Finding a Good Beauty School.

Do you dream of becoming a cosmetologist? Or maybe you're just looking to improve your skills as a nail artist or esthetician. Whatever your reasons for considering beauty school, here are just a few tips for finding the best establishment for your personal or professional needs.

Photo credit: Cosmetologists, Inc.

1. Look for Accreditation 
Are they affiliated with the American Association of Cosmetology Schools (AACS)? Are they members of any professional associations like the Professional Beauty Association (PBA) or the Association of Cosmetology Salon Professionals (ACSP)? These kind of ties to the industry will prove their commitment to meeting national standards and staying up-to-date with both their curriculum and their technology.

2. Talk About Price 
Don't shy away from expensive schools just because you think you can't afford them. Some students can get financial aid; others can work out payment plans with accommodating administrations. You may also be able to save costs by signing up for certain internships or work-study programs that apply to the practical portion of your degree. Talk to the school's financial advisors to learn more.

3. Ask for Referrals
The next time you have an amazing experience at the salon, hairdresser or health clinic, ask the staff where they received their training. They should be more than happy to give you names if you explain that you're interested in attending cosmetology school as well. You might even receive inside information about the school's application process or what teachers to take when you arrive there!

Photo credit: Stealing Beauty.

4. Check Their Social Media Accounts
Most modern schools have a presence on Facebook or Twitter, so check out their accounts to see what kind of news matters to them. For example, are they tweeting about changing regulations in the industry? Are they posting notices and interesting links for students? How actively do they update?

5. Take a Tour
At the end of the day, there's no better way to judge a school than by physically going there and seeing things with your own eyes. Are the classrooms neat and well-equipped? Do the teachers seem friendly or harried? Take notice of the students, too. What do they look like? Could you see yourself among them? Could you see them as your future colleagues?

These are just a few things to keep in mind when looking for a beauty school. If you're serious about securing yourself a good education in cosmetology, only the best program will do.