Beauty school FAQ
Questions? We’ve got answers.
We like people who ask questions — it’s one of the qualities that made Aveda a pioneering brand. So, here are answers to the questions we hear most about beauty school; when you want to know more, we’re here.
About the Institute.
Why Aveda, and where it can take you.
What makes Aveda Institute Maryland different?
With the Aveda methods behind everything we do, our goal is to prepare you to enter the industry with the technical and professional skills you need. Salons and spas in our area often look to fill positions with our students — meet them on our Career Opportunities page.
Learn more on Why Aveda Institute.
Will my skills transfer to non-Aveda product lines?
Yes! Along with Aveda’s own techniques, we teach the fundamentals you need to adjust to any beauty line — plus the soft skills that are critical to success, and how to grow your own business.
What careers can I go into?
Plenty — from working behind the chair or in the treatment room to owning your own salon or spa, educating, or editorial and commercial work. No matter your story, there’s a fit for everyone in the beauty and wellness industry.
Programs & schedule.
What you’ll study and when you’ll be here.
What programs do you offer?
Cosmetology (1,500 clock hours), Hairstylist (1,200), Barber/Stylist (900), Blow Dry Stylist (350) and Esthetics (600). See them all on our Programs page.
What does the schedule look like?
Day classes run Tuesday–Saturday, 8:45am–4:30pm. Our programs are hybrid: about 50% of your time is in the building and 50% is distance education (DE) you complete at home.
DE is asynchronous — you choose when to work within each week’s window — but you’re required to complete your work, clock all of your DE hours and stay actively engaged.
When is the next start date?
We start new classes throughout the year. You’ll find upcoming start and graduation dates on each program page and on our Admissions page.
What do students wear?
A professional image in dressy or trendy solid black. Esthetics students wear soft-sole shoes in clinic.
Admissions & tours.
How to get started.
What do I need to apply?
Tour the Institute, complete your admission documents and submit:
• A high school diploma or GED (foreign diplomas must be translated and evaluated)
• Government-issued photo ID and a Social Security card
• The $25 application fee
Once accepted, you’ll pay the $125 enrollment fee and complete your enrollment paperwork. You must be at least 16 to enroll and 17 by the time you finish your program.
Can I tour the school?
Yes — tours can be virtual, over the phone or in person. Request info and we’ll set one up, or call us at (410) 838-0845.
Can I transfer hours from another school?
We accept transfer hours from other Aveda Institutes only, at our discretion, for like-kind programs and from within the past 2 years. Cosmetology, Hairstylist and Barber/Stylist can accept 300–750 transfer hours; Blow Dry Stylist and Esthetics do not accept transfer hours. Tuition is prorated for hours accepted.
Paying for school.
Financial aid, payment plans and the State Board.
Is financial aid available?
Yes, to those who qualify. Apply at studentaid.gov and enter our federal school code, 016012. Learn more on our Financial Aid page — and ask us about scholarships and state grants.
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes — interest-free, in-house payment plans. You pay the application and enrollment fees up front, a 20% deposit, then monthly payments while you’re enrolled. Each program page shows its plan.
Do you pay for the State Board exam?
Yes! We pay for your Maryland State Board exam until you pass, up to 3 times. To be eligible, pass both final exams with 80% or better and sit for your State Board exams within 90 days of graduation. Certain expectations and restrictions apply.
Where can I read all the details?
Everything — programs, costs, policies and calendars — is in our school catalog. You can also browse our blog or follow us on Instagram and Facebook.