What Are the Requirements To Attend Cosmetology School?

Are you ready to take the next step in becoming a professional makeup artist or hairstylist? As any young professional knows, it is nearly impossible to establish a career in cosmetology without completing an accredited training course. A cosmetology education will not only give you the skills and business savvy you need but also grants you the completed course hours to apply for a professional state license and get hired in your job field.

Applying to any college or trade school can often seem like a whirlwind of applications and unanswered questions. This guide will help you understand all the requirements for cosmetology college and lead you walking into your first cosmetology class.

The good news overall is that cosmetology courses do not typically have the long and time-consuming application processes that four-year universities do. As well, the requirements are generally more inclusive if one is willing to commit to the program.

Age and Education Requirements

One positive aspect of applying to cosmetology college is that there are relatively low barriers to who can enroll in a program and become a professional cosmetologist. All ages and backgrounds are accepted and highly encouraged to apply.

However, as in any institution, there is an age and education requirement to be able to enroll in a cosmetology program. Schools usually require you to be at least 16-18 years of age depending on the college. It’s also important to note that the State Board of Cosmetology does have an age requirement for licensure, even if a cosmetology program does not. For Indiana, the application for a license has an age requirement of 18 years. Beyond age, programs generally require a high school diploma or an equivalent, such as a General Educational Development (GED) fulfillment.

Speak to an Enrollment Advisor

Once you complete your research and have decided which cosmetology program you want to attend, it is highly recommended that you contact the school directly to speak to an enrollment advisor. These people make it a priority to help you through the enrollment process and are there to answer any questions.

At PJ’s College of Cosmetology , enrollment advisors are standing by to help you through the enrollment process. If you have any questions on how to complete an accredited cosmetology course, please contact us on our website or call 800-62-SALON (72566).

Check Deadlines and Class Schedules

As you are researching and talking to an enrollment advisor, it is imperative that you confirm the start dates, deadlines, and upcoming class schedule for the program you are interested in. One positive note is that cosmetology courses often take place on a rolling basis throughout the year, rather than only taking place once or twice a year as a four-year institution. The program will generally be around 1,000-2,000+ hours, but you can choose the time of year and if a part-time or full-time schedule will be best for you.

Application Process

The application process should be relatively easy and short for most cosmetology courses. Mostly this process is just verifying that you meet the requirements—filling out personal information, showing high school transcripts, diploma, or GED results, and verifying identification with a state-issued ID.

Some schools may require an interview or a short essay. However, cosmetology schools ultimately want you to enroll and find success with their program. Enrollment advisors are there to help you complete the process as quickly and easily as possible. The point is not to exclude or prevent people from attending, but to help everyone reach the requirements, so they have the tools to become the best cosmetologist they can be.

At PJ’s College of Cosmetology, an enrollment advisor can best help you complete the application process. They will walk you through the requirements after you have submitted contact information.

Complete the FAFSA and Financial Planning

Paying for cosmetology school can be a concern for those considering enrolling. At the end of the day, an education in cosmetology is an investment that provides long-term rewards. There is financial assistance available, along with financial plans that can help you complete your cosmetology education in an affordable way.

It is essential that any prospective students complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Updating this information every academic year ensures that you are able to qualify for financial assistance that is applicable to your situation.

Here are some of the financial resources available to those who qualify:

Federal Grants are monetary assistance given to people to help pay for school. If you are awarded money, you do not have to pay it back. This is awarded based on financial need.

Direct Loans are borrowed monies through the U.S. Department of Education that must be repaid (with interest).

Scholarships are provided by some companies, professional associations, and religious groups to individuals or their family members seeking an education. Searching the internet for scholarship opportunities is a great way to see what might be available to you.

Veterans Affairs Education Benefits (VA) is available for people who are eligible for veterans’ benefits.

Complete Your Enrollment

Once you have made sure you reached the enrollment requirements and submitted all the necessary documents to apply, along with setting up a financial payment plan with the institution, you are ready to start attending your cosmetology classes. An enrollment advisor can help you sign any necessary paperwork to confirm your enrollment and agree to school policies. Once classes begin, you simply have to learn, apply yourself, and practice your skills. Before you know it, you’ll be ready to take the state license exam and establish yourself as a working professional.

If you are ready to enroll in an accredited cosmetology program, PJ’s College of Cosmetology is currently taking new students. Our enrollment advisors are available to walk you through the entire process. Give us a call at 800-62-SALON (72566) or fill out an information request. We are here to assist you in achieving your cosmetology career goals.