How Much Does Esthetician School Cost?

Do you have a passion for skincare? Do you find yourself reveling in the countless services out there that promise to turn back the clock, reverse signs of aging, and restore healthy, youthful skin? If so, a career in esthetics could be calling your name. But how much does esthetician school cost?

Join us for a complete guide on how much esthetician school costs, the benefits of earning your license, and how to pay for it without going broke. 

How much does esthetician school cost?

How much you’ll pay for esthetician school depends on several factors. Let’s explore what these factors are and how they’ll impact your costs:

Location

As with most things, location plays a major role in the price of esthetician school. You can expect to pay more in metropolitan regions and high-cost-of-living areas than more suburban locations. 

Tuition fees

The average tuition for esthetics programs can range from $3,000 to $15,000. Private beauty academies tend to charge more than a community college or vocational school. Exclusive, brand-name training centers like Aveda and Paul Mitchell can cost over $20,000. However, it may offer advanced, specialized training to give you a competitive edge in the job market.

Keep in mind that you may also need to pay additional course fees and registration fees, as well as payments for exams, certificates, and licensure. A part-time job might help you cover these costs. 

Learning materials

Most esthetician schools require students to purchase a kit containing books, tools, and products to use throughout training. Some programs may include these materials in tuition costs, but most do not. 

Program length

Each state mandates the amount of training required to become an esthetician. This time can span from 600 to 1,500 hours. Generally speaking, longer training equals higher expenses. Full-time students may complete esthetician school within four to six months, while part-time students or those in online courses may be enrolled for a year or more, increasing their costs throughout the academic year.

Related: How Much Is Cosmetology School?

How to pay for esthetician school

Ok, so you know how much esthetician school may cost, but if you dream of helping clients achieve the best skin of their lives, you’ll figure out how to pay for training before offering world-class services to the masses. Here are a few financial aid options to consider: 

Full payment

Paying out of pocket may feel impossible, but many esthetician schools offer discounts for students who pay up-front. If you have adequate savings or financial support from your family, this may be the ideal way to cover the costs of esthetician school. 

Scholarships

Some esthetics schools and professional organizations offer money for students looking to earn their degree or certificate and pursue their esthetician license. These scholarships can help you cover class fees, tuition, and associated costs. 

Student loans

Both federal and private student loans can temporarily cover the up-front costs of esthetician training, but in order to apply, your school must meet various criteria. Do your research to ensure you’re attending an accredited training program recognized by your state board. Reach out to the admissions office if you’re unsure about eligibility.

It’s also important to note that certain predatory loans may leave you with a massive financial burden after graduation, so understand the conditions of your loan to avoid major issues in the future. 

Grants

Grants are payments that can be used for educational purposes but don’t need to be paid back like student loans. For example, the federal Pell Grant offers financial aid for low-income students. Some of these programs require you to maintain certain standards throughout training, such as a solid attendance record and adequate testing scores.

Related: How Long Is Esthetician School?

Is esthetician school worth it?

Completing esthetician school may open the door to lucrative career opportunities in the skincare industry. If you ask us, esthetician school is definitely worth it. Here’s why: 

Career growth opportunities

Estheticians are in high demand, so you can look forward to exciting career opportunities after graduation. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for estheticians is promising, with job growth expected to jump by 10% for estheticians in the coming years, eclipsing the average for all industries at a mere 4%. 

Rewarding and fulfilling work

For many estheticians, school is a stepping stone to a fulfilling career in the industry. You will have the opportunity to help clients revitalize their skin, resolve aesthetic concerns, and unwind in salons, spas, med spas, doctor’s offices, and skincare clinics. 

Earning potential

The average esthetician salary is about $40,000 per year, but the sky is the limit. As you gain experience, you may specialize in niche services or luxury treatments to increase your ROI.

Or, you might choose to pursue additional training to become a master esthetician. Eventually, you may decide to go solo and build an empire of your own. In any case, the path is clear, and it begins with esthetician school. 

Flexibility

As an esthetician, you can enjoy a flexible schedule that allows for optimal work-life balance. Depending on your establishment, you may set your own schedule, harnessing greater control over your daily life. There are even growing opportunities for virtual skincare and consulting. 

Join Bosses in Beauty and elevate your career in esthetics!

Bosses in Beauty is here to provide the best education and information to current and future estheticians around the globe. Reach out today to learn more about our career programs!