You’ve been dreaming and planning to attend beauty school. You’re dotting the i’s and crossing the t’s with every ounce of excitement until you realize you have to figure out how to pay for it.
Accredited cosmetology schools can cost anywhere from $15,000 to $20,000+.
You may feel some sticker shock seeing these numbers, but don’t panic! If tuition is a financial setback for you and you have been looking into tuition hacks to reduce your tuition costs, you’re at the right place. Keep reading to learn five ways you can reduce your tuition fees.
1. Complete Your FAFSA Early
As your first line of attack to cutting back on college tuition costs, you should complete your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) accurately and early.
Many cosmetology school students don’t realize they are eligible to complete the FAFSA for tuition financial assistance. Your income and other factors determine your eligibility but could provide you with an opportunity to lower your tuition fees.
It’s helpful to note that most aid is first-come, first-serve. So, submit your accurate information early to increase your chance of receiving financial assistance.
2. Stay in Contact With the Financial Aid Office
You have no better advocate for financial assistance than your school’s financial support office.
This team can help find unique or specialized financial scholarships for your beauty school education before and during the school year.
Each year you may need new scholarships, so it’s valuable to have a strong relationship with the financial assistance team to find these opportunities and set up payment plans according to your financial position.
3. Investigate Local Government Grants
The best way to uncover tuition savings is by intentionally searching for scholarships and grants from various organizations and entities.
An easy place to start is checking your city and local governments for these potential opportunities. You can reach out to your city’s education department or a local family government agency. Nonprofits or religious organizations in your area might have scholarships available as well.
4. Tap Into Your Favorite Brands
A fun way to find grants and scholarships is by connecting with companies and brands you already use!
Many of your favorite brands offer scholarships, such as OPI Nail Polish or Redken. Start digging into these brands you regularly use to see what scholarships may be available to students paying for school tuition.
You may be surprised by which brands can help you lower your tuition costs as you support their business.
5. Pay Any Loan Interest Early
If you need to take out a small student loan after applying your scholarships and grants to your tuition, consider paying any loan interest monthly.
Making interest-only payments on your loan will save you money in the long run, leaving you a smaller amount to pay off after completing school.
Use These Hacks to Lower Your Tuition Costs
Tuition costs can feel overwhelming and intimidating as you prepare to start cosmetology school. Thankfully, it doesn’t have to be!
There are several options for grants, scholarships, and financial assistance to help you pay for school and live out your dream.
Do not wait to take your first step! Contact us today to talk through your options and find support in getting started. (Financial aid and scholarships may be available to students who qualify.)
