Cosmetology School Accreditation & NACCAS

Jump to Your Question:

• What does "accredited cosmetology schools" mean?
• Why are accredited cosmetology schools and accredited beauty schools beneficial?
• Which beauty schools are accredited by NACCAS?
• What is the NACCAS?
• What other agencies accredit beauty schools?

What does it mean for a cosmetology school to be accredited?

Beauty schools that are labeled "accredited" have met certain academic and institutional requirements established by the cosmetology school accrediting organizations. Some of the factors that accrediting organizations look for are: the cosmetology school's curriculum, quality of education, facilities, staff, and admission policies.

What are the benefits of attending accredited cosmetology schools and accredited beauty schools?

The primary advantage of a cosmetology school being "accredited" is its ability to offer financial aid for beauty school students. NACCAS is not a government agency, but the United States Department of Education recognizes their authority in accrediting cosmetology schools and beauty schools. While accreditation is important to most beauty schools, there are still tons of excellent beauty schools available that choose not to be accredited.

Which beauty schools are accredited and receive recognition from the NACCAS?

You can find an extensive list of accredited beauty schools that receive recognition from the NACCAS in our featured beauty schools section. For a complete list of cosmetology schools with accreditation status, contact your state cosmetology licensing board or accrediting agency.

What is the NACCAS?

The largest accrediting agency for beauty and cosmetology schools is NACCAS, which stands for the National Accrediting Commission for Career Arts & Sciences. NACCAS is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as an accrediting authority. NACCAS currently accredits approximately 1,000 beauty institutions which serve more than 100,000 beauty school students. These schools offer more than 20 courses and programs of study which fall under the NACCAS scope of accreditation.

What other agencies accredit beauty schools and cosmetology schools?

Other accrediting agencies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education include: ACCSCT (Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges of Technology), ACCET (Accrediting Council for Continued Education & Training), and SACS (Southern Association of Colleges and Schools). Also, the American Association of Cosmetology Schools (AACS), the Cosmetology Advancement Foundation (CAF), and the Beauty and Barber Supply Institute (BBSI) all sponsor ACE Grants, which encourage highly motivated and qualified individuals to join the world of cosmetology.