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rhegan
Student
Atlantic, Iowa
3
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hair school ?
I'm interested in going into hair styling, how did you know where you wanted to go to school?
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3 answers
Priyanka K
Software Engineer
29
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Little Elm, Texas
Updated
Priyanka’s Answer
Choosing the right school for hair styling (often referred to as cosmetology school) is an exciting but important decision! The school you attend can shape your skills, opportunities, and future success in the beauty industry. Here’s a guide to help you figure out how to choose the right school, what factors to consider, and how to get started.
1. Understand the Basics of Hair Styling School
Hair styling is typically part of a cosmetology program, which teaches you not only hair cutting and styling but also coloring, chemical treatments, and sometimes skin and nail care. Programs vary in duration but typically take 9 months to 2 years to complete, depending on whether you study full-time or part-time.
After completing cosmetology school, you’ll need to pass a state licensure exam to legally work as a stylist in your area.
2. Research Local and National Schools
When deciding where to go to school, start by researching options in your area or consider attending a well-known national beauty school brand. Some reputable schools include:
Paul Mitchell Schools
Aveda Institutes
Empire Beauty Schools
Tony & Guy Hairdressing Academy
Pivot Point Academy
Local schools can also be a great option if they have strong reputations or partnerships with salons in your area. Search for schools with accreditation from organizations like the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences (NACCAS).
3. Factors to Consider When Choosing a School
Here’s what to look for to find the right fit:
a. Curriculum
Make sure the program includes everything you want to learn. While all cosmetology schools cover the basics of hair cutting, styling, and coloring, some offer specialized training in areas like:
Advanced coloring techniques (balayage, ombre, etc.)
Hair extensions or braiding
Barbering
Makeup application
Business and salon management (important if you want to open your own salon someday!)
Actionable Tip: Ask the school for a course list or syllabus to ensure the program aligns with your career goals.
b. Accreditation
Choose a school that’s state-approved and accredited by a recognized organization like NACCAS. Accreditation ensures the school meets industry standards and prepares you for licensure.
c. Hands-On Training
Hair styling is a hands-on profession, so look for schools with plenty of practical, real-world experience. Many schools operate student salons where you’ll practice on real clients under supervision.
Actionable Tip: Visit the school and ask about the ratio of classroom learning vs. hands-on practice.
d. Licensing Preparation
Your school should prepare you to pass your state’s cosmetology licensing exam. Ask about their licensure success rates—how many of their graduates pass the exam on the first try?
e. Location
Consider whether you want to attend a school close to home or relocate. If you’re staying local, factor in commute times. If you’re moving, research the cost of living in that area and housing options for students.
f. Tuition Costs and Financial Aid
Cosmetology school tuition can range from $5,000 to $20,000, depending on the program’s length and reputation. Some schools offer scholarships or payment plans, and federal student aid may be available if the school is accredited.
Questions to ask:
What is the total cost of the program?
Are there scholarships or grants available?
Can I set up a payment plan?
Actionable Tip: Use the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to check for federal aid eligibility.
g. Career Support
Look for schools that provide career placement services, such as:
Partnerships with salons
Help with resumes and interviews
Networking opportunities
Alumni success stories
Actionable Tip: Ask if the school has a job placement program or connections to well-known salons.
4. Visit Schools and Ask Questions
Once you have a shortlist of schools, schedule tours or attend open houses. This will give you a feel for the environment, instructors, and facilities. Here are some questions to ask during your visit:
What’s the typical class size?
How much hands-on training will I get?
Do students work on real clients?
What’s the licensure exam pass rate?
Are there opportunities for advanced training or certifications?
How does the school help graduates find jobs?
Actionable Tip: Talk to current students or alumni to get honest feedback about the school.
5. Consider Your Long-Term Goals
Think about what kind of career you want after graduation:
Do you want to specialize in hair styling, coloring, or barbering?
Are you interested in working at high-end salons, opening your own business, or freelancing?
Do you want to work locally or in a big city with fashion or entertainment opportunities?
Choose a school that matches your aspirations. For example, a school like Aveda Institutes may be a great choice if you’re interested in eco-friendly beauty practices, while Paul Mitchell Schools might be ideal for someone seeking a well-known brand name with industry connections.
6. Take Advantage of Online Resources
Search for reviews and recommendations online to narrow down your options. Websites like BeautySchoolsDirectory.com or NACCAS.org can help you find accredited schools near you.
You can also explore social media platforms like Instagram or TikTok to see what graduates of specific schools are doing. Many stylists showcase their work and share their experiences with their alma maters.
How to Start Today
Research Schools: Make a list of cosmetology schools near you or consider national options like Paul Mitchell or Aveda.
Visit Schools: Schedule tours or attend open houses to see facilities and talk to instructors.
Compare Costs: Look into tuition, scholarships, and payment plans.
Prepare Financially: Complete the FAFSA if you’re eligible for federal aid.
Set Goals: Think about your career aspirations (specializations, salon ownership, etc.) to choose a program that fits your vision.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right hair school depends on your goals, budget, and the type of career you want. Take the time to research schools thoroughly, ask questions, and visit campuses to ensure you’re making the best choice for your future. The beauty industry is vibrant and full of opportunities, so starting with a strong foundation at the right school can set you up for a successful and fulfilling career!
1. Understand the Basics of Hair Styling School
Hair styling is typically part of a cosmetology program, which teaches you not only hair cutting and styling but also coloring, chemical treatments, and sometimes skin and nail care. Programs vary in duration but typically take 9 months to 2 years to complete, depending on whether you study full-time or part-time.
After completing cosmetology school, you’ll need to pass a state licensure exam to legally work as a stylist in your area.
2. Research Local and National Schools
When deciding where to go to school, start by researching options in your area or consider attending a well-known national beauty school brand. Some reputable schools include:
Paul Mitchell Schools
Aveda Institutes
Empire Beauty Schools
Tony & Guy Hairdressing Academy
Pivot Point Academy
Local schools can also be a great option if they have strong reputations or partnerships with salons in your area. Search for schools with accreditation from organizations like the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences (NACCAS).
3. Factors to Consider When Choosing a School
Here’s what to look for to find the right fit:
a. Curriculum
Make sure the program includes everything you want to learn. While all cosmetology schools cover the basics of hair cutting, styling, and coloring, some offer specialized training in areas like:
Advanced coloring techniques (balayage, ombre, etc.)
Hair extensions or braiding
Barbering
Makeup application
Business and salon management (important if you want to open your own salon someday!)
Actionable Tip: Ask the school for a course list or syllabus to ensure the program aligns with your career goals.
b. Accreditation
Choose a school that’s state-approved and accredited by a recognized organization like NACCAS. Accreditation ensures the school meets industry standards and prepares you for licensure.
c. Hands-On Training
Hair styling is a hands-on profession, so look for schools with plenty of practical, real-world experience. Many schools operate student salons where you’ll practice on real clients under supervision.
Actionable Tip: Visit the school and ask about the ratio of classroom learning vs. hands-on practice.
d. Licensing Preparation
Your school should prepare you to pass your state’s cosmetology licensing exam. Ask about their licensure success rates—how many of their graduates pass the exam on the first try?
e. Location
Consider whether you want to attend a school close to home or relocate. If you’re staying local, factor in commute times. If you’re moving, research the cost of living in that area and housing options for students.
f. Tuition Costs and Financial Aid
Cosmetology school tuition can range from $5,000 to $20,000, depending on the program’s length and reputation. Some schools offer scholarships or payment plans, and federal student aid may be available if the school is accredited.
Questions to ask:
What is the total cost of the program?
Are there scholarships or grants available?
Can I set up a payment plan?
Actionable Tip: Use the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to check for federal aid eligibility.
g. Career Support
Look for schools that provide career placement services, such as:
Partnerships with salons
Help with resumes and interviews
Networking opportunities
Alumni success stories
Actionable Tip: Ask if the school has a job placement program or connections to well-known salons.
4. Visit Schools and Ask Questions
Once you have a shortlist of schools, schedule tours or attend open houses. This will give you a feel for the environment, instructors, and facilities. Here are some questions to ask during your visit:
What’s the typical class size?
How much hands-on training will I get?
Do students work on real clients?
What’s the licensure exam pass rate?
Are there opportunities for advanced training or certifications?
How does the school help graduates find jobs?
Actionable Tip: Talk to current students or alumni to get honest feedback about the school.
5. Consider Your Long-Term Goals
Think about what kind of career you want after graduation:
Do you want to specialize in hair styling, coloring, or barbering?
Are you interested in working at high-end salons, opening your own business, or freelancing?
Do you want to work locally or in a big city with fashion or entertainment opportunities?
Choose a school that matches your aspirations. For example, a school like Aveda Institutes may be a great choice if you’re interested in eco-friendly beauty practices, while Paul Mitchell Schools might be ideal for someone seeking a well-known brand name with industry connections.
6. Take Advantage of Online Resources
Search for reviews and recommendations online to narrow down your options. Websites like BeautySchoolsDirectory.com or NACCAS.org can help you find accredited schools near you.
You can also explore social media platforms like Instagram or TikTok to see what graduates of specific schools are doing. Many stylists showcase their work and share their experiences with their alma maters.
How to Start Today
Research Schools: Make a list of cosmetology schools near you or consider national options like Paul Mitchell or Aveda.
Visit Schools: Schedule tours or attend open houses to see facilities and talk to instructors.
Compare Costs: Look into tuition, scholarships, and payment plans.
Prepare Financially: Complete the FAFSA if you’re eligible for federal aid.
Set Goals: Think about your career aspirations (specializations, salon ownership, etc.) to choose a program that fits your vision.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right hair school depends on your goals, budget, and the type of career you want. Take the time to research schools thoroughly, ask questions, and visit campuses to ensure you’re making the best choice for your future. The beauty industry is vibrant and full of opportunities, so starting with a strong foundation at the right school can set you up for a successful and fulfilling career!
Kory Conover-Hart
Customer Success
2
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Kory’s Answer
Hey Rhegan! I went to cosmetology school for makeup. The way I found the school that I went to was going to a makeup conference. Look for some cosmetology fair, events, etc.
Don Holland
Member Service Representative/Food Runner
244
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Don’s Answer
Hello Rhegan,
It is great that you want to pursue hairstyling! I would suggest looking up different programs or schools that are possible for you to go to and what qualifications you need to be a hair stylist. In terms of schools in Iowa, there is Aveda Institute Des Moines and Iowa School of Beauty that could possibly help you in terms of reaching your goal. I wish you the best of luck when it comes to pursuing this goal of being a hairstylist!
It is great that you want to pursue hairstyling! I would suggest looking up different programs or schools that are possible for you to go to and what qualifications you need to be a hair stylist. In terms of schools in Iowa, there is Aveda Institute Des Moines and Iowa School of Beauty that could possibly help you in terms of reaching your goal. I wish you the best of luck when it comes to pursuing this goal of being a hairstylist!