Cosmetology School Requirements

Jump to Your Question:

• Do I need a high school diploma or GED to attend cosmetology school?
• How old do I need to be to enroll in cosmetology school?
• Can I attend cosmetology classes while I'm still in high school?

Do I need a high school diploma or GED to attend cosmetology school?

Whether you need a high school diploma or GED to attend beauty school depends on the state in which you wish to attend school. The education level required varies from state to state. Some states, like Illinois, do not require a high school diploma, but you may have to take an additional test to be admitted to the schools if you haven't graduated or gotten your GED yet. Other states such as Montana require students to either have a high school diploma or GED to apply and be admitted to cosmetology schools. In general, though, it is safe to assume that either your home state or the schools you're considering will require a high school diploma or GED to enroll in beauty school.

How old do I have to be to enroll in cosmetology school?

Most schools require you to be at least 16 years of age and have a high school diploma or GED. If your cosmetology school of choice doesn't have an age requirement, it's likely that your state cosmetology board does. When in doubt, it's always best to ask your home state's board of cosmetology what their minimum age requirements are. If you're wondering if you're too old for beauty school - the answer is NOPE! 

Can I attend cosmetology classes if I'm still in high school?

Some progressive beauty schools may have special programs at their facility that allow high school students to take select classes and get a feel for the world of cosmetology, but typically dual enrollment in high school and cosmetology school is rare. However, there are vocational technology schools in many communities that allow students to get a head start on their beauty careers by letting students study cosmetology in high school or a vo-tech school. This is a great article on Getting a Head Start on Cosmetology in High School for more information. These high school cosmetology classes can be great preparation for getting your full cosmetology education at a beauty school.