Investing in your future as a cosmetologist can be an exciting step—but like many prospective beauty professionals, you may wonder how to pay for cosmetology school. At Elite Academy of Cosmetology, we understand that financing your education can feel overwhelming at first. That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive guide to walk you through your options, explain what financial assistance is available, and help you confidently take the first steps toward your dream career.
Whether you’re just starting your research or already filling out applications, this blog can give you the clarity you need.
Why Invest in Cosmetology School?
Before we dive into financial options, let’s talk about why cosmetology school can be worth the investment. A license in cosmetology can open doors to a variety of career paths, including hairstyling, skincare, makeup artistry, nail technology, and more. The beauty industry is vibrant, growing, and constantly evolving—offering creative freedom, job flexibility, and the ability to build your own brand or business.
Graduating from an accredited school like Elite Academy of Cosmetology can provide more than technical training. You can gain the professionalism, safety knowledge, and real-world experience needed to thrive in the industry.
Still, we understand that tuition and other costs are a concern for many students. That’s why we offer multiple ways to help make your education affordable.
How Much Does Cosmetology School Cost?
The cost of cosmetology school can vary depending on the program you choose, supplies needed, and the length of your training. At Elite Academy of Cosmetology, our team will walk you through a personalized breakdown of tuition, books, kits, and fees when you speak with our admissions department.
On average, you can expect the total cost of a full cosmetology program to be in the range of $10,000 to $20,000. However, this investment can be significantly reduced through financial aid, grants, scholarships, and payment plans—all of which we’ll cover below.
What Types of Financial Aid Are Available?
Because Elite Academy of Cosmetology is an accredited college, we are proud to offer a variety of financial aid and assistance options to eligible students. Let’s break down what that includes:
1. Federal Grants
Grants are a type of financial aid that does not need to be repaid, making them a great starting point for many students.
Pell Grants
The most common type of federal grant is the Pell Grant, which is awarded based on financial need as determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®).
In the 2024–2025 school year, the maximum Pell Grant award is over $7,000. Many students at Elite Academy of Cosmetology qualify for full or partial Pell Grants.
Other Grants
Depending on your background, you may also qualify for state grants, minority-focused grants, or grants for specific circumstances (such as being a single parent or returning to school later in life).
2. Student Loans
If you need additional funding after grants, federal student loans may be an option. These must be paid back, but they come with low interest rates and flexible repayment terms.
Direct Subsidized Loans
Available to students with financial need, the U.S. Department of Education pays the interest on these loans while you’re in school.
Direct Unsubsidized Loans
Available to all students regardless of financial need. You’re responsible for the interest, but payments can often be deferred while you’re in school.
PLUS Loans
Parents of dependent students can apply for Parent PLUS Loans to help cover the remainder of tuition and expenses.
Note: Private loans are also an option, though they usually come with higher interest rates. We encourage students to exhaust federal loan options first.
3. VA Education Benefits
If you or a family member has served in the U.S. military, you may be eligible for Veterans Affairs (VA) education benefits, including:
- Post-9/11 GI Bill®
- Montgomery GI Bill®
- Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E)
These programs can cover partial or full tuition costs, and often provide a living stipend as well. Our team at Elite Academy is familiar with VA processes and can help guide you through your benefit application.
4. Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) Funding
Students who are members of federally recognized tribes may be eligible for funding through the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA). This funding can help cover tuition, books, and even living expenses.
The application process typically requires documentation from your tribe and verification of enrollment in an accredited school. Our financial aid advisors are happy to assist with the paperwork.
5. Rehabilitation Funding
If you have a documented disability or are part of a vocational rehabilitation program, you may qualify for rehabilitation funding through state or federal programs.
These funds are designed to help individuals gain the training they need to become self-sufficient and employed. Talk to a vocational rehab counselor in your area to find out if you qualify, or speak with our admissions team for help connecting to local resources.
6. Self-Pay Options
Prefer to pay your tuition out-of-pocket? Elite Academy of Cosmetology offers self-pay options that can be customized to your needs. This includes:
- Full tuition payments upfront
- Interest-free payment plans
- Credit card payments
This flexibility allows you to choose the structure that works best with your budget and schedule.
How to Get Started with Financial Aid
We’re here to help simplify the process! Here’s a step-by-step guide to starting your financial aid journey:
Step 1: Fill Out the FAFSA®
The first and most important step is completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®). This form determines your eligibility for grants, loans, and certain scholarships.
- Visit studentaid.gov
- Use Elite Academy of Cosmetology’s school code (our admissions office will provide it!)
- Gather your tax returns, income info, and personal details
Once submitted, you’ll receive a Student Aid Report (SAR) that outlines your expected family contribution and potential aid.
Step 2: Meet with a Financial Aid Advisor
After submitting your FAFSA®, schedule a one-on-one meeting with one of our financial aid advisors. They’ll:
- Review your FAFSA results
- Explain your aid eligibility
- Help you apply for grants and loans
- Answer questions about repayment, timelines, and more
This personalized support is one of the ways we help remove the stress from the financial aid process.
Step 3: Explore Additional Funding
Beyond federal aid, look into:
- Local scholarships
- Employer tuition assistance
- Community organizations
- Beauty industry associations
Our team can help you track down and apply for scholarships that fit your background and goals.
Step 4: Choose a Payment Plan (if needed)
If your tuition balance isn’t fully covered by aid, don’t worry. We’ll help you set up a payment plan that works for your lifestyle and finances. Many students successfully combine aid with monthly self-pay contributions.
FAQs About Paying for Cosmetology School
Do I have to repay grants?
No! Grants are gift aid and do not need to be repaid—unless you withdraw early or don’t meet the requirements.
What if I have bad credit?
Federal student loans do not require credit checks, so having poor credit will not disqualify you from financial aid.
Can I work while going to school?
Yes! Many students balance part-time work with classes. Our schedules are designed to support working students whenever possible.
Do you accept outside scholarships?
Absolutely. If you receive scholarships from community groups or private donors, we can apply them toward your tuition.
Why Choose Elite Academy of Cosmetology?
Choosing the right beauty school isn’t just about cost—it’s about value. At Elite Academy of Cosmetology, we’re committed to providing you with:
- Accredited training programs in cosmetology
- Hands-on experience in our student salon
- Dedicated support from admissions to graduation
- Flexible payment options and expert financial aid assistance
Our goal is to make beauty school accessible and achievable for every student, regardless of background or budget.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
Your future in beauty is calling—and we’re here to help you answer it. Paying for cosmetology school may seem complicated, but at Elite Academy of Cosmetology, we’ll be with you every step of the way. Whether you’re applying for grants, applying for VA benefits, or creating a personalized payment plan, our team will support you.
Don’t let finances hold you back from pursuing your passion.
Contact Us Today
Ready to learn more about financial aid and enrollment? Contact our admissions office to schedule a campus tour or financial aid consultation.
