Grants & Scholarships For Cosmetology Students [Updated 2024]
If you’ve always dreamed of becoming a licensed cosmetologist but you aren’t sure how you will pay for it, you are in luck! Grants* are available for qualifying students who want to get an education in cosmetology. By applying for grants, you can get help paying for your education.
For many, getting started is the hardest part. We’ve taken the time to compile a list of grants for cosmetology students who qualify that you can use to help fund your education:
Beauty Changes Lives Scholarships
Since it was established in 2013, Beauty Changes Lives has awarded millions in scholarships to cosmetology, esthetics, massage, nail, and makeup students who qualified. You can find their current scholarship offerings on their scholarship calendar with more information on how to apply, who the scholarship is for, the amount given, and how many winners there are in each round.
Aurie J. Gosnell Scholarship
Every year, four students are awarded the $1,250 Aurie J. Gosnell Scholarship through NIC Testing. You can find an application for the scholarship on the main page of their website along with a list of things you’ll need to apply, including three letters of personal reference and a 250 word personal essay.
Professional Beauty Association Scholarships
The Professional Beauty Association is a non-profit group representing those in the beauty industry. They list several scholarship opportunities the organization offers, as well as scholarships from outside sources. Scholarships are available to those currently enrolled in cosmetology, barbering, or esthetics programs. You can find all the requirements on their scholarship page.
The Great Scholarship Program By Great Clips
Sponsored by Great Clips, this program connects applicants with local salon owners for scholarship opportunities. If you receive a scholarship through The Great Scholarship Program, a Great Clips salon owner in your area will reach out to you. In addition to applying for a scholarship, filling out the application will add you to the Great Clips Talent Community, also known as The Stylisthood.
Beauty School Directory Scholarship
Qualifying students enrolled in cosmetology, barbering, esthetics, makeup artistry, and many other beauty fields are eligible for the Beauty School Directory scholarship of $2,500. You can apply once per session on their website.
Joe Francis Haircare Scholarship
Joe and Flo Francis were the first to franchise in the beauty industry as barbers. Their influence in beauty is far reaching, and continues to impact many lives now with the Joe Francis Haircare Scholarship. Since its founding in 1994 this foundation seeks to help students who are looking to build successful long-term careers in the beauty industry.
American Association of Cosmetology Schools ACE Program
This American Cosmetology Education (ACE) scholarship is for students interested in pursuing a career in cosmetology.. This grant focuses on highly motivated individuals who are looking to make an impact in the world of beauty.. You can apply for this scholarship on their website. You do not need to currently be enrolled in beauty school to qualify! .
Pell Grants
Pell Grants are federal grants that are given to students through their institutions, based on financial needs. These cosmetology grants are for lower income students. Family income, size of household, assets and other family members attending college are considered.
Buy Rite’s Annual Beauty School Scholarship
In support of the growing beauty industry, Buy Rite Beauty looks to reward cosmetology students who exemplify their core beliefs. Applicants must be currently accepted or enrolled in beauty school and write an essay about their most meaningful achievement and how it relates to their future career in the beauty industry. Visit their website to see more detailed instructions on how to apply.
Keller International Scholarship
Awarding $1,000 scholarships to qualifying barber and cosmetology students, Keller International looks to support the educational journey of those in the beauty industry. This scholarship gives you the opportunity to show off your creativity by submitting a 2 minute video on what makes you unique! You can see all the requirements for the scholarship on their website.
Are you ready to attend beauty school? Apply for the grants and scholarships listed above for the chance to fund your dream career. If you have any questions about the application process, call our admissions office at a phone number listed above. If you’re excited and ready to get started, you can apply today!
*Financial aid is available to those who qualify.
