Top Scholarships for Cosmetology Students to Apply For

Can you think of an occasion where you didn’t worry about how your hair looked? Whether for celebration or regular maintenance, cosmetologists help us take care of our skin, hair, and nails and keep us looking our best!

Beauty professionals of all kinds are essential, but before becoming licensed, they must complete a certain number of hours of training. Paying the costs of cosmetology school and the supplies needed to practice can be a financial stressor for some students. Fortunately, there are tons of scholarships available specifically for cosmetology students.

When researching scholarships, it’s important to adopt a methodical approach: start by identifying your specific needs and eligibility, such as academic performance, financial need, or particular artistic talents. To help you on your search, we’ve reviewed various scholarship platforms to identify the best opportunities for future hair stylists. Our findings reveal that Bold.org offers some of the most promising opportunities for cosmetology students with upcoming deadlines. Below is a list of scholarships to help you get started. Take a look below.

Don’t miss out on funding your passion—apply for a cosmetology scholarship now!

Types of Cosmetology Scholarships Available

There are a variety of cosmetology scholarships available for students enrolled or planning to enroll in a cosmetology program, and the type of scholarship can influence what materials you’ll need to submit as part of the application.

Academic Merit-Based Scholarships

These scholarships are awarded based on academic performance. Scholarships of this type might require you to submit your GPA, standardized test scores, or other academic achievements. Some colleges automatically consider incoming students for academic merit-based scholarships, but other organizations may require separate applications.

Identity-Based Scholarships

These scholarships are designed for students from specific backgrounds or communities. They aim to support students from underrepresented or disadvantaged groups. Many of these scholarships are in honor of individuals from these communities, helping students with shared characteristics continue their education.

Need-Based Scholarships

If financial barriers are preventing you from pursuing your cosmetology education, need-based scholarships can help.

Brand-Sponsored Scholarships

Major brands in the beauty industry often sponsor scholarships to support students. These can be particularly valuable, as they sometimes offer networking opportunities and professional exposure as well.

High school students pursuing careers in the cosmetology field will benefit from scholarship awards. Apply for scholarships specifically for high school students to help you pay for your education.

How to Find Cosmetology Scholarships

Here’s how you can start your search:

Visit Your School’s Financial Aid Office

If you’re currently attending a high school or a cosmetology school, make an appointment with the financial aid office. They can provide listings of available scholarships and offer guidance specific to your needs.

Check with Professional Associations

Organizations like the Professional Beauty Association offer scholarships to students pursuing careers in cosmetology. These associations are treasure troves of resources and networking opportunities.

Online Scholarship Databases

Websites like Bold.org and Beauty School Directories can help you find scholarships specifically for cosmetology students. Make sure to create profiles and apply for scholarships that match your interests and qualifications.

Local Businesses and Salons

Some local salons and beauty businesses offer scholarships to support students in the community. Don’t hesitate to reach out and inquire about any available opportunities.

Social Media and Online Forums

Follow cosmetology schools and industry leaders on platforms like Instagram and Facebook. They often post about scholarship opportunities, deadlines, and application tips.

Tips for Winning Cosmetology Scholarships

Securing a scholarship can be competitive, but with the right approach, you can enhance your chances of success. Here are some tips to help you stand out:

Tailor Your Application

Make sure your application speaks directly to the scholarship criteria.

Showcase Your Skills

Include a portfolio of your work if possible. Showing your skill level and creativity can really make a difference.

Get Glowing Recommendations

Letters of recommendation from instructors, employers, or mentors in the industry can significantly strengthen your application. Choose recommenders who are familiar with your work ethic and passion for cosmetology.

Meet All Deadlines

Keep a meticulous calendar of deadlines for applications, recommendations, and portfolio submissions.

Students enrolled in beauty school can find a variety of scholarships to support their education. Don’t limit yourself to applying for just a cosmetology student scholarship. Apply for multiple scholarships of various types.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cosmetology Scholarships

How Can I Improve My Chances of Winning Cosmetology Scholarships?

You can do several things to improve your chances of winning college student scholarships. A couple of strategies you can use include:

• Fully answer the prompt when an essay is required 
• Check the format requirements for written responses 
• Make sure you meet all the eligibility requirements 

Beauty schools may offer tuition scholarships depending on a student’s financial need, academic achievements, artistic skills, or community involvement. Be sure to research the program you’re interested in.

What Is the Professional Beauty Association?

The Professional Beauty Association (PBA) is an organization that represents the interests of the beauty industry’s professionals, including hairstylists, makeup artists, estheticians, suppliers, and distributors. The PBA can provide networking opportunities and educational resources and offer scholarships to deserving cosmetology students.

Should I Go to Cosmetology or Barbering School?

Cosmetology schools focus on hair, skin, and nails. A cosmetology education will teach students how to style hair, the basics of anatomy, chemistry, hair coloring, facials, and nail services. Barbering schools, however, focus primarily on hair cutting, styling, and grooming for mostly male clients, including specialized techniques like shaving and facial hair trimming. Training, licensing requirements, and career opportunities differ greatly between the two. It’s ultimately your decision whether you choose one over the other.

Do Cosmetology School Costs Differ Across States?

Yes, the cost of attending cosmetology school can indeed vary widely across different states. This variation is due to several factors, including the cost of living in each state, the type of school (private, public, or specialized beauty school), and the length and depth of the program offered.

Scholarships for cosmetology help students prepare for a fulfilling and rewarding career in the beauty industry. If you’re pursuing a cosmetology education, apply for scholarships today!