Grants for Cosmetology Students
Cosmetology and beauty school students can access federal and state grants to cover tuition, tools, equipment, licensing exams, and living expenses. With 102 verified grant opportunities available, you can launch your beauty career without crushing debt.
Types of Cosmetology Grants
Tuition & Course Grants
Federal Pell Grants, state vocational grants, and beauty school-specific tuition assistance for cosmetology, esthetics, and nail technology programs.
Equipment & Tools Grants
Grants for salon equipment, shears, styling tools, mannequin heads, and professional supplies required for beauty school completion.
Licensing Exam Assistance
Grants and vouchers to help pay for state licensure exams, exam prep courses, and retesting fees for cosmetology licensing.
Living & Dependent Care Expenses
Grants for housing, childcare, transportation, and other living expenses while attending cosmetology school full-time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What grants can cosmetology students get?
Cosmetology students can access federal Pell Grants, Federal Work-Study (FWS), state vocational grants, and institutional grants from beauty schools. Many schools also offer scholarships and equipment grants. Women and minorities have access to additional grant programs. Federal grants require enrollment in an accredited cosmetology program.
How much can I receive in grants for cosmetology school?
Federal Pell Grants provide up to $7,395 for the 2024-2025 academic year (for full-time students). State vocational grants vary by state—some provide $2,000-$5,000 annually. Institution grants depend on your school's funding. Total aid depends on your financial need and the cost of your specific program (typically $12,000-$20,000 total for cosmetology programs).
Do I need to repay grants for cosmetology school?
No, grants are gift aid that never needs to be repaid. This is different from loans, which must be repaid with interest. Grants are based on financial need and eligibility. To keep receiving grants, you must maintain satisfactory academic progress (usually a 2.0+ GPA) and complete your program on schedule.
Are there grants specifically for beauty school?
Yes. Beyond federal/state grants, many cosmetology schools offer their own grants and scholarships. The Professional Beauty Association, Society of Professional Hair Care, and state beauty industry associations offer grant programs. Some grants are specifically for women, minorities, low-income students, or single parents pursuing cosmetology careers.
Can I get a grant for cosmetology equipment?
Yes. Many vocational grants include an equipment allowance within the total grant amount. Some schools have equipment grant programs or partner with tool suppliers to provide discounts. Contact your school's financial aid office about equipment grants, tool allowances, and student equipment purchasing discounts (schools often have agreements with suppliers).
Do I need to complete FAFSA for cosmetology grants?
Yes. To qualify for federal Pell Grants and other federal aid, you must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at FAFSA.gov. Submit it by your school's financial aid deadline. FAFSA is required even for schools that offer their own grants—it determines your financial need.
Are there grants for cosmetology licensing exam fees?
Some schools and states have grants or vouchers to help pay for state licensing exams (typically $100-$300). Ask your school if they provide exam fee assistance. Some grant programs include exam preparation courses. State boards of cosmetology may also have fee reduction programs for low-income candidates.
What if I'm returning to school for cosmetology as an adult?
Adult learners are eligible for the same federal grants (Pell, work-study, etc.) as traditional students. Many grants don't have age limits—they're based on financial need and enrollment status. Additionally, many workforce development programs offer grants specifically for adults returning to school for vocational training like cosmetology.
5 Steps to Get Cosmetology Grants
- Enroll in an Accredited Program: Select an accredited cosmetology school (check NACCAS accreditation). Your school must be accredited for you to receive federal grants. Contact admissions to complete enrollment and get your cost of attendance information.
- Complete the FAFSA: Go to FAFSA.gov and submit your Free Application for Federal Student Aid. You'll need your Social Security number, driver's license, tax information, and proof of U.S. citizenship. File by your school's deadline to maximize aid.
- Submit School Documents: Provide your school's financial aid office with any requested documents (verification forms, proof of dependency status, etc.). Ask about equipment grants and school-specific scholarships at the same time.
- Review Your Financial Aid Award: Your school will send an award letter showing grants, loans, and work-study. Grants are the "free" portion. Contact your aid office about additional equipment or exam fee assistance programs.
- Maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress: Keep your GPA at 2.0 or higher and complete your program on schedule. Losing satisfactory progress status will suspend your grant eligibility until you regain good standing.
Key Resources for Cosmetology Students
FAFSA.gov
Complete your Free Application for Federal Student Aid online. Required to apply for federal and state grants for cosmetology school.
Federal Student Aid
Official government source for Pell Grants, federal work-study, and other financial aid for vocational students.
NACCAS (Accrediting Commission)
Find accredited cosmetology schools. Only accredited programs qualify for federal financial aid.
Professional Beauty Association
Industry association offering scholarships, grants, and resources for beauty professionals and students.
102 Verified Grant Opportunities
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National Aeronautics and Space Administration
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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - ERA
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NCA Contracting
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National Institutes of Health
View Grant Details →Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award (NRSA) Individual Fellowship for Students at Institutions with NIH-Funded Institutional Predoctoral Dual-Degree Training Programs (Parent F30)
National Institutes of Health
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National Institutes of Health
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National Institutes of Health
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