How to Become a Peer Reviewer

Does this sound like you?

As someone with years of experience in financial aid, you know where to go for information and answers. You enjoy sharing your knowledge with others and have volunteered as a trainer for workshops and as a presenter for conferences. Most importantly, others consider yourself an expert in the Title IV programs, and your own financial aid office is currently in good standing with the laws and regulations as put forth by Congress and the U.S. Department of Education.

If so, then it is time to consider joining Blue Icon's peer review team for the Standards of Excellence Review Program.

As a peer reviewer, you will work as part of a team of two to four reviewers and travel across the country to institutions similar to our own. Your team will conduct one-on-one interviews, review student files and other documentation, and more. If you have the appropriate NASFAA credentials, you may also qualify to be an Assessment Leader, which allows you to conduct SOE Assessment Reviews off-site (i.e. no travel required).

What You Need to Know Before You Apply

• Peer reviewers receive a stipend for each scheduled date of a review.
• Travel, hotel, and meal expenses for on-site reviews are reimbursed in accordance with NASFAA's travel policy.
• If needed, peer reviewers may be assigned to between three and six reviews per year.
• Since reviews take place during the week, peer reviewers must take time off from work. Some weekend work may also be required.  The average on-site review is four days but may be as short as two days or as long as five. 
• Because peer reviewers sign a letter of agreement with NASFAA, it is recommended that you have permission from your institution and/or immediate supervisor to represent yourself as a financial aid expert.

Peer Reviewers Must:

• Be currently employed as a practicing financial aid administrator at a member post-secondary institution.
• Have at least eight (8) years of experience in financial aid.
• Attend peer review training via conference call and/or in-person instruction.
• Read and become familiar with the Peer Review Training Manual.
• Be up-to-date on current regulations.
• Be willing to take direction.
• Be innovative.

To be considered for the SOE Peer Review Team and other Blue Icon independent consultant opportunities, you must APPLY ONLINE and provide the requested documentation

Apply to be an Independent Consultant

Please direct questions to the SOE Program Manager at [email protected] or (202) 785-6957.