Industry associations are a terrific resource for scholarships. These associations are made up of individuals who once were students. They believe in giving back & supporting their industry. Please take a minute to review each of the grants below.
Applicant Qualifications
Application Requirements
Must submit a short essay or 3-minute YouTube video with a public link answering the following.
ACE Program is designed to help you begin your career in cosmetology. The ACE Program is the first ever industry-wide effort to encourage highly motivated and qualified individuals to join the world of cosmetology.
Established as a 501c3 in 2013, Beauty Changes Lives is a non-profit organization awarding beauty school tuition scholarships generously funded by leading beauty brands. The Beauty Changes Lives scholarship portfolio includes tuition scholarships for aspiring hairstylists, nail professionals, estheticians, makeup artists, massage therapists and barbers. In addition to “basic” scholarships, Beauty Changes Lives offers “advanced” scholarships for licensed professionals, including beauty educators. Since its inception, Beauty Changes Lives has awarded more than 500 scholarships, opening doors of opportunity that range from working behind the scenes at New York Fashion Week, to opening thriving businesses.
For more information, visit www.beautychangeslives.org/scholarships. Or call BCL directly at 760-733-8383
The BeautySchoolsDirectory.com team is proud to offer a $2,500 scholarship for students and professionals changing others’ lives through wellness and beauty. If you’re ready to begin a fulfilling and rewarding career in the beauty and wellness industry, or if you are continuing your education to pursue your next career goal, submit the application form below for the chance to win a $2,500 scholarship toward your tuition and education expenses.
For more information go to https://www.beautyschoolsdirectory.com/cosmetology-school-scholarships.php.
For a full list of scholarships from Beauty Schools Directory go to https://www.beautyschoolsdirectory.com/financial-aid/scholarships
The scholarship is from Buy-Rite Beauty, and is for $1,000 for those students interested in pursuing a degree in cosmetology. All participants must have applied to or be enrolled in as full-time beautician/cosmetology students.
For more information click here.
Circadia® The Sage Michaela Lucas “Timing is Everything” Esthetics Student Scholarship
The Sage Michaela Lucas “Timing is Everything” scholarship is generously funded by Circadia®, a pioneer in the science of chronobiology and skincare. Circadia® is again generously donating a total of $50,000 in Esthetics Scholarships for the Spring and Fall Season for the next two years. The Sage Michaela Lucas “Timing is Everything” award celebrates diversity, inclusivity, and affirmation.
The scholarship is open to esthetics students enrolled in an accredited program and who identify as black, indigenous and people of color (BIPOC). The scholarship grant targets esthetic students pursuing a career in aesthetics, skincare formulation and/or cosmetic chemistry.
European Wax Center is partnering with Beauty Changes Lives to offer the “Experts in Wax” Scholarship, which is intended to provide an educational opportunity for all current or newly enrolled students of an esthetics or cosmetology program at an accredited school in the U.S. to help offset the cost of tuition. These scholarships help the recipients refine their skills, embrace a career in the personal care industry and become the experts we know they can be so they can help bring out the confidence in their clients.
For details on how to apply, click here
The annual Great Scholarship Program, given in memory of Alice Madden Barton, offers financial assistance to students across North America totaling over $100,000. The program supports those students pursuing careers in cosmetology by providing tuition assistance. Alice Madden Barton saw firsthand how a career in cosmetology provided opportunity for growth and financial stability. Her hope was that more “young folks” have the same opportunity, so Ray and Rhoda (Great Clips Chairman and Co-Chair of the Board) started the Great Scholarship Program in her memory.
Scholarship values provided by Great Clips, Inc.
Great Clips, Inc. funds this national recruiting program. A total of twenty-two $5,000 scholarships will be given annually to students throughout the United States and Canada.
How students apply
The application is open year-round. Students will fill out an application and essay question by visiting greatclipscareers.com/scholarships or texting “SCHOLARSHIP” to 98765.
Scholarship applicants will have an opportunity for award during two calendar periods, spring, and fall. Students applying from January 15-September 1 are eligible for the current calendar year Great Scholarship Program. Students that apply after September 1, will be eligible for the Great Scholarship Program for the following year if they remain students and have a balance on their tuition. Applicants must comply with the Terms and Conditions of the Great Scholarship Program. Checks will be made out to the cosmetology schools (or financial institution that holds the loan) to be used towards the winner’s balance.
The scholarship is from EstheticianEDU.org and is for $500 for those students interested in pursuing a degree in esthetics or a certificate program. Any recently accepted or currently enrolled student in a qualifying esthetics associate’s degree or certificate program are eligible to apply.
For more information click here.
The Jerry Alexander Gorman Foundation “The Passion to Succeed” Student Scholarship was formed to support those in need to achieve their goal of becoming a licensed professional. The scholarship will be awarded through the Beauty Changes Lives Foundation and is open to newly accepted or currently enrolled students in a cosmetology, hair design or barbering that leads to licensure in the U.S.
The Joe Francis Haircare Scholarship Foundation was established in 1994 by his wife of 39 years, Flo Francis, and the many people whom Joe Francis advised and mentored to their own success in the industry. The mission of the foundation is to help deserving students receive financial assistance for the professional training necessary to build successful, long-term careers in the cosmetology industry. Applications are accepted January 1st through June 1st each year.
For more information go to www.joefrancis.com
The Leo Passage “Dare to Lead” Cosmetology and Barbering Student Scholarship
In partnership with Beauty Changes Lives, Pivot Point International is proud to announce the creation of two prestigious scholarships in 2025 for both students and educators to honor the legacy of our founder, Leo Passage. A world-renowned hairdresser, passionate educator, and trailblazing visionary, Leo Passage built a career rooted in three core values: bravery, curiosity, and the power of sharing knowledge.
Leo's bravery was evident early in his life when, as a young boy, he helped Jews escape persecution during World War II, risking his own safety to stand up for others. His boundless curiosity drove him to leave his home country in Europe with only $75 in his pocket, embarking on a journey to the United States to see the world and pursue new opportunities. And his commitment to sharing knowledge transformed the beauty, barbering and wellness industry—Leo pioneered an entirely new way of teaching that continues to empower students and educators around the globe.
These Spring & Fall season scholarships aim to celebrate and inspire individuals who embody these principles, ensuring Leo's legacy lives on through the next generation of students and education leaders.
The Leo Passage “Pass it On” Advanced Education for Educators Scholarship
In partnership with Beauty Changes Lives, Pivot Point International is proud to announce the creation of two prestigious scholarships in 2025 for both students and educators to honor the legacy of our founder, Leo Passage. A world-renowned hairdresser, passionate educator, and trailblazing visionary, Leo Passage built a career rooted in three core values: bravery, curiosity, and the power of sharing knowledge.
Leo's bravery was evident early in his life when, as a young boy, he helped Jews escape persecution during World War II, risking his own safety to stand up for others. His boundless curiosity drove him to leave his home country in Europe with only $75 in his pocket, embarking on a journey to the United States to see the world and pursue new opportunities. And his commitment to sharing knowledge transformed the beauty, barbering and wellness industry—Leo pioneered an entirely new way of teaching that continues to empower students and educators around the globe.
These Spring & Fall season scholarships aim to celebrate and inspire individuals who embody these principles, ensuring Leo's legacy lives on through the next generation of students and education leaders.
Keller International now offers a unique cosmetology scholarship opportunity for one student each year as a way to alleviate some of the financial burden they accrue during their educational journey. The winner of this contest will be rewarded $1000.00 towards their tuition fees!* This scholarship is open to cosmetology and barber students.
For more information click here.
Kristin Ess Hair Female Hairstylist Cosmetology Scholarship
Kristin Ess Hair began with a simple idea: to create an affordable collection of luxury haircare and styling products that would give everyone the chance to create modern, perfectly imperfect hair. Co-founded by Kristin Ess, the brand developed a collection of cleansers, conditioners, dry + wet stylers, glosses, styling tools, styling accessories and hair accessories. Versatile, easy-to-use and incredibly high-performing, these salon-quality products are designed for all hair types and textures. Loved by stylists and consumers alike, Kristin Ess Hair is the only mass haircare brand founded by a female hairstylist.
The Kristin Ess Hair Female Hairstylist Cosmetology Scholarship was established to bring to life our mission, to empower and support aspiring female hairstylists who are dedicated to pursuing their passion for hair and building a successful career in the professional beauty industry. Recognizing the challenges and financial barriers that many students (especially females) face, this scholarship aims to provide the necessary resources and opportunities to talented women who dream of making their mark in the world of hairstyling. By investing in the education and development of future hairstylists, the scholarship not only honors our brand’s Salon & female-founder heritage but also contributes to the growth and innovation within the beauty industry.
Scholarship Description & Award Information
L’Oréal Professionnel prides itself on demonstrating one of their core values to support diversity and equality within the hairdressing profession, the scholarship awards up to $5,000 in tuition funding for students enrolled or accepted in a cosmetology program at any accredited institution whose service demonstrates a commitment to justice, equity, and diversity.
The Empowering Diversity Scholarship is dedicated to the memory of Sheena Coleman, a much-loved member of the L’Oréal Professionnel Education Team who sadly passed away in 2020. Sheena’s love and passion for educating and inspiring others will live on as we dedicate the Empowering Diversity Scholarship in her memory.
The PCA SKIN® “Diversity in Esthetics” Student Scholarship was created in 2022 with the purpose of increasing the representation of diverse esthetics professionals. For more than three decades, PCA SKIN® has been the leader in skin health education. PCA SKIN® has been and continues to be a trusted innovator in the development of highly effective professional treatments and daily care products. Our vision is to improve people’s lives by providing results-oriented skincare solutions that are backed by science for the health of your unique skin.
The PCA SKIN® “Diversity in Esthetics” Student Scholarship awards outstanding diverse students to encourage their selection of esthetics as a program of study and their ultimate entry into the profession. If chosen, you'll be given funds to help pay for your esthetics program and receive exclusive professional development opportunities.
L’Oréal Professionnel "Inspiration through Education" Cosmetology Student Scholarship
Scholarship Description & Award Information
At L’Oréal Professionnel, we believe that education is the most powerful tool to grow, inspire and develop hair artists of tomorrow. Our values of professional proof, inspiring education, creating trends and pioneer research showcase that our brand aspires to empower our salon partners and artists to succeed. The scholarship awards up to $5,000 in tuition funding for students enrolled or accepted in a cosmetology program at any accredited institution.
Introducing the ROSY REWARDS scholarship program by Rosy Salon Software. A $10,000 annual scholarship fund just for future salon professionals! Are you a Cosmetology student? Are you as passionate about the industry as we are? Do you know somebody else who is? Enter for a chance to win one of 12 scholarships offered annually! Awarded quarterly.
For more information click here.
Sugarlash PRO has been known as a brand that sets the tone for educators and innovators in the lash community. We pride ourselves for being industry leaders with not only our extensive range of products, but our comprehensive academy courses and tools. We embrace all the diversity we see in the lash community and how people of different ages, races, genders, and backgrounds contribute to the creative space we have today.
We participate in the United States federal student aid program which includes grants & loans. We are members of & support our industry associations. These associations have grants available too.
GUEST SERVICES
The University of Aesthetics & Cosmetology is nationally accredited by the Middle States Association Commission, a worldwide leader in accreditation and school improvement. For over 130 years, Middle States has been helping school leaders establish and reach their goals, develop strategic plans, promote staff development and advance student achievement.
Tariff Buster! Aesthe Skin Care is offering a special grant! Enroll in our Aesthetician Program in Chicago or Downers Grove within the next 8 months (April through December) & save $2,000. Certain Terms & Conditions apply.