How To Pay for Beauty School

You’ve got the passion. You’ve got the dream. You can already see yourself behind the chair, in the salon, or in a spa, creating beautiful transformations and building lasting relationships with clients. There’s just one thing standing between you and your career in beauty: paying for school.

At Rudae’s School of Beauty Culture, we believe finances should never be the reason you walk away from your dream career. That’s why we offer a variety of financial aid* options, payment plans, and personalized guidance to help you find a path that works for your budget and your life.

If you’ve ever wondered, “Can I really afford beauty school?”, the answer is yes, and this guide will walk you through exactly how.

Why Investing in Your Beauty Education Is Worth It

Before we talk about how to pay for beauty school, let’s talk about why it can be worth the investment.

Enrolling in a program at Rudae’s isn’t just about learning hair, nails, skincare, or teaching — it’s about gaining the skills, confidence, and credentials to turn your passion into a sustainable career. With training from an accredited institution, you can be prepared for state licensing exams and equipped to enter the industry ready to work.

In short: beauty school isn’t just an expense — it’s an investment in your future. And like any investment, there are smart ways to make it work financially.

Step 1: Know Your Costs

Before exploring your financial aid options, it’s important to get a clear picture of what your program will cost. At Rudae’s, your tuition will depend on which program you choose:

• Cosmetology
• Esthetics
• Manicuring
• Instructor Training

Along with tuition, there may be additional expenses for books, kits, uniforms, and fees. These costs are part of the overall calculation for financial aid eligibility.

Tip: Use Rudae’s Net Price Calculator to estimate your out-of-pocket expenses after financial aid. It’s a great way to see the “real” cost for your unique situation.

Step 2: Explore Financial Aid Options

At Rudae’s School of Beauty Culture, we participate in several federal financial aid programs to help bridge the gap between what you can contribute and the cost of your education.

Here’s a breakdown of what’s available:

1. Grants: Free Money You Don’t Have to Pay Back

Grants are one of the most desirable types of financial aid because they don’t require repayment. They’re typically awarded based on financial need.

Pell Grant Program

• Funded by the U.S. Department of Education
• Available to eligible students enrolled in participating schools (including Rudae’s!)
• Award amounts vary each year. For the current academic year, grants can be up to $6,195.
• Eligibility is determined through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®), which assesses your family’s financial situation.

Why It’s Great: Grants directly reduce your tuition costs — no repayment, no interest, just extra help.

2. Federal Direct Loans

Loans are borrowed funds that you pay back with interest, but they can make it possible to attend school without paying all costs up front.

At Rudae’s, we participate in the following loan programs:

Federal Subsidized Direct Loans

• Based on financial need
• Interest is paid by the government while you’re in school at least half-time and during grace/deferment periods
• Lower interest rates compared to many private loans

Federal Unsubsidized Direct Loans

• Not based on financial need
• You’re responsible for interest from the time the loan is disbursed (but you can choose to defer payments while in school)

3. Direct PLUS Loans (For Parents)

If you’re a dependent student, your parents may be able to take out a Direct PLUS Loan to help cover your tuition and related expenses.

• Credit check required
• Can cover the full remaining cost after other aid
• Repayment begins after the loan is fully disbursed, but deferment options may be available while you’re in school

4. VA Benefits

For eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and certain family members, VA education benefits may be used to cover some or all of your program costs.

5. Scholarships

While not listed as a specific Rudae’s program, many students also seek out external scholarships offered by beauty brands, nonprofits, or local community organizations. Your financial aid officer can help point you toward opportunities.

Step 3: Understand Typical Loan Amounts

Wondering what other students borrow? Here’s a look at the median loan debt for graduates:

• Cosmetology: $9,833 – $16,500
• Instructor Training: $5,500 – $9,500
• Esthetics: $5,500 – $9,500
• Manicuring: $3,666 – $6,333

This information can help you plan for repayment after graduation.

Step 4: Know the Eligibility Requirements

To receive federal financial aid at Rudae’s, you’ll need to meet certain requirements:

• Be a U.S. citizen, national, or permanent resident
• Demonstrate financial need based on your FAFSA® results
• Have a high school diploma or GED
• Attend classes at least half-time
• Make satisfactory academic progress toward completing your program

Pro Tip: Even if you think you might not qualify for need-based aid, always fill out the FAFSA® — you might still be eligible for loans or other assistance.

Step 5: Consider Rudae’s Payment Plans

If you’re looking for more flexibility, Rudae’s offers several payment plan options that can be used on their own or alongside financial aid.

Payment Plan A: Pay the total amount within 90 days
Payment Plan B: Use student loans and/or VA benefits to cover tuition
Payment Plan C: Make monthly or weekly payments
Payment Plan D: Combine monthly/weekly payments with financial aid

These options make it possible to fit beauty school into your budget, even if you can’t cover the full cost upfront.

Step 6: How to Apply for Financial Aid at Rudae’s

Applying for financial aid may feel intimidating, but Rudae’s financial aid office is here to make it as smooth as possible. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Complete the FAFSA®
   • Go to studentaid.gov and fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid
   • Use Rudae’s school code (available from the financial aid office) to ensure your results are sent to us
2. Review Your Student Aid Report (SAR)
   • This summary will show your Expected Family Contribution (EFC) and indicate what aid you may qualify for
3. Meet with a Financial Aid Officer
   • Discuss your options, ask questions, and choose a combination of grants, loans, and/or payment plans that work for you
4. Finalize Your Award Package
   • Once you accept your aid, your enrollment and payment schedule will be set

Step 7: Plan for Life After Graduation

Taking out loans? Be sure to plan for repayment. Here’s how you can make it easier:

• Know Your Loan Terms: Interest rates, grace periods, and repayment length matter.
• Budget Early: Start setting aside small amounts while in school.
• Consider Income-Driven Repayment Plans: These adjust your monthly payment based on your income.

The good news? Many beauty professionals find that their careers allow them to repay loans while still building their client base and income.

Step 8: Think Beyond Tuition

Your beauty school budget should also include:

• Supplies (kits, tools, uniforms)
• Transportation (gas, public transit, parking)
• Living Expenses (rent, groceries, childcare)

Financial aid can sometimes be used for these costs as well, so be sure to ask your financial aid officer.

Why Rudae’s Makes the Difference

Paying for school is just one part of the equation — choosing the right school is the other. At Rudae’s, you’re not just a student ID number. Our team is here to support you from your first tour to your first day in the salon and beyond.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• Personalized financial aid counseling to find the right plan for you
• Accredited programs that qualify for federal aid
• Flexible payment plans that adapt to your needs
• Hands-on, career-focused training in cosmetology, esthetics, manicuring, and instructor training

You Can Afford Your Dream Career

Financing your education may feel like the biggest hurdle, but at Rudae’s School of Beauty Culture, we’re committed to helping you cross it. Whether it’s through grants, loans, scholarships, VA benefits, or payment plans, there’s always a path forward.

Your career in beauty starts with one decision — to take the first step. Let us help you figure out the rest.

Ready to talk about your options? Contact us today to start building your personalized plan.

*financial aid is available to those who qualify