How to Apply to Beauty School: A Step by Step Guide to Enrolling

Choosing to pursue a future in the beauty industry is exciting, but you may have questions about what comes next. How do you choose a program? What documents will you need? When should you apply for financial aid?

Applying to beauty school generally involves choosing a program and campus, touring the school, reviewing your payment options, gathering the required documents, and submitting an application. Once you apply, the admissions team can help you complete the remaining enrollment steps.

At Alabama School of Nail Technology & Cosmetology, we want you to feel informed and confident as you begin. Follow these seven steps to start your beauty school journey.

Step 1: Choose the Beauty Program That Fits Your Goals

Before applying, think about which part of the beauty industry interests you most. ASNTC offers three programs designed to prepare students with industry knowledge, practical skills, and experience in a salon-style environment.

Cosmetology

Cosmetology may be a good fit if you want to build a broad range of beauty skills. Students can learn about hairstyling, hair treatments, skincare, manicuring, safety, sanitation, and other areas of cosmetology.

Esthetics

If you are interested in skincare, makeup, waxing, and related services, consider the esthetics program. This program focuses on techniques that can help you prepare for opportunities within the skincare industry.

Nail Technology

The nail technology program is designed for students who are passionate about manicures, nail enhancements, acrylics, wraps, nail art, and nail care. Students also study the safety and sanitation practices needed to serve future clients responsibly.

You do not need to have every career detail figured out before contacting the school. An admissions advisor can help you learn more about each program so you can make a decision that supports your interests.

Step 2: Select Your Preferred Campus and Schedule

ASNTC has campuses in Jackson and Saraland, Alabama. Consider which location is more convenient for your commute and daily responsibilities.

Your schedule is another important part of the decision. Before enrolling, talk with the admissions team about the schedules currently available for your chosen program and campus. Consider how beauty school will fit alongside work, childcare, transportation, and other commitments.

Asking these questions early can help you choose an option you can realistically commit to throughout your education.

Step 3: Schedule a Beauty School Tour

A campus tour gives you the opportunity to see where you could be learning and practicing your skills. It can also help you decide whether the school’s environment feels right for you.

During your tour, pay attention to:

• The classrooms and salon-style training areas
• The equipment and tools students use
• How instructors interact with students
• The overall atmosphere of the campus
• Opportunities for practical, hands-on learning

This is also a good time to ask questions about your program. You may want to ask:

• What topics and services are covered?
• What schedules are currently available?
• When is the next class scheduled to start?
• What supplies or materials are included?
• What will I need before my first day?
• How can the school help me prepare for the State Board exam?

Do not worry about asking too many questions. A tour is meant to help you understand your options and make an informed decision.

Step 4: Review Tuition and Financial Aid Options

Beauty school is an investment in your education and future. Before enrolling, make sure you understand the tuition for your program as well as any additional fees, supplies, books, or testing costs.

Financial aid is available to those who qualify. Depending on your eligibility, options may include federal student aid, grants, scholarships, or loans. One common starting point is completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, better known as the FAFSA®. This application is used to determine whether you may qualify for federal student aid.

Try to begin the financial aid process early. Some applications and scholarships can take time, so starting before your desired class date may help you avoid unnecessary delays.

Remember that aid is not guaranteed. Speak directly with ASNTC’s financial aid team to better understand your eligibility, program costs, and next steps.

Step 5: Gather Your Admissions Documents

Having your documents ready can make the application and enrollment process easier. ASNTC asks prospective students to provide:

• A high school diploma, high school transcript showing graduation, letter from the school showing proof of graduation, or GED transcript
• Any applicable higher education transcripts
• A copy of a state-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license
• A signed Social Security card

Requirements can vary depending on your circumstances. If you are unsure whether a document will be accepted, contact the admissions team before submitting it.

Keep your documents together in a secure place so they are easy to access when requested. If you need to obtain a transcript or replacement document, begin that process as soon as possible.

Step 6: Submit Your Application

Once you have explored the programs, chosen a campus, and reviewed the admissions requirements, you are ready to begin the application process.

You can get started online by providing your:

• Program of interest
• Preferred campus
• First and last name
• Phone number
• Email address

Double-check your contact information before submitting the form. An admissions team member will use this information to reach you and explain what needs to happen next.

Submitting an application or information request does not mean you are expected to navigate the rest of the process by yourself. The admissions team can help you understand which documents are still needed and what you must complete before starting class.

Step 7: Complete Enrollment and Prepare for Class

After you submit your application, stay in contact with the admissions team. You may need to provide documents, complete financial aid steps, review school policies, or finalize other enrollment requirements.

Before your first day, confirm:

• Your official start date
• Your class schedule
• Where and when to arrive
• Required supplies or materials
• Dress code requirements
• Any forms or paperwork that still need to be completed

This is also a good time to prepare your routine. Plan your transportation, adjust your work schedule if necessary, and talk with family members about how they can support you during school.

Beauty school requires time, effort, and consistent attendance. Preparing in advance can help you arrive ready to focus on learning and developing your skills.

Your Beauty School Enrollment Planning Checklist

Use this checklist while speaking with admissions, touring the campus, and preparing your application. Write down the details as you receive them so you know exactly what to do next.

Record Your Program Details

Program you are interested in
Preferred campus: Jackson / Saraland
Full-time or part-time schedule
Next available start date
Application or enrollment deadline
Expected program completion time

Get a Complete Cost Breakdown

Ask the financial aid or admissions team to help you identify each expense associated with your program.

Tuition
Registration or application fees
Books, kit, and supplies
Testing or licensing fees
Other expected costs
Financial aid steps or deadlines
Scholarships or payment options to explore

Financial aid is available to those who qualify, so be sure to ask which options may apply to your situation.

Gather Your Admissions Documents

Proof of high school graduation or a GED transcript
Any applicable higher education transcripts
Copy of a state-issued photo ID
Signed Social Security card
Any additional documents requested by admissions

If you need to request a transcript or replace a missing document, start early to avoid delaying your enrollment.

Before You Submit Your Application

Confirm your name, phone number, and email address
Review your program and campus selections
Ask whether any documents are still missing
Save the admissions team’s contact information
Write down the date you submitted your application

After You Apply

Respond to calls or emails from the admissions team
Complete any remaining financial aid steps
Submit outstanding documents
Confirm that you have been accepted and enrolled
Write down your first day of class
Ask what clothing, tools, supplies, or paperwork to bring
Add important dates and deadlines to your calendar

Keeping this information in one place can help you stay organized and move through the enrollment process with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions About Enrolling in Beauty School

How early should I begin the application process?

It is a good idea to contact the school as soon as you have a program and potential start date in mind. Gathering transcripts, reviewing financial aid, and completing enrollment requirements can take time. The admissions team can tell you what classes are coming up and help you work backward from your preferred start date.

Can I attend beauty school part time?

ASNTC offers courses for full-time and part-time students. Available schedules may depend on the program, campus, and upcoming class. Speak with admissions about your responsibilities and scheduling needs so you can understand the options currently available.

Can previous beauty school hours transfer to ASNTC?

Transfer hours must be verified by the Alabama Board of Cosmetology before enrollment. It is the student’s responsibility to contact the Board and verify eligible hours. The Alabama Board of Cosmetology does not accept training hours earned in another state, so transfer students should look into this requirement early.

Does ASNTC offer distance education?

Up to 50% of the theory portion of a program may be offered through distance education. Practical training and other requirements still need to be completed according to the program’s structure. Ask the admissions team how distance education is currently incorporated into your program of interest.

Open the Door to Your Future in Beauty

Applying to beauty school is a big decision, but the process becomes easier when you take it one step at a time. Start by exploring your program options, visiting the campus, and talking with the ASNTC team about your goals.

Our experienced instructors are committed to helping students develop their skills, prepare for the State Board exam, and build confidence in a real-world salon setting.

Are you ready to begin? Contact Alabama School of Nail Technology & Cosmetology or schedule a tour at our Jackson or Saraland campus to take the first step toward your future in beauty.