Which One is for You?

When people start looking into a career in beauty, one of the first questions they ask is whether they should go to cosmetology school or try an apprenticeship. On the surface, apprenticeships look appealing — lower cost, hands-on learning, and “learn while you earn.”

But the part most students miss is the timeline.
One path gets you licensed quickly. The other often takes much longer than you expect.

Before you make a decision, it’s important to understand how each option actually works, what the requirements look like, and which path helps you start your career sooner.

How Cosmetology School Works

Cosmetology school gives you a structured program with a set number of hours.
You move through training in a predictable, organized way — usually full-time or part-time — with a clear end date.

Most programs take 9 to 12 months when attending full time.

In school, you get:

• Guided instruction from licensed educators
• Hands-on training on the student salon floor
• Consistent scheduling
• Written and practical exam preparation
• A learning environment built around passing the State Board

You always know what’s next.
You can plan your graduation date.
And you have support at every step.

How Apprenticeships Work

Apprenticeships are very different. They rely on a salon to train you while you work.
That means your progress is tied to:

• The salon’s schedule
• Your mentor’s availability
• How many services you’re allowed to observe or practice
• Whether the salon stays consistent with state requirements

Most apprenticeship programs take 18 months to 2 years — often longer.
Not because students are slow, but because real salon schedules are unpredictable.

If the salon gets busy, your training slows down.
If your mentor leaves, your hours pause.
If the salon closes or changes ownership, you may have to start over.

It’s hands-on, but not always structured.

Which Path Gets You Licensed Faster?

Cosmetology school has the faster, more reliable timeline.

School = predictable hours, consistent training, and a set end date.
Apprenticeship = variable hours, inconsistent pacing, and long delays.

If your goal is to start earning as a licensed cosmetologist as soon as possible, school is the faster path in almost every case.

Which Path Prepares You Better for the State Board Exam?
This is where the difference becomes even clearer.

Cosmetology school prepares you intentionally.

You get:

• Mock exams
• Written test prep
• Hands-on practice
• Instructor feedback
• Structured repetition using the exact format of the State Board

Apprenticeships do not guarantee exam preparation.

Most salons are focused on clients — not teaching.
So unless your mentor goes out of their way, you won’t get:

• Timed exam walkthroughs
• State Board sanitation drills
• Written study support

This is why apprenticeship students often feel lost when exam time comes.

Cost Comparison: Is Apprenticeship Really Cheaper?

Apprenticeships usually don’t charge tuition, which gets attention.
But they do come with hidden costs:

• Lost time (extra months or years before you’re licensed)
• Lower earning potential while training
• Inconsistent skill development
• Higher chance of not completing the program

Cosmetology school is an investment, but you graduate faster, start earning sooner, and build confidence early.

Flexibility: Which Option Fits Your Life Better?

School offers structured scheduling

You pick a program that fits your life — full-time or part-time — and you know exactly when you’ll be there each week.

Apprenticeships depend on salon needs

Your training happens around their appointment book.
If they’re slow, you learn less.
If they’re busy, you sit and observe more than you practice.

Career Outcomes: Which Creates More Opportunities?

Cosmetology school opens more doors because you build a full foundation in:

• Haircutting
• Coloring
• Chemical services
• Skin and nails
• Safety and sanitation

Apprenticeships usually focus on the services that salon performs most.
If your mentor doesn’t specialize in something, you may never learn it.

That limits your options once you’re licensed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most common reason people fail the cosmetology State Board Exam?

Most students fail because they miss sanitation steps. Even small errors — like touching an item before sanitizing or disposing of materials incorrectly — can cost major points. Timing and organization also play a big role.

Is the cosmetology State Board Exam hard?

It can feel tough if you’re not familiar with the format. The written exam covers a lot of categories, and the practical exam is strict about procedure. Students who practice under real testing conditions usually feel it’s much more manageable.

How many times can you retake the cosmetology State Board Exam?

Most states allow multiple retakes, but rules vary. Some require a waiting period; others limit how many attempts you can make before retraining. It’s always best to check your state’s licensing board for specific details.

Can you fail for small mistakes on the practical exam?

Yes. The practical exam is strict because sanitation and safety come first. Missing a draping step, skipping a cleanup step, or cross-contaminating tools can lead to an automatic point deduction — and sometimes an automatic fail.

How long should I study before taking the State Board Exam?

Most students start preparing at least a month in advance. Short, consistent study sessions work better than cramming. Practice tests, hands-on run-throughs, and sanitation repetition make the biggest difference.

So Which Path Should You Choose?

If your goal is:

• a predictable graduation date,
• structured learning,
• strong exam prep, and
• a faster start to your new career…

Cosmetology school is the better path for most students.

Apprenticeships can work, but they rely heavily on the salon, the mentor, and the consistency of the schedule — and those things change quickly.

Cosmetology school gives you stability, support, and a clear route to becoming licensed.
Empire helps students build the skills, confidence, and hands-on experience they need to pass the State Board Exam — the first time. Schedule a tour and see what beauty school is really like.

Join a community, enroll at Empire Beauty School where your dreams become reality.

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