July 3, 2025
How Much Does Cosmetology School Cost?
If you’ve been dreaming of a career in beauty—whether it’s behind the chair, behind the scenes, or even behind your own salon desk—you’ve probably started wondering: how much does cosmetology school actually cost? And more importantly, is it worth it?
At Phagans School of Hair Design, we know that investing in your education is a big decision. We also know it can feel overwhelming trying to piece together the numbers on your own. That’s why we’re breaking it all down for you here, with real insights into the cost of attending Phagans, what you’ll get in return, and how to make it work financially.
What Makes Our Program Unique?
Let’s start with what you’re actually getting. Our Full Cosmetology Program is more than just hair. It’s a dual licensure program that combines Hair Design, Nail Technology, and Esthetics, giving you a well-rounded education and more career opportunities once you graduate.
You’ll train across three specialties:
- Hair Design: Cutting, coloring, styling, chemical treatments, and more.
- Esthetics: Skincare, facials, waxing, makeup, and product knowledge.
- Nail Technology: Manicures, pedicures, acrylics, nail art, and sanitation.
Altogether, that’s 1,835 hours of hands-on training—preparing you not only to pass your state board exams, but to thrive in a real-world salon or spa setting.
So… How Much Does It Cost?
While tuition may vary slightly from year to year or depending on your specific situation, here’s a general breakdown of what you can expect:
Estimated Costs at Phagans:
- Tuition: Around $20,000 – $22,000
- Books & Supplies: Approximately $1,800 – $2,500
- Application & Enrollment Fees: Usually $100 – $200
- State Board Licensing Fees: Roughly $300 – $400
Total estimated cost: $22,000 – $25,000
These numbers are estimates, but they’re based on real figures from our students and what’s included in our program: textbooks, professional kits, skincare and nail products, uniforms, and all the tools you’ll need to succeed in class and on the floor.
What’s Included in That Price?
Here’s the thing: you’re not just paying for classes. You’re getting:
- A complete education in hair, skin, and nails
- State board preparation
- *Hands-on practice with real clients in our salon
- Professional kits for each subject area
- Career support and job placement assistance
- Expert instructors who are licensed and experienced in the field
- A creative, inclusive community of beauty lovers just like you
We make sure you’re fully equipped to step into the beauty industry confidently—and with options. Whether you aspire to be a stylist, esthetician, nail artist, makeup artist, or an entrepreneur, our dual program can provide the foundation to achieve it all.
Can I Get Financial Aid?
Yes! And we’ll walk you through every step of the process.
Phagans School of Hair Design is accredited, which means our students are eligible to apply for federal *financial aid, including:
- Pell Grants (which don’t need to be paid back)
- Subsidized and Unsubsidized Stafford Loans
- Parent PLUS Loans for dependent students
- Work-Study options, depending on availability
We know financial aid can be confusing, especially if you’re applying for the first time. That’s why our Admissions and Financial Aid team is here to help you fill out your FAFSA, understand your award letter, and figure out what your monthly payments will look like, if any.
Do You Offer Payment Plans?
Yes, we do.
If you’re not using financial aid or if you want to cover some of your tuition out of pocket, we offer payment plans to help spread the cost out over time.
We’ll work with you to find a plan that fits your needs, your schedule, and your goals—because we believe finances shouldn’t be a barrier to your future.
Are There Scholarships?
Absolutely. While scholarships vary based on the time of year and eligibility requirements, there are options available both through Phagans and external sources.
Some ideas to explore:
- Scholarships from beauty product brands and organizations
- Community foundation or nonprofit programs
- Competitions and contests for aspiring beauty professionals
- Scholarships specific to veterans, single parents, and first-gen students
Ask our Financial Aid team for help—we’ll guide you to opportunities that could lower your overall cost.
Is Cosmetology School Worth the Cost?
We might be a little biased, but here’s what we know:
- Beauty professionals are in demand. Salons, spas, and beauty businesses need trained and licensed experts.
- A cosmetology education can lead to multiple career paths: stylist, esthetician, nail artist, salon manager, beauty influencer, product educator, and more.
- You can start earning shortly after graduation. Many of our students begin working while they’re still in school, especially in the final months when they gain real-world experience on the floor.
- You’ll graduate with more than one license, giving you flexibility and options as your career evolves.
Real Talk: How Do I Plan for the Cost?
Here’s a quick checklist to help you prepare:
- Contact Admissions to schedule a tour and get current tuition info
- Fill out your FAFSA (we’ll help!)
- Explore your financial aid options and payment plans
- Ask about upcoming scholarships or promotional programs
- Plan your start date and decide if you want full-time or part-time
- Stay in touch with your advisor—we’re here to help you every step of the way
Let’s Build Your Future Together
At Phagans School of Hair Design, we believe your future in the beauty industry should be bold, empowered, and totally within reach. Yes, cosmetology school is an investment, but it can pay off in more ways than one. Financially, creatively, professionally, and personally.
Whether you’ve been thinking about enrolling for months or just started exploring, we’d love to talk with you. Let’s figure out the numbers together—and get you one step closer to the career you’ve been dreaming of.
Ready to get started?
Reach out to our Admissions team today to learn more about tuition, financial aid, and enrollment dates.
*All services provided by students under the supervision of licensed professionals.
*Financial Aid is available to those who qualify.
