OPT extension eligibility depends on your specific degree classification, so confirm your CIP code with your DSO before applying.
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Office of Financial Aid
Responsibilities
The Office of Admissions is a unit within the Division of Enrollment Management, which is comprised of four distinct units: Office of Admissions, Office of the University Registrar, Office of Financial Aid, and Technology Operations. Enrollment Management’s integrated services provide distinctive support throughout the student's development and progression in their academic experience – from recruitment through commencement. Through collaboration, communication, and commitment, all units within Enrollment Management achieve the highest level of student-centered service to current and prospective students and families and to campus partners across the University.
Position is responsible for coordinating, analyzing, evaluating, verifying, and awarding campus-based aid with a focus on students eligible for the Pell Grant.
Interprets federal, state and university rules and regulations in relation to financial aid matters. Counsels students on financial aid topics such as the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA); individual student aid eligibility; the process and timeline for creating packages; various aid types and eligibility; and process and timeline for disbursement; and financial literacy. Conducts outreach to Pell-eligible students to identify obstacles to the timely awarding and disbursement of aid. Initiates action(s) to resolve student issues. Represents the Office of Financial Aid at special events such as Accepted Student Days, FSU Day at TSC, Aspire BEACON Program, College of Medicine Summer Institute, Orientation, and Counselor workshops. Conducts financial aid information sessions and workshops. Provides financial literacy education.
Reviews 'special circumstances' appeals. Evaluates appeals based on federal rules regarding allowable modification of government-determined dependency status, adjusted gross income, and estimated family contribution. Should an appeal be approved, updates federal financial aid (ISIR) database; overrides the FSU system-generated aid package to meet the student's eligibility; and manually disburses funds in coordination with the Office of Student Finance. Overrides standard University-established cost of attendance based on documentation of additional expenses. Communicates with students regarding appeal status.
Authorizes the processing of disbursements and audits awards of campus-based aid in accordance with the established University methodology and state and federal regulations. Audits late-arriving aid and edits student packages if an over-award would result. Research issues that the system has flagged as possible violations of federal, state, and/or University compliance rules. Takes corrective action if needed. Performs comprehensive testing of financial aid processes. Conducts regular audits of section processes as directed by the Assistant Director. Audits programs outside CBA annually as assigned by senior leadership and provides findings and recommendations to aid in quality control, compliance and improve efficiency.
Recommends policies and procedures to effectively administer financial aid related to Pell funding. Assists with coordinating student financial programs and other sections during peak times to support the goals of the Office of Financial Aid. Due to travel needs, position requires operation of a motor vehicle.
Qualifications
Bachelor's degree and two years of experience; or a high school diploma/equivalent and six years of relevant experience. (Note: a combination of post high school education and experience equal to six years.)
Must have a valid Florida or Georgia Driver's License, or the ability to obtain prior to hire.
Preferred Qualifications
- We seek enthusiastic candidates who are detail-oriented, and who work well independently as well as in a team.
- Experience using Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook or comparable software.
- Ability to prioritize and organize multiple work assignments simultaneously.
- Experience implementing integrated marketing and communications plans.
- Experience in supervising others and/or team leadership.
- Candidates should have the ability to review, analyze, formulate, and organize data and information and follow through on assignments.
- Applicants should be able to establish and maintain effective working relationships and be able to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
- Candidates with a strong sense of initiative and the demonstrated ability to manage multiple responsibilities concurrently are preferred.
- The ability to make sound judgments while working in a deadline-driven environment is essential.
University Information
One of the nation's elite research universities, Florida State University preserves, expands, and disseminates knowledge in the sciences, technology, arts, humanities, and professions, while embracing a philosophy of learning strongly rooted in the traditions of the liberal arts and critical thinking. Founded in 1851, Florida State University is the oldest continuous site of higher education in Florida. FSU is a community steeped in tradition that fosters research and encourages creativity. At FSU, there’s the excitement of being part of a vibrant academic and professional community, surrounded by people whose ideas are shaping tomorrow’s news!
Learn more about our university and campuses.
Anticipated Salary Range
The anticipated starting salary range for this position is around $44,056.80 annually, commensurate with education and experience.
FSU Total Rewards
FSU offers a robust Total Rewards package. Visit our website to learn more about our Compensation, Benefits, Wellness, Recognition, and Employee Development programs.
Use our interactive tool to calculate Total Compensation options based on potential salary, benefits and retirement contributions, earned leave, and other employment-related perks.
How To Apply
If qualified and interested in a specific job opening as advertised, apply to Florida State University at https://jobs.fsu.edu. If you are a current FSU employee, apply via myFSU > Self Service.
Applicants are required to complete the online application with all applicable information. Applications must include all work history up to ten years, and education details even if attaching a resume.
Candidates must attach resume to be considered for this position.
Considerations
This is an A&P position.
This position requires successful completion of a criminal history background check.
This position requires the ability to travel and operate a motor vehicle.
Equal Employment Opportunity
FSU is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.
Department
Office of Financial Aid
Responsibilities
The Office of Admissions is a unit within the Division of Enrollment Management, which is comprised of four distinct units: Office of Admissions, Office of the University Registrar, Office of Financial Aid, and Technology Operations. Enrollment Management’s integrated services provide distinctive support throughout the student's development and progression in their academic experience – from recruitment through commencement. Through collaboration, communication, and commitment, all units within Enrollment Management achieve the highest level of student-centered service to current and prospective students and families and to campus partners across the University.
Position is responsible for coordinating, analyzing, evaluating, verifying, and awarding campus-based aid with a focus on students eligible for the Pell Grant.
Interprets federal, state and university rules and regulations in relation to financial aid matters. Counsels students on financial aid topics such as the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA); individual student aid eligibility; the process and timeline for creating packages; various aid types and eligibility; and process and timeline for disbursement; and financial literacy. Conducts outreach to Pell-eligible students to identify obstacles to the timely awarding and disbursement of aid. Initiates action(s) to resolve student issues. Represents the Office of Financial Aid at special events such as Accepted Student Days, FSU Day at TSC, Aspire BEACON Program, College of Medicine Summer Institute, Orientation, and Counselor workshops. Conducts financial aid information sessions and workshops. Provides financial literacy education.
Reviews 'special circumstances' appeals. Evaluates appeals based on federal rules regarding allowable modification of government-determined dependency status, adjusted gross income, and estimated family contribution. Should an appeal be approved, updates federal financial aid (ISIR) database; overrides the FSU system-generated aid package to meet the student's eligibility; and manually disburses funds in coordination with the Office of Student Finance. Overrides standard University-established cost of attendance based on documentation of additional expenses. Communicates with students regarding appeal status.
Authorizes the processing of disbursements and audits awards of campus-based aid in accordance with the established University methodology and state and federal regulations. Audits late-arriving aid and edits student packages if an over-award would result. Research issues that the system has flagged as possible violations of federal, state, and/or University compliance rules. Takes corrective action if needed. Performs comprehensive testing of financial aid processes. Conducts regular audits of section processes as directed by the Assistant Director. Audits programs outside CBA annually as assigned by senior leadership and provides findings and recommendations to aid in quality control, compliance and improve efficiency.
Recommends policies and procedures to effectively administer financial aid related to Pell funding. Assists with coordinating student financial programs and other sections during peak times to support the goals of the Office of Financial Aid. Due to travel needs, position requires operation of a motor vehicle.
Qualifications
Bachelor's degree and two years of experience; or a high school diploma/equivalent and six years of relevant experience. (Note: a combination of post high school education and experience equal to six years.)
Must have a valid Florida or Georgia Driver's License, or the ability to obtain prior to hire.
Preferred Qualifications
- We seek enthusiastic candidates who are detail-oriented, and who work well independently as well as in a team.
- Experience using Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook or comparable software.
- Ability to prioritize and organize multiple work assignments simultaneously.
- Experience implementing integrated marketing and communications plans.
- Experience in supervising others and/or team leadership.
- Candidates should have the ability to review, analyze, formulate, and organize data and information and follow through on assignments.
- Applicants should be able to establish and maintain effective working relationships and be able to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
- Candidates with a strong sense of initiative and the demonstrated ability to manage multiple responsibilities concurrently are preferred.
- The ability to make sound judgments while working in a deadline-driven environment is essential.
University Information
One of the nation's elite research universities, Florida State University preserves, expands, and disseminates knowledge in the sciences, technology, arts, humanities, and professions, while embracing a philosophy of learning strongly rooted in the traditions of the liberal arts and critical thinking. Founded in 1851, Florida State University is the oldest continuous site of higher education in Florida. FSU is a community steeped in tradition that fosters research and encourages creativity. At FSU, there’s the excitement of being part of a vibrant academic and professional community, surrounded by people whose ideas are shaping tomorrow’s news!
Learn more about our university and campuses.
Anticipated Salary Range
The anticipated starting salary range for this position is around $44,056.80 annually, commensurate with education and experience.
FSU Total Rewards
FSU offers a robust Total Rewards package. Visit our website to learn more about our Compensation, Benefits, Wellness, Recognition, and Employee Development programs.
Use our interactive tool to calculate Total Compensation options based on potential salary, benefits and retirement contributions, earned leave, and other employment-related perks.
How To Apply
If qualified and interested in a specific job opening as advertised, apply to Florida State University at https://jobs.fsu.edu. If you are a current FSU employee, apply via myFSU > Self Service.
Applicants are required to complete the online application with all applicable information. Applications must include all work history up to ten years, and education details even if attaching a resume.
Candidates must attach resume to be considered for this position.
Considerations
This is an A&P position.
This position requires successful completion of a criminal history background check.
This position requires the ability to travel and operate a motor vehicle.
Equal Employment Opportunity
FSU is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.
See all 75+ OPT Financial Specialist Jobs
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as a Financial Specialist
Target employers with established visa programs
Banks, asset managers, and Fortune 500 finance teams sponsor OPT workers regularly. Search for companies with a track record of H-1B visa filings in financial analyst and specialist roles, as those employers are far more likely to extend your authorization after OPT ends.
Confirm your STEM OPT eligibility early
Finance degrees under CIP code 52.0801 and economics degrees under 45.0601 often qualify for the 24-month STEM extension. Verify your degree's CIP code with your DSO before applying, since it significantly expands the window employers have to sponsor you.
Frame your authorization timeline upfront
Hiring managers in financial services move quickly. Stating your OPT end date and STEM extension eligibility in your cover letter or recruiter screen prevents late-stage rejections and helps sponsors plan the H-1B filing calendar around your authorization window.
Prioritize roles with clear specialty occupation footing
Financial Specialist positions requiring CPA candidacy, CFA enrollment, or a specific finance degree signal stronger H-1B specialty occupation eligibility. Generalist finance roles with loose degree requirements can complicate future sponsorship, so read job descriptions carefully before applying.
Build technical skills that widen your employer pool
Proficiency in SQL, Python for financial modeling, or ERP platforms like SAP expands your candidacy into fintech and larger enterprises. These employers sponsor OPT workers more aggressively than smaller firms and are more comfortable with the authorization process.
Network within finance professional communities
CFA Society chapters, FP&A forums, and university alumni networks in finance regularly connect students with hiring managers who sponsor visas. Direct referrals into sponsoring employers reduce the time spent filtering out roles that won't support your OPT status.
Financial Specialist OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Do Financial Specialist jobs typically qualify as a specialty occupation for OPT?
Most Financial Specialist roles qualify as specialty occupations because they require at minimum a bachelor's degree in finance, accounting, economics, or a related field. The degree-to-job connection must be direct, so roles that accept any bachelor's degree regardless of field are weaker candidates for future H-1B sponsorship. Always review the job description's stated degree requirements before applying.
Can I get a STEM OPT extension as a Financial Specialist?
It depends on your degree's CIP code, not your job title. Finance degrees classified under CIP 52.0801 and quantitative economics degrees under 45.0601 are on the STEM designated degree program list, making you eligible for the 24-month extension. Accounting and general business degrees are often not eligible. Confirm your specific CIP code with your DSO before assuming you qualify.
Where can I find Financial Specialist jobs that are open to OPT candidates?
Migrate Mate is built specifically for F-1 OPT and international students, so every listing on the platform is filtered for visa sponsorship openness. Searching there saves you from applying to roles where sponsorship has already been ruled out, which is a significant time drain in a high-volume field like financial services.
How does the 90-day unemployment rule affect my Financial Specialist job search?
During your OPT authorization period, you cannot accumulate more than 90 days of unemployment. Financial services hiring cycles can run six to ten weeks from application to offer. Starting your search at least three months before graduation or your current OPT start date gives you enough runway to secure an offer without burning through your unemployment allowance.
Do I need to report a Financial Specialist job to my DSO?
Yes. Any job you work during OPT must be reported to your DSO within 10 days of starting. The position must be directly related to your degree, full time during standard OPT, and at least 20 hours per week during the STEM extension. Keep a record of your employer's name, address, and job title in your SEVP portal entry.