The academic year is almost coming to an end, which means many excited students will be thinking about the next chapter of their lives. Perhaps a gap year for travel, a year working to raise some money before deciding on what to do next, or maybe you have decided you want to attend Cosmetology School. You have a passion for beauty, and know that Cosmetology School has many benefits over traditional higher education institutions, so there is nothing left to do but apply, right? All Cosmetology Schools are the same, aren’t they?

Wrong! There can be huge variations between different Cosmetology or Beauty Schools. They can differ in the programs they offer, their teaching methods, and even in the Cosmetology Kits that they provide. Since attending a Cosmetology School is the first step on your journey to becoming a Cosmetologist, you need to be sure that you are heading in the right direction. Before enrolling at a Cosmetology School, you need to do you research, to ensure that you’re giving your future career the best possible foundation. So, here are five things to look for in a Cosmetology School.

Accreditation

A good Cosmetology School will be fully accredited. This means that their curriculum and course material has been approved, covering all the necessary skills, techniques and information needed to pass the state’s board exam. Passing this exam is the main goal of completing Cosmetology School, as it earns you the license you need to practice cosmetology legally.

An institution that is fully accredited, like Ogle School is, gives so much more credibility to future employers, and even clients. Going to a Beauty School without the proper accreditation, is akin to attending university without receiving a degree. Furthermore, non-accredited schools are not eligible for federal financial aid schemes. Make the smart choice and choose a Cosmetology School that is accredited.

Dedicated Teaching Staff

At one point or another during our education, we have probably had a lesson with a less than enthusiastic teacher. You find yourself drifting off, as you lecturer drones on and on through the course material. At the end of each lesson, you find you can’t remember a thing about it. At a great Cosmetology School there will be NO instructors like this. They should be just as passionate about all things beauty, as you are.

A team of dedicated instructors will make the material come to life, and will offer an immersive, hands on learning experience. The instructors should not just teach the course, but also support their students as Cosmetology School can be challenging at times. When attending campus visits, ask if you can observe both classroom lectures and in-salon training. This will give you a good feel for the instructors, to see if they are teachers you could happily learn from.

Happy Students

Whilst on your campus visit, take the opportunity to talk to some of the current cosmetology student. You can learn more about a school from the students, than any prospectus could tell you. Ask about their experiences at the school, such as how the instructors deliver the material, and how much their skills have grown, during their time there. Students that are happy with their Cosmetology School experience are a good indicator that the institution is one worth considering.

Remember, don’t be afraid to ask them any questions, or bring up any concerns you may have. They were in your position once, so they will understand all the research that goes into choosing a Cosmetology School.

Fair Cost and Financial Aid

Cosmetology School is not free. Like any other institution, there is a price to a high quality education, with each school charging different prices depended on the courses they offer, the equipment they provide, and any additional services, such as job placements. Comparing the costs  of Cosmetology Schools, will let you know which one fits into your budget.

However, if you dream school seems to be out of your reach financially, that doesn’t mean that the dream is over. Accredited Cosmetology Schools usually have financial aid programs that can help those who qualify, pay for study. So, check with your chosen schools, which financial aid options they have available, such as grants, student loans, payment plans, and scholarships.

Courses Offered

Cosmetology is not a single subject, it covers such a wide number of beauty professions, each of which requires a different set of skills. These skills can be acquired through the courses offered in Cosmetology School. So, you need to check that the beauty profession you want to pursue in the future, be it hair stylist, make up artist, or other, is covered by one of the courses offered.

Furthermore, you may have commitments in life that would make full-time study difficult, such as young children or a job that you need to keep to pay expenses. A good Cosmetology School will have part-time and night-time courses available, so candidates can fit their studies around their schedules.

Now when you are researching Cosmetology Schools to attend, and making visits to campuses, you know what questions to ask, and what to look for. Remember to get in contact with Ogle School, if you have any questions about our programs, staff, or anything else. We know we are a great Cosmetology School, but we want you to be sure of it too, before you enrol. Choosing a Beauty School is a big decision, and we want you to be certain that you’re making the right choice for you.