| Tuition is just a number to start with. | | | | needs-without regard for price. The most efficient |
| Estimates for beauty school costs run the gamut | | | | method of starting your search for an accredited |
| nationwide. Larger, metropolitan areas with high | | | | academy is through an online beauty school |
| demand and even higher expectations may | | | | directory. Then, make an appointment to meet |
| charge up to $15,000 for a degree in hair styling. | | | | with the admissions counselor to determine how |
| On the other hand, programs in nail artistry, skin | | | | much financial aid and scholarships you are eligible |
| care, and make-up are considerably less, | | | | for. That's when the real numbers come into play. |
| averaging between $3,000 and $6,000. | | | | For example, here's how Alexandra, a student |
| Remember, however, you get what you pay for. | | | | from Pennsylvania, tackles her tuition challenge: |
| Top rated salons, day spas, resorts, hotels, and | | | | Program rate - $10,000 |
| medical offices look for students from highly | | | | Financial aid - $4,000 |
| reputable beauty academies and institutes that | | | | Applying for scholarships - $2,000 |
| have fully prepared its graduates for the demands | | | | Student loan - $2,000 |
| of a career in the fashion and/or professional | | | | Monthly payment - $167 (for a 12-month |
| industries. By nature, these schools will charge a | | | | program) |
| premium in terms of tuition. | | | | Each year, tens of thousands of beauty school |
| Smart students don't stop at the dollar signs, | | | | students like Alexandra find affordable ways to |
| knowing that fully accredited cosmetology schools | | | | put themselves through design college-some |
| will typically offer thousands of dollars in financial | | | | earning up to 75 percent of the required tuition |
| aid, significantly reducing the 'sticker price shock.' | | | | through grants, aid, and scholarships-and you can |
| First, choose the right hair styling, esthetician, nail | | | | too. |
| technician, or barber program for your | | | | |
