Cosmetology School Scholarships & Financial Aid

Cosmetology school is a significant investment, with programs costing anywhere from $2,000 at community colleges to $25,000 or more at private beauty schools. When you add in required supplies, licensing exam fees, and starter kits, the total can stretch your budget thin. The good news is that multiple scholarship and financial aid options exist specifically for cosmetology students.

This guide covers federal financial aid, industry-specific scholarships, employer-sponsored training, and creative ways to reduce your cosmetology education costs. Many of these funding sources can be combined to significantly lower your out-of-pocket expenses.

Federal Financial Aid for Cosmetology Students

Pell Grants and FAFSA

Federal Pell Grants provide up to $7,395 per year (2024–2025 award year) for eligible students based on financial need. Pell Grants do not require repayment, making them the most desirable form of federal aid. To qualify, your cosmetology school must be accredited and participate in the federal student aid program. Complete the FAFSA at studentaid.gov as early as possible — some aid is distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Federal Student Loans

If grants and scholarships do not cover your full costs, federal Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans are available through the FAFSA. Subsidized loans do not accrue interest while you are in school at least half-time. Borrow only what you need — cosmetology program costs are generally lower than four-year degrees, so your loan burden should be manageable if you borrow conservatively.

Federal Work-Study

Some accredited cosmetology programs participate in the Federal Work-Study program, which provides part-time employment to help pay education expenses. Work-study positions may be at the school itself or at approved off-campus locations. Check with your school's financial aid office about availability.

Industry Scholarships for Cosmetology Students

The beauty industry supports several scholarship programs aimed at helping aspiring cosmetologists afford their education. These are typically competitive and require an application essay, portfolio, or demonstration of financial need.

• Beauty Changes Lives Foundation: Offers multiple scholarship programs for students enrolled in cosmetology, esthetics, nail technology, and barbering programs. Awards vary in amount and are available at participating schools.
• Joe Francis Haircare Scholarship Foundation: Provides scholarships to cosmetology students attending participating schools. Awards are applied directly to tuition balances.
• Professional Beauty Association (PBA) scholarships: The PBA offers financial assistance to beauty school students through various scholarship programs.
• Sport Clips “Heart of a Champion” Scholarship: Available to students enrolled in cosmetology or barbering programs, funded by Sport Clips franchisees.
• Great Clips scholarship programs: Great Clips has historically offered scholarships to cosmetology students at partner schools.

Search each organization's website for current application deadlines and eligibility criteria. Many of these scholarships accept applications on a rolling or annual basis.

State Programs and Workforce Grants

Many states offer workforce development grants that can be applied toward vocational training programs, including cosmetology. These programs are typically administered through state workforce agencies or community college systems. Examples include:

• Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) training vouchers through your local American Job Center
• State vocational rehabilitation programs for students with disabilities
• State-specific tuition-free community college initiatives that cover cosmetology programs
• Displaced worker retraining grants for career changers

Contact your local American Job Center (find one at careeronestop.org) to learn about workforce training funds available in your area.

Apprenticeship and Earn-While-You-Learn Options

Several states allow cosmetology apprenticeships as an alternative to traditional beauty school. In an apprenticeship, you work under a licensed cosmetologist in a salon while completing required training hours. This allows you to earn money while learning, significantly reducing or eliminating tuition costs.

Apprenticeship availability, hour requirements, and regulations vary by state. Check your state's Board of Cosmetology for apprenticeship rules and requirements. Not all states offer this pathway, and apprenticeships typically take longer than traditional school programs.

Essential Supplies and Tools

Beyond tuition, you will need a professional cosmetology kit. Many schools require a specific kit purchase, but if you can buy your own supplies, shopping strategically can save hundreds of dollars.

Cosmetology student kits on Amazon — compare prices on shears, mannequin heads, brushes, and practice supplies.

Cosmetology textbooks on Amazon — buying used or renting textbooks can save significantly over purchasing new through your school's bookstore.

How to Apply for Cosmetology Scholarships

1. Complete the FAFSA first: Even if you plan to attend a private beauty school, filing the FAFSA determines your eligibility for Pell Grants and federal loans.
2. Ask your school: Many cosmetology schools have institutional scholarships or partnerships with industry organizations. The admissions or financial aid office can point you to options you might not find online.
3. Apply to multiple scholarships: Each scholarship you apply for increases your chances. Even small awards of $500 or $1,000 add up quickly.
4. Check WIOA eligibility: Visit your local American Job Center to see if you qualify for workforce training funds that can cover cosmetology school tuition.
5. Consider community college programs: If cost is a major barrier, community college cosmetology programs offer the same state licensure preparation at a fraction of private school prices.

For a complete guide to cosmetology licensing requirements and costs by state, see our cosmetology licensing guide.

Frequently Asked Questions