Barber School Cost

• Community colleges and private technical schools offer barbering programs. Program costs vary significantly by school, from around $2,000 to more than $11,000. All reputable programs are geared towards preparing students to pass state licensing exams.
• On the higher end of the scale, at Dayton Barber College in Ohio, a private technical school, tuition is more than $11,000 for a 1,800 hour course, including books and fees. On the lower end of the scale, Atlas Barber College in New York City charges about $2,500 for a 17-week course, including books and fees.
• For in-state students, community colleges can offer significantly lower tuition costs for longer programs that result in a certificate or degree. The tuition at such programs can be comparable to the costs at the less expensive private barbering schools. At Callhoun Community College in Alabama, for example, tuition is about $1,000 a semester for a three-semester program and results in an associate's degree.
• Books costs for barbering programs are what students usually pay at community colleges, several hundred dollars per semester.

• Programs should help students meet state requirements for licensing. Courses should allow students to prepare for their exams, finish practical hours and leave with required in-class training.
• Classes include training in hair styling, perms, hair color, shaving, and nail and skincare. Students also study basic anatomy and learn how to meet sanitary requirements, like disinfecting combs and brushes.
• Students enrolled in associate degree programs may also have to take classes in required subjects like math and English.

• Typically, fees are around $50 to get and renew a license every two years.
• Exams are required to obtain a barber license, and exam fees vary by state, but are typically between $100-150. In Kentucky, fees are $125, and in Pennsylvania, exams cost $150.
• Technical colleges and community colleges don't typically offer housing for students, so expect typical expenses for housing and food.

• Participation in student financial aid programs varies by school.
• Barbering training programs may participate in federal financial aid programs, and offer students Pell grants and PLUS loans.
• Veteran's benefits may be extended to students at barbering schools.
• Check with individual program's financial aid offices for information about specific schools.
• The National Accrediting Commission of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences also offers some scholarships.

• To see schools accredited in each state, check with the National Accrediting Commission of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences.
• Ask the admissions office for the pass rates for state licensing exams and job placement rates for graduates of their program.

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