Frequently Asked Questions

We’re happy you are considering enrolling in one of our beauty programs! Choosing a beauty school to attend is a big decision, and every student has questions. This FAQ page will hopefully answer some of your big questions, so you can move forward confidently in your educational decisions. As always, you are welcome to contact our team if you have more questions.

Frequently Asked Questions about Our California Beauty School

How do I apply to Salon Success Academy?

You can begin the application process for our Barbering, Cosmetology, Esthetician, Nail Technology or Make-Up Designory/ MUD Makeup programs by calling 1-877-987-HAIR (4247) to set up your initial school visit and appointment. After you complete your campus visit, our Admissions specialist will sit down with you to discuss class schedules, costs, and the financial aid opportunities that may be available to you. We will walk you through the application process and show you how to complete the necessary paperwork.

How do I apply for Financial Aid at Salon Success Academy?

Financial aid is available to those who qualify. To begin the process, fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®). More financial aid options and information are available on our Financial Aid page.

How does the school prepare students to sit for the State Board exam?

We prepare our students to sit for the California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology exams by offering them plenty of opportunities to practice their skills, receive practical training, and participate in mock exams. Check out our blog post about 10 Tips to Pass Your State Board Test.

What services are offered at the student beauty salon?

Our salons and spas offer a wide array of services available to the general public, including basic haircuts, full-color transformations, facials, men’s grooming, and nail care. Each service is performed by a Salon Success Academy student, under the supervision of a certified instructor. For more information about our services, visit our salon services page.

How can I schedule a visit to one of your schools?

Schedule a visit at any of our six campuses by calling 1-877-987-HAIR (4247). During your campus visit, you’ll meet with an admissions representative to discuss the programs available at Salon Success Academy, visit our classrooms, and check out our student salons.

What does a barber do?

A barber shampoos, cuts, colors, and styles hair, for mostly male clients. A barber also provides men’s grooming services, such as facial shaving.

What does a cosmetologist do?

A cosmetologist provides hair, skin, and nail services in a salon or spa. They cut, color, treat, and style hair and may also provide facials, and give manicures and pedicures.

What does an esthetician do?

An esthetician educates clients about proper skincare and provides services such as facials, waxing, and makeup applications. Estheticians are also employed in medical offices, helping dermatologists treat skin conditions.

What does a manicurist do?

A manicurist cleans, trims, files, and polishes the nails of the hands and feet. They also massage and moisturize hands and feet, reduce calluses and rough skin, and teach clients about proper nail care and current trends and fashion.

How long are your programs?
  • The Barbering program is 1,000 hours and meets all California state standards for licensing. The full-time program can be completed in as little as 30 weeks, and the part-time program can be completed in as little as 50 weeks.*
  • The Cosmetology program is 1,200 hours and meets all California state standards for licensing. The full-time program can be completed in as little as 36 weeks, and the part-time program can be completed in as little as 63 weeks.*
  • The Esthetician program is 680 hours and meets all California state standards for licensing. The full-time program can be completed in as little as 21 weeks, and the part-time program can be completed in as little as 36 weeks.*
  • The Manicuring/Nail Care program is 400 hours and also meets all California state standards for licensing. The full-time program can be completed in as little as 12 weeks, and the part-time program can be completed in as little as 21 weeks.*
  • The Make-Up Designory/ MUD Makeup program includes an 84-hour course that can be completed in 10 days of classroom training.

*Program length varies based on attendance and fulfillment of practical requirements. Please call to speak with an admissions representative to learn more about specific program requirements.

Is Salon Success Academy accredited?

Yes! Salon Success Academy is accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences (NACCAS). Accreditation ensures the highest standards in cosmetology education. All of our campuses have achieved the highest level of recognition from NACCAS. We are also recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, and are proud to offer financial aid to those who qualify.

Questions and Answers about Financial Aid

How much do your programs cost?

Salon Success Academy offers beauty school educational programs at competitive costs. Estimated costs for individual programs are listed below, but the best way to get an exact number is to contact our admissions team.

  • Cosmetology:
    • Tuition: $16,800
    • Registration Fee: $100
    • Cosmetology Kit: $2,100.50
    • Student Tuition Recovery Fund: $47.50
    • Total: $19,048
  • Esthetics:
    • Tuition: $9,520
    • Registration Fee: $100
    • Esthetics Kit: $2,600
    • Student Tuition Recovery Fund: $30
    • Total: $12,250
  • Barbering:
    • Tuition: $14,000
    • Registration Fee: $100
    • Barber Kit: $2,000
    • Student Tuition Recovery Fund: $40
    • Total: $16,140
  • Nail Technology
    • Tuition: $4,000
    • Registration Fee: $100
    • Nail Tech Kit: $1,600
    • Student Tuition Recovery Fund: $15
    • Total: $5,715
Is Financial Aid available?

As an accredited school, Salon Success Academy is able to offer students financial aid. To begin the process, fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®). If you have any questions during the financial aid process, do not hesitate to contact us! More financial aid options and information are available on our Financial Aid page.

Do you have more questions? Contact Us Today!

See What Our Students Have To Say

star_image

“This is such a great school, I met wonderful people and had great teachers. Thank you for such a great experience.”

Steph J.

Steph J.

star_image

“I attended the salon success academy part time night barbering program at the Riverside campus. It was a lifelong goal of mine to attend barbering school to pursue my passion!!! Not only administrators, but all the professors and students are amazing heartfelt people who truly love what they do. I highly recommend the school to anyone who wants to enter the beauty industry!!!!”

Jose L.

Jose L.

star_image

“I am writing this review because I find it very disheartening that only people that have negative things to say usually post a comment. I'm here to do the opposite. I've been at salon success academy Upland campus since February. I am in the cosmo program and a current student ambassador. I have had the best experience here. To be older and now getting to do something that I love and to come and be accepted was more than I could ask for . I have built lifelong friendships and have met teachers that I have come to admire. Anywhere in this world is going to have its ups and downs but it's not as bad as some say. I have been acknowledged when I do a good job and I have received constructive criticism on what to do better next time. If you're following the rules and doing what you came here to do then you will have no problems. The things that I have learned at this school will definitely make me a successful stylist when I leave. SO THANK YOU SALON SUCCESS.”

Chelsii N.

Chelsii

check out our programs!

our partners





CORONA CAMPUS

2097 Compton Ave. Ste 201
Corona, CA 92881

(951) 736-9725

FONTANA CAMPUS

16803 Arrow Blvd.
Fontana, CA 92335

(909) 822-1149

REDLANDS CAMPUS

1915 West Redlands Blvd. Suite 111
Redlands, CA 92373

(909) 307-0312

RIVERSIDE CAMPUS

6780 Indiana Avenue Ste 200
Riverside, CA 92506

(951) 462-1028

UPLAND CAMPUS

1385 E Foothill Blvd.
Upland, CA 91786

(909) 982-4662

WEST COVINA CAMPUS

Plaza West Covina
112 Plaza Drive
West Covina, CA 91790

(909) 457-2812