What Are the Requirements for Beauty School and How Do I Apply

Thinking about beauty school? Whether you dream of cutting hair, shaping brows, or running your own salon, Renaissance Academie Cosmetology and Esthetics (RACE) makes it possible. We know starting your journey in beauty can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. From choosing the right program to understanding state requirements and planning your classes, we guide every student step by step.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through programs, timelines, and how to apply at our nationally renowned Provo, Utah, beauty institute. Whether you’re exploring cosmetology, esthetics, or other beauty opportunities, this resource will help you understand what to expect and how to take the first exciting steps toward building your future in the beauty industry.

Basic Requirements

Getting started is simple. To start the process with our experienced counselors, you’ll need:

• Proof of education: High school diploma, GED, transcript, or homeschool certificate.
• Proof of age: Driver’s license, birth certificate, or government-issued ID.
• Other documents: Your advisor will guide you on anything else, as needed (e.g., related industry experience, financial aid docs, etc

Steps to Apply

We’ve taken strides to provide all newcomers a clear, user-friendly path to enrollment:

• Book a campus tour, so you can see our classrooms, equipment, and students in action.
• Meet with admissions to choose a path and review program requirements.
• Submit paperwork, including education records, ID, and anything else as advised.
• Select your schedule, choosing between full-time, part-time, or hybrid classes.
• Discuss funding to explore grants, scholarships, and payment plans.
• Confirm enrollment — once set, you’re officially a student!

Programs at RACE

RACE offers programs suited to broad interests in a variety of cosmetology and esthetics fields:

• Cosmetology/Barbering: Hair, nails, skin, barbering, and even running the business.
• Hair Design: Cutting, coloring, styling, scalp care, and artistry.
• Master Esthetics: Advanced skin treatments, facials, chemical peels, and laser treatments.
• Basic Esthetics: Skincare basics, including various waxing, facials, and makeup.
• Nail Technology: Manicures, pedicures, extensions, nail art, and (last but not least!) sanitation.
• Lash & Brow Technology: Extensions, lifts, tinting, shaping, lamination, and much more.

How Long Do Programs Take? 

Approximate timelines vary by program and your own scheduling requirements:

• Cosmetology/Barbering: Full-time in about 46 weeks; part-time takes around 80 weeks.
• Hair Design: Full-time, around 35 weeks; part-time as short as 60 weeks.
• Master Esthetics: Full-time, 35 weeks, and part-time around 80 weeks.
• Basic Esthetics: Only 18 weeks, for full-time about; part-time is about 30.
• Nail Technology: Approximately 15 weeks.
• Lash & Brow Technology: Just 5 weeks.

Academic Support and Resources

RACE builds support into every program:

• Flexible scheduling: Day, night, part-time, or hybrid options available.
• Federal aid: Available to qualifying students. Our FSA adviser is here to guide you and support you through the process.  (FAFSA code 041530).
• Scholarships: Including generous offers from partners like Sport Clips and Beauty Changes Lives
• Veteran benefits: GI Bill® approved.
• State and rehab grants: Available where applicable.
• Payment plans: Split tuition into smaller payments, with customizable options.
• Facilities: Modern, salon-style classrooms and clinic equipped with updated tools and professional-grade resources to give students real-world experience.

What to Expect on a Tour

Campus tours help you picture yourself in class, with all of:

• Watch current students practicing their craft with real clients.
• Talk with instructors about training and expectations.
• Ask about financial aid, plus curriculum and career services.
• Learn to prepare and study for state licensing exams.

We also recommend you bring a notebook and camera, for all the details you’ll want to remember.

Licensing Exams

After completing your program, you’ll take the Utah state licensing exams, which entail both:

1. Written exam: Multiple-choice questions on theory, safety, and sanitation.
2. Practical exam: Timed demonstrations of skills, like haircutting, skincare, and nails.

Passing both proves you’re ready to work as a licensed professional. Note: RACE offers comprehensive prep support, including reviews and mock tests, to further boost confidence in your trade.

Career Opportunities

Graduating from beauty school opens doors in many subfields, such as:

• Salon stylist: Cut, color, and style your clientele’s hair.
• Spa esthetician: Perform facials, peels, and skin treatments.
• Nail technician: Provide luxurious, beautifying manicures, pedicures, and extensions
• Lash and brow artist: Extensions, lifts, tinting, shaping, and lamination services.
• Freelance professional: Work privately to support weddings, events, and photoshoots.
• Business owner: Open your own salon, spa, or studio clinic.
• Instructor: Train the next generation of master estheticians!
• Product representative: Work with beauty brands to showcase products and drive sales.
• Medical spa esthetician: Work with skincare clinics, lasers, or wellness centers.
• Platform artist: Perform at trade shows, competitions, or educational events.

The beauty industry offers freedom to specialize, combine services, or grow into leadership roles.

Tips for Success at RACE’s Influential Beauty School

RACE helps you build strong skills, but your academic and professional habits matter too:

• Stay organized: Track your hours, assignments, and exams.
• Practice often: Skill comes with repetition.
• Build your portfolio: Take photos of your work to show clients or employers.
• Network early: Connect with classmates, instructors, and industry contacts.
• Ask questions: Show curiosity and initiative.
• Prioritize self-care: Beauty school is hands-on, so manage posture, energy, and health

Real-World Preparation

Beyond classroom skills, RACE prepares you for professional life:

• Career services: Résumé writing and interview prep
• Portfolio coaching: Highlight your best work visually
• Networking events: Meet salon owners, spa managers, and brand reps
• Confidence building: Hands-on training builds comfort with clients.
• Creativity boost: Our programs encourage your personal style and vision.

Continuing Education

Learning doesn’t stop at graduation. As beauty trends and technologies evolve, staying updated is key:

• Advanced courses: Master new techniques like balayage, microneedling, or lash artistry.
• Specialty certifications: Nail art, skincare therapies, or barbering trends.
• Workshops and seminars: Attend events for tips, product updates, and inspiration.
• Online courses: Flexible options that let you learn without interrupting your schedule.
• Networking opportunities: Meet industry leaders and expand your career options.

Continuing education keeps skills fresh and helps maintain compliance with licensing updates. It also helps increase your earning potential.

Why Choose RACE’s Elite Beauty School

Beauty training is beyond mere technique, it’s a foundation for a new career helping people look and feel their best. That’s why RACE offers supportive advisors, flexible schedules, modern facilities, and creative financing options. We also provide small class sizes to support a personal and interactive learning environment.

Feeling Inspired? Book a Tour and Experience What RACE Has to Offer

Beauty school at RACE gives you the skills and confidence needed to expand your career options dramatically. From your first tour to graduation, you’ll experience a clear and welcoming process. Once licensed, you can enter salons, spas, or run your own business. Continuing education ensures you stay competitive and creative throughout your career.

If you’re passionate about beauty, this is where your journey begins. Contact us today, and take the first step toward a profession you can be proud of.