Beauty School Scholarships: Your Guide to Paying for Your Education at Academy of Hair Design

Paying for beauty school doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Whether you’re a high school senior dreaming about your future or someone ready for a career change, there’s good news—scholarships can help make your beauty school education more affordable.

At Academy of Hair Design (AHD), we believe that finances shouldn’t stand in the way of following your passion. That’s why we’re proud to connect our students with a variety of scholarships, *financial aid options, and resources to help them succeed.

If you’re wondering where to start, this blog is your step-by-step guide to scholarships available through AHD, national programs, and opportunities specifically for high school seniors. Let’s dive in. 

High School Scholarships for June–September Classes

Limited-time opportunity! We offer exclusive High School Scholarships for students enrolling in June through September classes. These scholarships are designed to help recent graduates jumpstart their beauty careers.

Available Scholarship Amounts:

• $3,325 OFF Cosmetology Scholarship
• $1,530 OFF Hair Design Scholarship
• $1,000 OFF Esthetician Scholarship
• $1,000 OFF Nail Technology Scholarship

These scholarships are available each year, but amounts and availability may vary, so don’t wait.

Call AHD to learn about eligibility and how to apply.

Why Scholarships Matter

Before we talk about the specifics, it’s important to understand the value of scholarships—and why applying for them can be one of the smartest moves you can make.

• They don’t have to be paid back. Unlike loans, scholarships are a form of gift aid. That means free money to fund your education.
• They ease financial stress. Beauty school is an investment. Scholarships reduce the burden and give you more breathing room as you focus on learning and building your future.
• They open doors. Many scholarships offer more than just money—they include mentorship, networking opportunities, and a confidence boost that helps you stand out.

Whether you’re pursuing cosmetology, hair design, nail technology, or esthetics, scholarships can help you get there.

Scholarships Available at Academy of Hair Design

We proudly participate in and promote a number of scholarship opportunities, both through partnerships and national organizations. Here are some key scholarships available to students attending our Las Vegas campus:

1. ACE Grant Program

This program is perfect for incoming cosmetology students. The ACE (Access to Cosmetology Education) Grant provides up to $1,000 toward tuition for those who qualify. It’s designed to support your dreams from day one.

To apply: Call 1-800-831-1086 ext. 101 to request an application and complete a salon assessment.

2. Beauty School Marketing Group Scholarship

Offered by BeautySchoolsDirectory.com, this scholarship awards $2,500 to cosmetology students who demonstrate passion and commitment to their craft. It’s open to students attending qualified beauty schools and is awarded quarterly.

To apply: Visit Beauty Schools Directory Page

3. Beauty Changes Lives Scholarships

The Beauty Changes Lives Foundation offers several scholarships throughout the year to students pursuing careers in beauty and wellness. These awards vary in amount and area of study—cosmetology, esthetics, nail technology, and more.

Many of their scholarships also include mentorship and national recognition, giving students the chance to connect with top beauty professionals.

4. Great Clips Scholarship Program

Great Clips offers scholarships to students enrolled in a cosmetology or barbering program. They’re looking for students who show determination, professionalism, and a genuine desire to succeed in the salon industry.

To apply: Visit here.

5. Joe Francis Haircare Scholarship

Created in honor of a beauty industry pioneer, the Joe Francis Haircare Scholarship awards $1,000 to students enrolled or accepted into cosmetology programs.

Applications typically open in early spring and close by June.

6. Tippi Hedren Nail Scholarship

If you’re interested in nail technology, the Tippi Hedren Scholarship (available through the American Association of Cosmetology Schools) awards up to $5,000 for qualifying nail tech students.

Named after the legendary actress and nail industry advocate, this scholarship supports excellence and creativity in nail education.

7. Sport Clips Help A Hero Scholarship

This scholarship is available to veterans and active duty service members for use at post-secondary schools and trade schools. If you’ve served, this is a great opportunity to fund your transition into the beauty industry.

8. OPI 

For students interested in nail technology, OPI partners with beauty schools to offer scholarships based on creativity, career goals, and financial need. 

9. AACS Scholarships (American Association of Cosmetology Schools)

As an AACS member school, AHD students are eligible for a variety of scholarships offered throughout the year, including options for high school seniors, current students, and veterans. Award amounts vary.

To apply: Visit here. 

10. Great Clips Scholarship Program

If you’ve always dreamed of working in a salon, this one’s for you. Great Clips offers scholarships to cosmetology and barbering students who demonstrate passion and commitment to the field.

Special Opportunities for High School Seniors

Still in high school but already dreaming of a career in beauty? Good news—there are scholarships just for you.

Many of the programs above, like the Great Clips and Beauty Changes Lives scholarships, are open to high school seniors who plan to enroll in cosmetology or related programs.

In addition, the American Association of Cosmetology Schools (AACS) offers annual high school scholarships specifically for graduating seniors entering beauty school. If you’re a motivated student planning ahead, this is a great way to get a head start.

Tip: Start gathering your application materials now—most of these scholarships require transcripts, letters of recommendation, and short personal essays.

How to Find (and Win) Scholarships

Applying for scholarships takes effort, but the payoff is worth it. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of the opportunities available:

1. Start Early

Scholarship deadlines can sneak up on you. Make a calendar of upcoming deadlines, and don’t wait until the last minute to apply.

2. Apply Often

Don’t stop at one. Apply for every scholarship you’re eligible for. Even small awards can add up and reduce your overall cost.

3. Tell Your Story

Most scholarships ask for a personal statement or essay. Use this space to share why you’re passionate about beauty, what your career goals are, and how this scholarship will help you succeed.

4. Ask for Help

Don’t be afraid to reach out to a career planner at AHD. We’re here to help you review your applications, write strong essays, and track down even more scholarship opportunities.

Combining Scholarships with Financial Aid

Scholarships are just one piece of the financial aid puzzle. At Academy of Hair Design, we can also help you access:

• Federal Pell Grants
• Subsidized and unsubsidized student loans
• GI Bill® and veteran education benefits
• State or local assistance programs
• Flexible payment plans

Tip: The first step in applying for financial aid is filling out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). If you haven’t done that yet, we can help guide you through it.

Real Success Can Start Here

We’ve seen countless students come through our doors, unsure how they’d pay for their education, only to discover that scholarships made all the difference. Whether it was a first-generation college student earning a Beauty Changes Lives award or a military veteran receiving support through the Help A Hero program, the right scholarship can open the door to a new future.

You could be next.

Take the Next Step

If you’re thinking about beauty school, don’t let finances hold you back. There are more scholarship opportunities available today than ever before—and many of them are waiting for someone exactly like you.

Here’s how to get started:

1. Visit our scholarship page for current opportunities
2. Book a tour of our Las Vegas campus and speak with a career planner
3. Apply for scholarships now—even before you enroll
4. Submit your FAFSA to access additional aid
5. Ask us questions—we’re here to help you make it happen

Your future in beauty starts with one bold step. Let’s take it together. Contact us today to get started.

*financial aid is only available to those who qualify