4/3/2026 via Google

4/3/2026
via Google

I studied at Chick Studios in 2017 with instructors Johnny, Ruth, and John, under the direction of Christina. I completed over 110 hours of professional makeup training + extra hours for film, TV, bridal, and music videos, traveling internationally and investing nearly $7,000- 8,000. After a fire destroyed my original diploma and letter of completion and recommendation, I reached out multiple times by phone and email to request replacements. Amy Nicole Cohen replied, asking me to pay a $30 fee for a certificate replacement. What I received lacks a stamp, or professional validation, and does not reflect the professionalism and liability I earned, also I haven’t received a digital completion verification or recommendation letter. I’ve attached screenshots comparing the 2017 diploma and the certificate I received last week, as well as the email from Amy Nicole Cohen. Since the studio changed directors and instructors, I’ve seen many negative reviews, and my experience highlights the current lack of communication and support. Phone numbers and emails still unanswered, and there is no way to verify enrollment. This issue has delayed my Union make up application and puts my professional path at risk. I hope Chick Studios improves how they handle student requests, especially for proof of completion. Even if I wanted to hang this digital certificate in my studio, it would be embarrassing. It doesn’t reflect the standard of the course I completed or my work as a professional in the industry and it doesn’t make me feel proud to have studied here. Chick Studios needs to take this seriously and show respect for their students and the work, energy, money we invest in the program. If you want to become a professional or certified makeup artist, do not waste your money at Chick Studios. Look for another program that provides real support, accountability, and professional recognition. Attaching professional certification (2017) and the new certification I just received (2026).

2/19/2026 via Google

2/19/2026
via Google

I booked and paid for a 3-hour makeup course two months in advance, specifically planning my trip to NYC around the confirmed date of February 17. I arranged travel and stayed until February 18. A week before (around Feb 10), I hadn’t received any confirmation email with location or details, so I messaged them to ask. They only replied after my inquiry, saying they did have an MUA available that day but she was “busy,” and offered February 19 instead. I immediately explained that February 19 wasn’t possible because I’d be leaving NYC on the 18th—something I’d told them when booking (or at least my travel was set around their original date). I requested a full refund via PayPal right away. It’s now been over 4 days (as of Feb 19), with zero response, no refund processed, and no further communication despite follow-ups. This was supposed to be a professional service, but the poor planning, last-minute change without notice, disregard for my travel constraints, and complete silence on the refund have been extremely disappointing. I expected better reliability from what presents itself as a formal company. Potential students: double-check confirmations far in advance and be prepared for possible issues. I hope they resolve the refund soon, but based on this experience, I cannot recommend them.

3/8/2025 via Google

3/8/2025
via Google

I attended Chic Studios for a week-long course in 2021 and wanted to share my experience for anyone considering enrolling. While I appreciate the opportunity to learn, there were a few things that stood out as disappointing, especially considering the cost. On the first day, our makeup artists spent about an hour talking about themselves—their experience, why they got into beauty, etc. While I understand introductions are important, I felt that with the amount of money I paid, that time could have been better spent on hands-on learning. Another issue was the makeup kit. The website advertised products from well-known brands, but the makeup we received was not the same as what was originally listed. To their credit, they did update this after the course I was in, but at the time, it was misleading. One of the biggest frustrations for me was the no-recording policy. As someone who learns visually, being able to rewatch demonstrations would have been extremely helpful. However, we were told we couldn’t record because they didn’t want the content uploaded online. I understand protecting their material, but not everyone retains information perfectly after seeing it once. To be fair, they did offer a free additional week of classes for those who wanted to review the material, which I took advantage of. I don’t know if they still provide this, but it was a helpful option. If you're considering this school, I recommend asking specific questions before enrolling: What will the first day consist of? Can you record sessions if you’re a visual learner? What products are included in the kit? These courses can cost thousands of dollars, so it’s worth making sure you’ll get what you need out of it. I’m sharing this now because I think it’s important for potential students to have a realistic idea of what to expect and to ask the right questions before investing their time and money.