Applying to beauty school is not difficult, although the application procedures do vary a bit depending upon what type of program you want to attend.
To attend a beauty school program offered through a community college, you must generally have a high school diploma or GED and be at least seventeen years of age. You do not need to have ACT or SAT scores, but you will likely be asked to take a placement test to determine your skill level in reading, writing, and math. The cosmetology department may have minimum test score requirements for admission or require that you complete remedial general education classes if your scores are below a certain level.
Private beauty school programs often require a high school diploma or a GED, but some will offer conditional admission if other criteria can be met. You do not need to take a placement test to start courses at this type of beauty school, but it is common to be asked to pay a nonrefundable registration and application fee.
Beauty School Admission
Cosmetology schools often have a limited number of spaces available. If you are interested in attending beauty school, you should apply for admission as soon as possible. (Keep in mind that the highest ranked schools will be the hardest to get into.) While some schools admit only the most qualified applicants, others offer admissions on a first-come basis. If your application is received late, you may be placed on a waiting list.
If you are interested in receiving financial aid for your beauty school education, you will need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This is a form that is separate from your beauty school application and available on the U.S. Department of Education’s Federal Student Aid website. An admissions representative from the beauty school you wish to attend can help you complete the FAFSA if needed.