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Pursuing a career in cosmetology is a big decision, and for most students, cost is the first practical question. The good news: most students don’t pay full cost out of pocket. Federal financial aid, scholarships, grants, and flexible payment plans can all help make tuition manageable – the right mix depends on your eligibility and the school you choose.
This guide walks through the financial aid options available to cosmetology students, including federal loans, grants, and scholarships, so you can plan with confidence.
Cost of Living
Cosmetology school students often have to juggle work-life balance and set aside time to study and attend classes, which is the priority. If you live in a big city, your cost of living will be more expensive. The cost of living in Texas is currently lower than the national average. Students can fare reasonably well with an affordable cost of living.
Cosmetology School Scholarships
Scholarships are one of the most valuable ways to pay for cosmetology school, since – unlike loans – they don’t need to be repaid. Scholarship opportunities generally fall into a few categories:
School-based scholarships offered directly by cosmetology schools based on merit, need, or program.
Industry and manufacturer scholarships from beauty brands and professional associations.
State and local scholarships, which vary by location and are worth researching for your area.
Talk with your prospective school’s financial aid office about which scholarship opportunities you may qualify for – availability and amounts vary and are not guaranteed.
Want to know what aid you may qualify for? Ogle School’s financial aid team can walk you through scholarship, grant, and loan options for your situation.
EXPLORE FINANCIAL RESOURCESFinancial Aid
Most cosmetology schools have options that provide financial aid so cosmetology students can alleviate their workload, focus on their studies, and afford the cost of tuition.
Tuition costs, with the help of financial aid, make the dream of attending beauty schools feasible for all students.
If your dream is to follow a career in beauty services, investing in your career is attainable. Before we dive into your financial aid choices, let’s review what students are paying for when their goal is to become licensed cosmetologists.

Federal Student Loans
Federal student loans are one of the most common ways cosmetology students fund their education. These are funds provided by the U.S. Department of Education that must be repaid with interest, and they come in a few forms:
- DIRECT Subsidized Loans – available to students who qualify, interest-free while in school, with payments starting six months after graduation.
- DIRECT Unsubsidized Loans – available to all students, with interest accruing while in school.
- DIRECT PLUS Loans – available only to parents of dependent students.
Private Student Loans – typically considered only after federal loan options are exhausted; shop around for the lowest interest rates.
Ready to talk through your options? Request information and an Ogle School admissions advisor will walk you through cost, aid, and enrollment.
REQUEST INFOWhat’s included in beauty school costs:
- Students will learn basic and advanced techniques.
- Students will master coloring techniques, such as balayage styling and more.
- Quality schools will have facilities equipped with industry-standard beauty equipment.
- Learn cosmetic industry safety procedures.
- Specialize as a nail technician, esthetician, or hairstylist.
- Advising and counsel from beauty industry professionals.
- Extensive hours of training.
For those who qualify for financial aid, help is provided. The ideal way to fund your education is by being awarded money you don’t have to pay back. This comes in the form of Pell grants or scholarships.
Grants for cosmetology school are money given to students so they can pay for their tuition. The money awarded is based on financial need, and students do not have to pay it back. If you’re a veteran, you should qualify for financial education benefits.
What Will You Be Studying?
Students at Ogle School will access a digital curriculum where they will learn visually via video demonstrations and academically through reading material, industry definitions, introductory chemistry, and step-by-step instructions.
Learning cosmetology, including hair styling, makeup, coloring techniques, and more, will be intuitive with learning through digital content and hands-on experience. If you’re studying facial training and are striving to be an esthetician, our online content will prepare you for your hands-on training with other peers and real clients. Plus, our staff will walk you through the material and help you gain a deeper understanding of working at a salon or spa or becoming a salon owner.
Students can create a flexible schedule that is tailored to their needs. At Ogle, we foster a learning environment that is conducive to success!
Getting an Exceptional Education at an Affordable Price
Choosing an esteemed, trustworthy, and certified cosmetology school that produces optimal results should be first on every student’s checklist when selecting a school. A quality education will set the tone for a promising career.
Are you ready to take the next step? Learn about Ogle School’s admission requirements and all about the scholarship resources available. Our team is here to answer all of your questions.
FAQ: Paying for Cosmetology School
Certainly! You have the option to make recurring payments or one-time payments.
Typically, students will get a student aid offer after completing the application process and the college determines eligibility.
Yes, you can always request a deferment on student loans if you are financially eligible. We recommend, however, consulting with your lender before you defer and continue making payments that you can afford.
Yes. Scholarships are available through individual schools, beauty industry organizations, and state or local programs. Eligibility and amounts vary, so it’s best to ask your prospective school’s financial aid office directly.