Choosing an esthetician school takes more than finding a campus near you. You need a program that teaches the services you want to provide, gives you time to practice and prepares you to meet your state’s requirements for becoming a licensed esthetician.
Start with the details of each esthetics program, rather than assuming that schools with similar names offer the same training. Programs, schedules and costs vary by campus and state. The following questions will help you make a useful comparison.
Is the Esthetics Program Available at Your Campus?
A school may offer esthetics at some locations but not others. Before comparing courses or costs, confirm that the program is offered at the campus you want to attend. Ask about its next start date and whether you can visit the classrooms and student clinic.
You can use Empire Beauty School’s school finder to search by location and program. Check the details with the campus so you know which options are currently available.
Does the Program Meet Your State’s Requirements?
States set their own requirements for esthetics training and licensure. Ask each school how its program aligns with the rules in the state where you plan to work. Find out how many training hours you must complete, what steps follow graduation and whether you will need to pass a licensing exam.
If you may move after school, check the requirements in that state, too. Completing a program in one state does not automatically mean you can practice in another.
What Will You Learn and Practice?
Look beyond a course list and ask how much time you will spend applying what you learn. An esthetics curriculum may include skin analysis, facials, hair removal, makeup, safety and sanitation. Empire Beauty School’s Esthetics/Aesthetics program, for example, covers facials, waxing and makeup techniques.
Ask when students begin practicing services and whether they work with guests under instructor supervision. A campus visit can help you see the learning environment and ask how instructors give feedback. Ask specific questions: What services will you practice, and how will the school assess your progress?
Will the Schedule Work for You?
A program that looks right on paper also has to fit your life. Compare class days and hours, expected time on campus, program length and available start dates. If you work or care for family members, ask what happens when you miss a class or need to make up hours.
Get the schedule for the campus and start date you are considering. Another campus at the same school may offer different options.
What Will the Program Cost?
Ask each school for a breakdown of total costs. Find out which costs are included in the quoted price and whether there may be additional expenses during the program.
Also ask what financial assistance is available for that specific program. Empire Beauty School’s financial aid team can help prospective students review options for which they may qualify, including scholarships, grants and loans.
How Does the School Prepare You for Licensure?
Training should help you build practical skills and prepare for the next steps required by your state. Ask how instructors review state rules, sanitation procedures and material covered on the licensing exam. You can also ask how the school helps students understand the application and testing process.
As you compare schools, keep your answers together for each campus. That makes it easier to weigh the experience you will have as a student alongside the time and cost involved.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are esthetician school and an esthetics program the same thing?
An esthetician school is a school that offers training in esthetics. An esthetics program is the course of study you complete. Some beauty schools offer several programs, so confirm that esthetics is available at the campus you want to attend.
How long does an esthetics program take?
The required training hours vary by state, and the time needed to finish depends on the program schedule. Ask the school for the hours and expected completion time at your chosen campus.
Can I get financial aid for an esthetician school?
Financial aid may be available if you and the program qualify. Ask the school’s financial aid team which options apply to the esthetics program you are considering.
What should I ask during a campus tour?
Ask to see the classrooms and student clinic. Find out what services students practice, when they begin working with guests and how the program prepares them for state licensure.