How to Find the Right Esthetician School for You
We're excited to kick off a special blog series created by our partners at Associated Skin Care Professionals (ASCP), the nation’s leading organization dedicated to supporting licensed estheticians and students. ASCP offers expert resources, liability insurance, ongoing education, and professional guidance to help skin care professionals thrive at every stage of their careers.
In this first post, ASCP’s team shares practical advice on one of the most important decisions future estheticians face: how to choose the right school. Whether you're just starting to explore the world of professional skincare or ready to take the next step toward licensure, this guide will help you understand what to look for—and how to find the best fit for your goals.
Thinking about becoming an esthetician? Great choice! Whether you’re passionate about skincare, love helping others feel confident, or dream of owning your own business one day, esthetics is a career that offers creativity, flexibility, and meaningful client connection. But before you can start transforming skin, you need to find the right esthetician school to get licensed and launch your career.
Here’s what to know as you explore your options:
How Long is Esthetician School?
Esthetician programs typically take around 600 hours to complete, which usually means about six months of full-time study. Some schools offer part-time options if you're balancing work or family life, which may extend the timeline a bit. Be sure to check your state’s requirements, some states require more training hours than others.
How Much Does Esthetician School Cost?
Tuition for esthetician schools can vary depending on the location, type of program, and whether it's part of a larger cosmetology school or a dedicated esthetics institute. On average, expect to pay anywhere from $4,000 to $15,000. Don’t forget to factor in the cost of your school kit and state licensing fees.
What Will You Learn in Esthetician School?
Esthetician school is where you’ll learn the essential skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the treatment room.
Most programs include training in:
Facials
Hair removal (waxing and tweezing)
Makeup application
Skin analysis and client consultation
Product knowledge and retailing
Infection control and sanitation practices
State board exam preparation
Some schools may also offer additional training in advanced skin care treatments, business acumen, or spa operations to help you take your career even further.
Can You Attend Esthetician School Online?
While esthetics is a hands-on career, some schools now offer hybrid or online options for certain portions of their curriculum, especially the theory-based content. However, you’ll still need to complete in-person training to meet licensing requirements. In the meantime, organizations like Associated Skin Care Professionals (ASCP) offer online education and support through student memberships, giving you extra tools and education as you study.
How Can You Pay for Esthetician School?
There are several ways to finance your esthetics education:
Federal financial aid (FAFSA): Some accredited schools qualify for federal student aid.
Scholarships and grants: Look for scholarships offered by beauty brands, professional associations like ASCP, and community organizations.
Payment plans: Many schools offer installment plans to help make tuition more manageable.
Final Tips for Choosing an Esthetician School
When researching esthetician programs, consider the following:
Is the school accredited or state-approved?
What’s included in the tuition—kit, books, uniforms?
Does the school offer job placement assistance?
What do current students or alumni say about their experience?
Most importantly, schedule a tour! Visit the campus, ask questions, and get a feel for the environment. Your education is the foundation of your career, so make sure it’s a good fit.
Looking for more information about esthetics school, career tips, or the latest in the skin care industry? Visit Associated Skin Care Professionals (ASCP) at www.ascpskincare.com/students.