As of May 01, 2026, the average salary for a Student Advisor in the United States is $48,090 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $23.
However, a Student Advisor's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Student Advisor's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Student Advisor's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Student Advisor | 0-2 years | $48,031 |
| College/University Student Counselor | 10+ years | $61,144 |
| College Academic Advising Director | 10+ years | $76,293 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Student Advisors. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Understanding how a Student Advisor's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on May 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Student Advisor, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| College/University Student Career Counselor | $50,500 | 5% |
| College/University Student Counselor | $61,200 | 27% |
| Exchange Student Programs Advisor | $48,800 | 1% |
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Advisors typically receive compensation through flat fees or commissions. A fee-only financial advisor earns a set salary for their services, rather than commissions on products. For Student Advisors, salaries range from $53,390 to $67,290, with a mid-salary of $60,590, reflecting the value of their expertise and support in guiding students.
The estimated total pay range for a Student Advisor at UCLA is approximately $53,390 to $67,290 annually. The average base salary is around $60,590 per year. This figure may vary based on experience and additional responsibilities, but it provides a solid overview of the compensation for this role.
Academic Advisors at Stanford University earn between $53,390 and $67,290 annually, with a median salary of $60,590. This compensation reflects the competitive nature of the role and is aligned with industry standards for similar positions.
In some cases, a teaching license may be required to become a college advisor, and many positions also necessitate a counseling license from your state. If licensing is needed, The National Board for Certified Counselors provides a credential test to assist you. Salaries for student advisors typically range from $53,390 to $67,290, with a median salary of $60,590.
Although student advisors and student counselors may use similar processes, student advisors focus on helping students develop skills for academic success, such as information-seeking and analytical abilities. They guide students in meeting institutional expectations for graduation. The salary for a student advisor ranges from $53,390 to $67,290, with a mid-salary of $60,590.
Academic Advisors in the US earn between $53,390 and $67,290 annually, with a median salary of approximately $60,590. These figures reflect the salary range based on collected data, providing a clear picture of compensation in this field.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)
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