How Empire Prepares You for the Cosmetology State Board Exam
What’s on the State Board Exam?
Before you feel confident walking into the testing center, you need to know exactly what the exam covers. Every state is a little different, but most exams include the same core areas:
- Safety and sanitation
- Haircutting and styling
- Chemical services
- Skin and nail basics
- Client communication
- Written theory exam
- Hands-on practical exam
For a lot of students, the biggest worry isn’t talent — it’s knowing what to expect. That’s where strong cosmetology state board prep makes all the difference.
Empire’s Mock Testing System
The best way to prepare for the exam is to practice it — not just read about it. Empire uses a mock testing system that mirrors the real state board exam step by step. Students walk through:
- Timed written tests
- Practical skill demonstrations
- Set-up and sanitation procedures
- State-specific requirements
- Common errors and how to avoid them
By the time you face the real exam, it feels familiar. You’ve already done a version of it in class, with instructors watching and giving feedback.
Mock testing removes the unknowns — and that’s usually what makes people nervous. variety and want to offer multiple types of services.
Real-World Training = Real Confidence
You can’t prepare for a hands-on exam with only books and videos. You need real tools and real practice. Empire students learn by doing:
- Haircutting, coloring, and styling on mannequins
- Hands-on services for guests in the student salon
- Chemical texture services
- Makeup and skincare techniques
- Proper sanitation and setup
The exam isn’t about doing the “perfect” haircut. It’s about following the right steps in the right order. The more your training feels like real salon work, the easier the exam becomes.
If you’ve already done something hundreds of times in class, repeating it in front of an examiner is just another day.ermatology clinics, or medspas — often alongside doctors or other skincare professionals.
Instructor Support and Study Resources
Strong preparation isn’t just about practice — it’s about support. Empire’s instructors have worked in the industry, taken the exam themselves, and helped thousands of students pass.
Students get access to:
- One-on-one instructor help
- Study guides and review sheets
- Written exam practice
- Practical step-by-step walk-throughs
- Small group sessions
- Extra help for areas you want to improve
The goal is simple: walk into the exam knowing you’re ready.
If you put in the work, there’s no reason to doubt yourself.
Next Steps After Passing
Passing the state board exam is your official start in the industry. After you pass:
- You apply for your license
- You can work in salons, spas, barbershops, or specialty services
- You can start building a client base
- Some students choose to work part-time or jump straight into full-time
- Others move toward independent suite rental once they gain confidence
Empire’s support doesn’t stop at graduation. You can still reach out with questions as you prepare for your first job or your first salon interview.
If you’re ready to take the next step, here are a few helpful links:
Find answers to common questions: /faq
Explore Empire’s cosmetology program: /programs/cosmetology
Learn more about scheduling and enrollment: /apply
See what real training looks like in the student salon: /guest-services
Frequently Asked Questions
How hard is the cosmetology state board exam?
It’s challenging, but very passable with the right prep. Most students struggle with timing, nerves, or sanitation steps — not talent. Practicing through mock exams makes a big difference.
What happens if I fail the exam the first time?
You can retake the exam. Many states allow you to retest quickly. Empire helps you review what went wrong and practice the parts you need to fix.
Does Empire actually teach the exact steps required on the exam?
Yes. The mock practical exams follow the same order of operations used in real testing. Students learn every step, from setup to sanitation to finishing procedures.
How much time should I spend studying for the written test?
Most students study a little each day. Instructors give study guides, flashcards, and review materials to help you stay on track without feeling overwhelmed.
Do I need my own supplies for state board prep?
Empire provides the essential tools for training. Some states require a specific exam kit, which your campus will help you understand and prepare.
What part of the exam do students usually find the hardest?
Sanitation steps and timing. Both become easier once you’ve practiced them repeatedly through mock testing.
Will I feel ready by graduation?
If you show up, practice, and use the help offered, yes. Most students feel confident because they’ve already completed mock exams before the real one.
Does Empire help after I pass?
Yes. After you pass, instructors can guide you on licensing steps, job readiness, and how to start applying to salons.
Ready to Talk to Someone?
If you’re serious about cosmetology state board prep and you want a program that guides you from day one to exam day, the next move is simple. Schedule a tour and see what beauty school is really like.
Join a community, enroll at Empire Beauty School where your dreams become reality.For more information about Empire Beauty School, or how to enroll, please click!