Bursar Job Description

What is the job description of a Bursar? What are the duties and responsibilities of a Bursar? What does a Bursar do?

Job description of a Bursar

A Bursar is an official in charge of funds, particularly in a university, college, school, or monastery. A Bursar manages and oversees operations of student, faculty, and staff accounts. They provide leadership and direction for tuition and fee structure, financial aid resources, billing and receivables, petty cash, and payments. Being a Bursar makes one the custodian of institutional funds.

This Bursar job description example includes the list of most important Bursar duties and responsibilities as shown below. It can be modified to fit the specific Bursar profile you're trying to fill as a recruiter or job seeker.

Bursar Duties and Responsibilities

Bursar job description should contain a variety of functions and roles including:

  • Oversee day-to-day cash management
  • Manage accounts payable and receivable
  • Keep organized books of tuition fees and files of receipts
  • Prepare expense reports on a regular basis
  • Manage annual budget
  • Conduct cost and productivity analyses
  • Review employment contracts and terms of services
  • Design and update financial procedures
  • Liaise with local authorities and school governors
  • Report to the school general on performance and investment/funding opportunities

Bursar Requirements / Skills / Qualifications

Bursar job description should include these common skills and qualifications:

  • B.Sc degree in Accounting, Business Management or relevant degree
  • Certification in School Administration a plus
  • Proven work experience as a Bursar
  • Computer literacy (MS Excel in particular)
  • Strong financial management skills
  • Knowledge of accounting procedures and best practices
  • Familiarity with budget preparation and cash flow management
  • Solid time management skills with an ability to prioritize work
  • Excellent analytical skills and experience creating reports and presentations

As a hiring manager, recruiting an ideal Bursar starts with crafting a good job description. Use this Bursar job description template to save yourself time and help you attract the most qualified candidates. Feel free to revise it to meet your specific needs.

Job seekers interviewing for the role of a Bursar may also reference it in preparation for the interview.