Can I Get Financial Aid for Cosmetology School?

If you’re dreaming of a future in beauty, you may be asking the same question many students ask first: “Can I get financial aid for cosmetology school?” The good news is yes—many students do qualify for financial aid*, and there are multiple funding options available to help you make your education more affordable.

At Salon Success Academy, we believe finances shouldn’t stand in the way of your goals. Whether you want to become a cosmetologist, esthetician, barber, or pursue another beauty career path, understanding your financial aid options is a key part of getting started. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from the FAFSA® to grants, scholarships, payment plans, and more.

*financial aid is only available to those who qualify

Why Financial Aid Matters for Your Beauty Education

Cosmetology can be an exciting, creative field with strong career prospects in California and beyond. But even though beauty programs cost less than traditional four-year degrees, it still requires an investment of time and money. Financial aid helps reduce your out-of-pocket costs, makes tuition manageable, and helps you focus on your training—not the stress of paying for school.

At Salon Success Academy, we’re committed to supporting you through the financial aid process, and the very first step is the most important one…

Start Here: Fill Out the FAFSA®

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) is the key to unlocking almost every form of federal financial aid. This includes:

• Pell Grants
• Federal student loans (subsidized and unsubsidized)
• Federal work-study
• Eligibility for many state-level grants and aid programs

Even if you’re not sure whether you’ll qualify, you should still complete the FAFSA®. Many students who assume they aren’t eligible are surprised when they receive aid.

Why Salon Success Academy Requires It

We strongly encourage every applicant to use the FAFSA® because it’s the only way to know exactly which federal aid you qualify for. Completing it early helps you:

• Plan ahead
• Understand your financial aid package
• Avoid delays in starting classes
• Get the maximum amount of aid available

FAFSA® School Codes by Campus

When filling out the FAFSA®, you’ll need to enter the correct school code based on the campus you plan to attend. Use the code below for your chosen location:

Corona/Fontana/Redlands Campuses
School Code: 013095
2097 Compton Ave Suite #201
Corona, CA 92881

Upland/West Covina Campuses
School Code: 007203
1385 E Foothill Blvd
Upland, CA 91786

Riverside Campus
School Code: 014599
210 W Highland Ave
San Bernardino, CA 92405

Entering the correct code ensures that your financial aid information is sent directly to the campus you want to attend.

Types of Financial Aid Available to Cosmetology Students

Financial aid isn’t one-size-fits-all. Students may qualify for a combination of grants, loans, scholarships, and school-based payment plans. Here’s a breakdown of the most common options available at Salon Success Academy.

1. Federal Pell Grants

Pell Grants are one of the best financial aid resources because they do not need to be repaid as long as you meet the eligibility requirements.

Pell Grant eligibility is determined by:

• Your financial need
• Your FAFSA® information
• Enrollment status (full-time or part-time)
• Program length

Because cosmetology programs are often completed in under two years, Pell Grants can significantly reduce tuition costs for qualifying students.

2. Federal Student Loans

If grants don’t cover your full tuition, federal student loans can help fill the gap. These loans offer lower interest rates and more flexible repayment options than private loans.

You may qualify for:

• Subsidized Loans: The government pays interest while you’re in school.
• Unsubsidized Loans: Interest accrues while in school, but payments can be deferred.

Federal loans are often recommended over private loans because of their benefits, such as income-driven repayment plans and potential loan forgiveness options (depending on career path).

3. Federal Work-Study

Some students qualify for work-study, which allows you to earn money through part-time work while in school. These positions are often flexible and designed to fit around your class schedule.

4. Scholarships

Scholarships can come from:

• Local organizations
• Beauty brands
• Nonprofits
• Salon Success Academy’s own scholarship programs

We regularly encourage students to apply for as many scholarships as possible—many go unused simply because students assume they won’t win.

5. State Grants and Additional Aid

Depending on your residency and eligibility, you may also qualify for:

• State-based grants
• Workforce development funding
• Veterans education benefits
• Other community or government programs

Our financial aid team can help point you toward any additional opportunities you may qualify for.

6. School-Based Payment Plans

Even with financial aid, you may want additional support to manage your tuition. Salon Success Academy offers payment plan options that allow you to make smaller, more manageable payments over time.

These plans are especially helpful for students:

• Who need to cover remaining balances after aid
• Who don’t want to take on additional loans
• Who want as much flexibility as possible during school

How to Apply for Financial Aid Step-by-Step

If this is your first time applying for financial aid, don’t worry—we walk students through it every day. Here is the process in simple terms:

Step 1: Create Your FAFSA® Account

Go to the official Federal Student Aid website and create your FSA ID. This will allow you to log in, sign documents, and update your information later.

Step 2: Fill Out the FAFSA®

Take your time and answer everything accurately. You’ll need:

• Your Social Security number
• Tax information (yours or your parents’, depending on dependency status)
• Driver’s license (optional)
• School code for your chosen campus

If you need help, our admissions and financial aid teams can guide you through it.

Step 3: Add Salon Success Academy’s School Code

Use the correct code based on campus:

• 013095 – Corona/Fontana/Redlands
• 007203 – Upland/West Covina
• 014599 – Riverside

Step 4: Review Your Student Aid Report (SAR)

Once submitted, you’ll receive a summary of your FAFSA® information. Review it for accuracy.

Step 5: Meet With Our Financial Aid Office

Our team will walk you through:

• What aid you qualify for
• Your estimated remaining costs
• Optional payment plan details
• Next steps to officially begin your program

This meeting can be done in person or virtually, depending on your preference.

Do I Have to Qualify for Need-Based Aid to Attend Beauty School?

No! While Pell Grants are based on financial need, many other financial aid options—such as unsubsidized federal loans—are not dependent on household income.

You don’t need perfect credit, a strong financial background, or savings to begin your cosmetology journey. Many students start with little to no family contribution and still find multiple ways to afford school.

Why the FAFSA® Is Important Even if You Think You Won’t Qualify

You should always submit a FAFSA® because:

• You may qualify for more than expected
• Some scholarships require FAFSA® completion
• Federal loans are only available to students who submit it
• It confirms your enrollment eligibility
• It helps avoid delays in starting your program

Most importantly? There’s no cost to apply. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain.

Financial Aid Eligibility Requirements

To receive federal financial aid, you must:

• Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen
• Have a high school diploma or recognized equivalent
• Enroll in an eligible program
• Maintain satisfactory academic progress (SAP)
• Not be in default on federal student loans

Salon Success Academy’s programs are approved for federal financial aid.

How Salon Success Academy Helps You Through the Process

We know financial aid can feel overwhelming—especially if you’ve never filled out a FAFSA® before. That’s why our knowledgeable team is here to support you every step of the way.

We help students with:

• Completing the FAFSA®
• Understanding financial aid award letters
• Comparing funding options
• Creating a personalized financial plan
• Preparing for enrollment

You’re never alone in the process. We want you to feel confident, supported, and ready to begin your training.

Invest in a Future You Love

Cosmetology school isn’t just an education—it’s an investment in your future. Whether you dream of becoming a stylist, salon owner, esthetician, barber, or beauty entrepreneur, financial aid can help make your goals more accessible.

With the right support and resources, pursuing your passion doesn’t have to be a financial burden.

Ready to Begin Your Beauty Journey?

If you’re considering cosmetology school, financial aid should never hold you back. Salon Success Academy is here to help you every step of the way—from your FAFSA® to your first day of class.

• Start by filling out your FAFSA® and using the correct school code for your preferred campus.
• Then schedule a meeting with our financial aid team to review your options.

Your future in beauty is waiting—and we can’t wait to help you get started.

Contact Salon Success Academy today to learn more about financial aid, upcoming start dates, and how to enroll.