Top 5 Financing Opportunities for Cosmetology Students in the USA

July. 16,2025

Explore the top five financing options for aspiring cosmetologists in the USA. This article highlights prominent scholarships and grants that support education and growth in the beauty industry, aimed at helping students reduce costs and advance their careers. Learn about industry-supported funding programs like ACE, Sports Clips, and others designed to foster talent and creativity in cosmetology.

Top 5 Financing Opportunities for Cosmetology Students in the USA

Top 5 Funding Options for Cosmetology Education in the USA

Leading Funding Opportunities for Cosmetology Students in the USA

Cosmetology encompasses the art and science of beauty treatments. If you aspire to help others transform their appearance and enjoy a creative career, becoming a cosmetologist could be ideal. Students interested in pursuing cosmetology have multiple specialization options, and numerous grants are available to support this career path. These include areas like:

1. Hygiene and Sanitation Training- Maintaining cleanliness and sanitization is fundamental in all beauty services.

Top 5 Funding Opportunities for Cosmetology Students in the USA

Proper hygiene of tools, equipment, and personal care are crucial components taught across beauty schools.

2. Hair Styling and Color Courses- This training covers shampooing, coloring, and scalp treatments tailored to individual needs influenced by lifestyle and climate conditions.

3. Aesthetic Treatments and Hair Removal- This certification includes skin care procedures, eyebrow shaping, tattooing, and makeup styling, emphasizing safe and effective techniques.

4. Skin Care Certification- Courses focus on skin assessments, massages, and tailored treatments for issues like acne, pigmentation, and uneven skin tone.

5. Nail Care Programs- Nail health is often overlooked despite daily growth. These programs cover manicure, pedicure, nail art, shaping, and massage for both hands and feet.

6. Salon Business Management- This training provides essential skills on managing finances, customer relations, and operational aspects of running a successful salon.

Cosmetology Funding Resources

The Beauty Changes Lives Foundation (BCL), established by the American Association of Cosmetology Schools (AACS), supports aspiring professionals through scholarships and grants. Supported by industry leaders, BCL promotes cosmetology as a rewarding career. Partnering with institutions like Empire Beauty School and Walla Walla Community College, students can access both federal and private funding options. BCL offers seven scholarships across beauty and wellness fields, including two advanced awards in cosmetology and makeup.

Here are the top 5 cosmetology funding options:

  • ACE Grant- Designed to boost early career development, this grant encourages talented individuals to enter the cosmetology field.
  • Sports Clips ACE Scholarship- Offers $1,000 to 15 students enrolled in partner schools, sponsored by Sports Clips and American Crew.
  • The Great Scholarship- Named after Alice Madden Barton, this scholarship supports students pursuing cosmetology and barbering, valid in the US and Canada.
  • Beauty Schools Directory Scholarship- Provides $2,500 for students nationwide, awarded four times annually.
  • Joe Francis Haircare Scholarship- Established in 1994, this supports students facing financial challenges who aim to pursue cosmetology careers.

Cosmetology offers dynamic opportunities for growth, creativity, and innovation. Industry-funded grants assist students in minimizing educational costs and foster skill development, making it an attractive career for dedicated and creative individuals.