A Guide to Finding the Best Program for Your Future Career

Thinking about a career in beauty or barbering? Choosing the right cosmetology or barber school in Georgia is one of the most important steps you can take. And it is a hard step when you don’t even know what you should be looking for. The school you choose will prepare you for your licensing exams, help you build hands-on skills, and connect you with future job opportunities.

We have seen too many people choose the wrong school just because it was close, cheap, or made false promises. We do not want that to happen to you.

Below, we’ll walk through how to choose the best Georgia school for your goals, what programs are available, and what to know about crossover licensing for cosmetologists and barbers.

Start with State-Approved Schools

To qualify for licensure in Georgia, you must complete training at a Georgia Board of Cosmetology and Barbers–approved school. Before you enroll, verify that the school’s program is listed and in good standing with the state.

You can use the official license verification portal to look up approved schools and facilities. Select Business/Facility (not Individual) when searching.

Verify a School on the Georgia Licensing Portal

Understand the Different Programs

Georgia offers several different beauty and barbering license types. Each program has specific hour and training requirements.

Master Cosmetologist

This is the most comprehensive beauty license in Georgia. You’ll learn hairstyling, cutting, coloring, chemical services, skin care, and nail care.

Training requirement: 1,500 hours in a licensed cosmetology school
License exam: Written and practical exams

Master Barber

Barber programs focus on cutting, styling, and shaving services for men and women.

Training requirement: 1,500 hours in a licensed barber school
License exam: Written and practical exams

Hair Designer

If you’re interested in only hair cutting, styling, and chemical services, a hair designer license might be right for you. Hair designers do not provide nail or skincare services.

Training requirement: 1,325 hours

Nail Technician

A shorter program focused on manicuring, pedicuring, and nail enhancement services.

Training requirement: 525 hours

Esthetician

Focuses on skincare treatments, facials, waxing, and makeup.

Training requirement: 1,000 hours

Most Georgia schools offer one or more of these programs, so it’s helpful to compare course outlines and total hours before you enroll.

Check for Accreditation and Reputation

A quality cosmetology or barber school will have:

State approval by the Georgia Board of Cosmetology and Barbers
Accreditation (such as NACCAS) for federal financial aid eligibility
Experienced, licensed instructors with real-world experience
Updated facilities and sanitation standards that meet Georgia’s health codes

Ask to tour the campus, meet instructors, and talk to current students about their experience.

Compare Tuition, Scheduling, and Financial Aid

Tuition varies widely between schools, so be sure to ask for a written breakdown of costs and payment options. Many Georgia schools offer:

Full-time or part-time programs
Evening and weekend schedules
Financial aid for accredited programs
In-house payment plans

If you’re planning to work while in school, make sure the class schedule fits your lifestyle.

Learn About Crossover Training

If you’re already licensed as a Master Cosmetologist and want to become a Master Barber, or vice versa, Georgia allows for a crossover option.

Under Rule 240-7-.02 Cross-Over Licensing Requirements, a licensed Master Cosmetologist or Master Barber must complete 300 additional credit hours in a Board-approved cosmetology or barber school before taking the Master Barber exam or Master Cosmetologist exam.

Visit and Compare Schools in Person

Before enrolling, visit at least two or three schools in your area. During your visit:

Observe the classrooms and clinic areas
Ask how many students pass their state exams
Review job placement or apprenticeship opportunities
Request to talk to former students to see their opinion of their training

Taking time to compare programs can help you find the best fit for your goals and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to complete a cosmetology or barber program in Georgia?
Most programs take about 12–15 months full time. Part-time schedules may take longer.

Do Georgia schools offer online cosmetology or barber classes?
Some theory hours may be available online, but most practical training must be completed in person.

How do I verify a Georgia cosmetology or barber license?
Use the Georgia License Verification Search. Choose Business/Facility for schools or salons.

Ready to Begin?

Choosing the right cosmetology or barber school in Georgia is an exciting first step toward your new career. Whether you want to style hair, design nails, or train for a crossover license, the key is finding a Board-approved program that fits your career goals.

Georgia Cosmetology & Barber School Tour Checklist

Use this checklist when visiting schools to make sure you ask the right questions.

Download Checklist

The Basics

[ ] Is the school accredited (NACCAS, COE, etc.)?
[ ] Is the school approved by the Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers?
[ ] Does the school offer the specific program I want (Barbering, Cosmetology, Nails, Esthetics)?
[ ] What are the total program hours required?
[ ] What are the start dates for the next class?

Costs & Financial Aid

[ ] What is the total cost of tuition?
[ ] Are kits, books, and uniforms included in the cost?
[ ] Does the school accept Federal Financial Aid (FAFSA)?
[ ] Are there scholarship opportunities?
[ ] Does the school offer monthly payment plans?

Schedule & Attendance

[ ] Is the program full-time or part-time?
[ ] What are the daily class hours?
[ ] Are evening or weekend classes available?
[ ] What is the attendance policy?
[ ] How long will it take to graduate based on my schedule?

Education & Curriculum

[ ] What is the student-to-teacher ratio?
[ ] Do students get to practice on real clients?
[ ] What product lines does the school use?
[ ] Does the curriculum include business and marketing training?
[ ] What is the school’s state board exam pass rate?

Career Services

[ ] Does the school help with job placement?
[ ] Are there externship opportunities with local salons?
[ ] Does the school host career fairs or salon visits?

Facility Tour

[ ] Does the clinic floor look clean and professional?
[ ] Is the equipment modern and in good working order?
[ ] Do the students seem engaged and happy?
[ ] Is the atmosphere welcoming?