Don't Be a Beauty School Dropout: Learn About Funding Your Cosmetology Education
So, you've decided to enroll in beauty school. You love being around others, and want to help people feel great about themselves through the improved self-image that cosmetology services can facilitate. You have an eye for beauty and feel ready to master advanced techniques in barbering, nail design, skin care, and more. Perhaps you've even begun the application process for one or two of today's top beauty schools. Congratulations on choosing to pursue beauty education! With your natural skills and a formal education, you can enjoy a range of exciting career opportunities in the cosmetology field. There's just one problem, beauty school doesn't come cheap.
Paying for Beauty School
Cosmetology school can be expensive. Depending on where you live, comprehensive beauty education can cost anywhere from $6,500 (for schools in rural areas) to $10,000 (for top beauty schools in metropolitan centers). If you plan to pursue a more specialized beauty career, such as hair dresser or spa therapist, schooling is less expensive--typically anywhere between $3,000 and $5,000. The good news is, beauty school can still be a great option even for those with limited finances. Most beauty schools do not require you to pay tuition upfront, and offer students a variety of payment plans and financial aid packages in the form of loans, grants, and scholarships.
Taking Advantage of Financial Aid for Beauty School
Because beauty schools are essentially businesses and want to attract as many students as possible, most are quite helpful when it comes to awarding financial aid packages. Below is a list of some common financial aid options.
- Grants - Grants can cover either a portion of or the entire cost of tuition don't need to be repaid. Examples are the Federal Pell Grant funded by the federal government and the American Cosmetology Education Grant. Your school of choice can usually help with the grant application process.
- Scholarships - Scholarships are often awarded to students who demonstrate excellence in high school or college, but can also take into account your financial need and other criteria as defined by each organization. Competition for scholarships is high, so be sure to apply early.
- Federal Work Study - Some beauty schools offer Federal Work Study (FWS), which allows students to earn money for education expenses by working on campus or for a designated off-campus employer.
- Loans - Some loans are available based on financial need, while others are not based on need. While loans must eventually be repaid, they are an option for students who need additional funds to finance beauty educations.
Other Ways to Make Beauty School Work for You
If you don't qualify for financial aid or simply wish to supplement your financial assistance package with smart lifestyle choices. If work, family, or other obligations prevent you from attending traditional classes, consider enrolling in night school.
Featured Schools
Boost your career with training from the American Institute School of Wellness and Beauty.
- Pompano Beach
- Cosmetology
Prepare for a Massage Therapy or Skin Care Career That You Will Love!
- Pompano Beach
- Maitland
- Miami
- Bradenton
- Advanced Paramedical Skin Care Program
- Skin Care and Electrology Training Program
If you are looking for a multi-faceted and dynamic education in the beauty industry then look no further. The Studio Academy of Beauty is focused on your career.
- Phoenix
- Chandler
- Cosmetology
- Esthetics
Get your career on the right track with Southern Careers Institute.
- Corpus Christi
- San Antonio
- Brownsville
- Cosmetology Operator - Evening
- Cosmetology Operator - Day
Prepare for an exciting new career at the Milan Institute.
- Bakersfield
- Boise
- Clovis
- Nampa
- San Antonio
- Cosmetology
- Esthetician
Train for the real-world skills that help you launch a successful technology or healthcare career with a degree, or diploma from Florida Career College.
- Boynton Beach
- West Palm Beach
- Clearwater
- Miami
- Hollywood
- Diploma - Cosmetology
- Diploma - Skin Care Specialist
Gain the tools you need for success at Globe University.
- Online
- Saint Paul
- Minneapolis
- Sioux Falls
- Lakeville
- AAS in Cosmetology Business
