How to Pay for Beauty School

If you’re dreaming of a career in beauty, you’re not alone. Many students come to Michigan College of Beauty because they love the idea of helping others look and feel amazing — but before they can get started, there’s one big question on their minds:

“How am I going to pay for beauty school?”

The good news? You have options. Whether you’re fresh out of high school, changing careers, or following a lifelong passion, there are lots of ways to make your education affordable. From financial aid and scholarships to smart budgeting tips, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about paying for beauty school — and feeling confident about it.

Step 1: Understand What Financial Aid Really Means

When you hear “financial aid,” you might picture complicated forms or piles of paperwork. But really, it just means help paying for school — and it can come from a few different places.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Grants: Free money that you don’t have to pay back.
• Scholarships: Awards given based on need, talent, or passion (also free money!).
• Loans: Borrowed money that you repay later, usually after graduation.
• Payment Plans: A way to pay for school in smaller, more manageable chunks.

At Michigan College of Beauty, students often use a mix of these options. The key is finding what works best for you and your financial situation.

Step 2: Start with the FAFSA

The FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is your best friend when it comes to paying for school. It’s the form that helps you qualify for grants and federal loans — and it’s the first step for most students.

Here’s what you’ll need to do:

1. Gather a few documents: Things like your Social Security number, tax information, or your parents’ tax info (if you’re a dependent).
2. Head to the FAFSA website: You’ll fill out some questions about your finances. It takes a little time, but it’s worth it.
3. Add Michigan College of Beauty’s school code (014295): This makes sure your results go directly to the school’s financial aid office.
4. Submit and wait for your Student Aid Report: This will show what types of aid you qualify for — like Pell Grants, Direct Loans, or work-study programs.

Don’t worry if you’ve never filled it out before — the financial aid team at Michigan College of Beauty can help you through every step.

Step 3: Learn About Grants (a.k.a. Free Money!)

If you qualify for grants, that’s amazing — because grants don’t have to be repaid.

The most common grant is the Federal Pell Grant, which is given based on financial need. Many beauty school students qualify for it, and it can go a long way toward covering tuition and supplies.

You might also find state or local grants that support career training programs like cosmetology or esthetics. Some students even qualify for funding through workforce development programs or community organizations that help people learn new skills.

Pro tip: Apply early! Many grants have limited funds, and it’s first come, first served.

Step 4: Check Out Scholarships Just for Beauty Students

Scholarships aren’t just for straight-A students — there are tons designed specifically for people entering the beauty industry. Some are based on creativity, community involvement, or personal stories.

Here are a few types of scholarships you might look for:

• Brand or product scholarships: Big beauty brands (like OPI, Dermalogica, or Redken) often sponsor scholarships for students in cosmetology and esthetics.
• Industry association awards: Groups like the Professional Beauty Association (PBA) or Beauty Changes Lives run annual scholarship competitions.
• Local or school-based scholarships: Michigan College of Beauty sometimes partners with local organizations that help fund students who are passionate about starting their beauty careers.

The great thing about scholarships? They can stack — meaning you can apply for multiple ones and combine them!

Set aside some time to look for them, write a few applications, and share your story. You never know who will be inspired by your passion for beauty.

Step 5: Consider Federal Student Loans (If You Need Them)

Sometimes grants and scholarships don’t cover everything — and that’s okay. That’s where federal student loans can help.

There are two main types:

1. Direct Subsidized Loans: These are based on financial need, and the government pays the interest while you’re in school.
2. Direct Unsubsidized Loans: These are available to almost everyone, but interest starts building right away.

You don’t have to take out the full amount you’re offered. Borrow only what you need to fill the gap between your aid and your tuition.

Federal loans have flexible repayment plans, and you usually don’t start paying them back until after you graduate. Plus, they often come with lower interest rates than private loans — which makes them a smarter choice for most students.

Step 6: Ask About Payment Plans

If you don’t qualify for much financial aid, or if you prefer not to take out loans, Michigan College of Beauty offers another great option: a pay-as-you-go plan.

Instead of paying all at once, you can spread your tuition into smaller payments that are due over the course of your program. That can make things much more manageable, especially if you’re working while you’re in school.

And if you do decide to pay in full by the first day of class, the school even offers a 5% discount — a great little bonus for paying upfront.

Step 7: Explore Extra Ways to Fund Your Education

Sometimes students get creative when it comes to funding their beauty education — and you can, too! Here are a few ideas that other students have used:

Work Part-Time

Many students work a few hours a week while going to school. Whether it’s at a salon, a beauty supply store, or even a coffee shop, that extra income can help with living costs or school supplies.

Apply for Local Aid

Community programs, nonprofits, or workforce development centers sometimes offer funding for people training in vocational careers. It’s worth asking around — you might find resources you didn’t even know existed.

Ask About Employer Reimbursement

Some salons or spas help pay for part (or all) of a student’s tuition if they commit to working there after graduation. If you already have a salon in mind, it never hurts to ask!

Save Up Over Time

If you’re still planning your start date, even saving a little each month can make a big difference by the time classes begin.

Step 8: Make a Budget That Works for You

Paying for school isn’t just about getting aid — it’s about managing it wisely once you have it.

Here are a few tips for staying on top of your finances while you’re in beauty school:

• Track your spending. Know where your money goes each week. Apps like Mint or simple notes on your phone can help.
• Plan for supplies. Kits, tools, and uniforms are part of your investment — budget for them early so there are no surprises.
• Limit extra borrowing. Only take what you truly need to cover tuition and essentials.
• Use student discounts. Many beauty brands and supply stores offer deals for enrolled students.
• Ask questions. If something’s unclear, Michigan College of Beauty’s financial aid team is there to help you plan.

Managing your money during school teaches great habits — and those same skills can help you later when you’re running your own beauty business!

Step 9: Stay in Touch with Your Financial Aid Office

Your financial situation might change while you’re in school — and that’s totally normal. Maybe your job hours shift, or your family’s income changes. The financial aid team at Michigan College of Beauty is there to help you adjust your plan if needed.

They can:

• Review your aid package
• Help you reapply for the next school year
• Walk you through new funding options
• Explain how to stay eligible for aid

Don’t be shy about reaching out! Financial aid isn’t one-size-fits-all, and your advisors are there to help you find what works best for you.

Step 10: Remember Why You’re Doing This

It’s easy to get caught up in the numbers — tuition, fees, forms, deadlines — but it helps to take a step back and remember why you’re doing all this in the first place.

You’re training for a career that makes people feel confident and beautiful. You’re learning skills that can take you anywhere — from high-end salons and spas to running your own business. And most importantly, you’re investing in yourself.

Paying for beauty school might feel like a big challenge now, but it’s also one of the most rewarding investments you’ll ever make.

Bonus Tips for Making Beauty School Affordable

Here are a few extra ways to make your education go further:

• Carpool with classmates. Save on gas and parking costs.
• Buy gently used tools or kits. Some graduates sell theirs at a discount.
• Meal prep or bring snacks. Eating out adds up fast.
• Offer practice services to friends and family. It’s a great experience, and they might tip!
• Set small savings goals. Even $10 a week helps build a cushion for unexpected expenses.

Little steps like these can make a big difference over time.

Your Future in Beauty Starts Here

Financing your education might seem intimidating, but you’re not alone — and you don’t have to figure it out by yourself. The team at Michigan College of Beauty is here to walk you through every option and help you find a plan that fits your life.

Whether it’s filling out the FAFSA, applying for scholarships, or setting up a payment plan, there are always ways to make your dream career possible.

So take that first step.
Ask questions.
Explore your options.
And get ready to start a career that can be as creative, confident, and rewarding as you are.

Ready to begin your beauty journey?
Contact the Michigan College of Beauty admissions team today to learn more about financial aid* options and how to start your application. Your future in beauty is waiting — let’s make it happen!

*financial aid is only available to those who qualify