How Do I Get Financial Aid for Barber School

Becoming a barber can be both rewarding and fulfilling. It’s a unique opportunity that combines creativity, skill, personal interaction, and making people look – and feel – their best!

However, for many aspiring barbers, the cost of barber school can pose a significant hurdle. Fortunately, Barbers Trade School is committed to setting you up for success. Financial aid is available for those who qualify. We’re here to guide you through the steps to secure financial assistance for your barbering education and help ease the burden.

Understanding the Cost of Barber School

Before exploring financial aid options, it’s essential to understand the expenses associated with barber school. Along with tuition fees, get to know the institution, their program’s length, and location.

Additional costs may include textbooks, equipment, uniforms, and licensing fees. Don’t forget to include these expenses in your education budget.

Types of Financial Aid for Barber School

• Federal Financial Aid

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the cornerstone of financial aid in the United States. Completing the FAFSA is the first and most critical step in determining your eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs. Here’s how to navigate the process:

Visit the official FAFSA website and follow the instructions to complete the application. It’s recommended to complete the FAFSA promptly to access federal grants, work-study, and loans.

Upon submitting the FAFSA, you may qualify for various types of federal financial aid:

Pell Grants are federally funded and awarded to undergraduate students who demonstrate significant financial need. Eligibility is determined by submitting a FAFSA to the Department of Education. The award amount can vary for each student, with a maximum of $5,650 per academic year (900 hours).

The good news? Pell Grants do not need to be repaid and have no impact on your credit!

Supplemental Education Opportunity Grants (SEOG) are federally funded grants determined based on a student’s Expected Family Contribution, Cost of Attendance, and Enrollment Status. Limited funds are allocated to this program each year. Be sure to apply early to increase your chances of receiving this grant because the funds are granted on a first-come, first-served basis starting July 1 each year, with priority given to students with the highest need.

SEOGs are not affected by other aid sources and do not need to be repaid.

• Direct Subsidized Loans

Direct Subsidized Loans help manage educational expenses without the burden of interest accruing while you focus on your studies. They are available to students based on their financial need, as determined by the FAFSA and the school’s financial aid administrator.

The loans are interest-free while the student is enrolled at least half-time and during authorized grace and deferment periods. Students do not have to make payments while enrolled at least half-time, but they can opt to make regular or interest-only payments during this time. Interest accrues during repayment or forbearance periods.

• Direct Unsubsidized Loans

Direct Unsubsidized Loans offer students financial assistance without considering their financial need. Unlike subsidized loans, interest starts accruing immediately after disbursement; however, students can defer interest charges while enrolled at least half-time, during grace periods, and in deferment periods. Any deferred interest, however, is capitalized, which increases the total loan balance over time.

While repayment is not required during enrollment, students can choose to make interest-only or regular payments to manage costs more effectively. Eligibility is determined by the school’s financial aid administrator based on FAFSA submissions. This loan option provides flexibility, allowing students to finance their education while making informed decisions about managing interest accrual.

• Scholarships

Scholarships can be an excellent way to fund your beauty education at Barbers Trade School! Private grants and scholarships are available for students passionate about the beauty and barbering industry. Check out the options at Beauty Changes Lives, the Professional Beauty Association, and the American Association of Cosmetology Schools.

• Direct Parent PLUS Loans

Direct Parent PLUS Loans are long-term, low-interest federal loans designed to help parents cover the family contribution portion of their child’s educational costs. These loans are not need-based and are available to parents of undergraduate students, but approval depends on the borrower’s credit history. Parents at all income levels can apply, provided their child is enrolled at least half-time in an eligible program.

If a parent is denied a PLUS loan due to adverse credit, the dependent student may qualify for additional funds through the Unsubsidized Loan Program. This option provides families with an alternative means of financing education when other financial aid isn’t enough.

• Special Consideration

If extenuating circumstances impact a student’s financial eligibility, the student or their parents may request special consideration. To do so, submit a request to our Financial Aid Office and arrange for an in-person or phone interview. After the interview, follow up with an email to provide the necessary information. The advisor will then determine what additional documentation is required.

The Financial Aid Office at Barbers Trade School reviews these requests individually. You should think about asking for a review if you encounter issues like losing or having a reduction in employment, getting separated or divorced after filing FAFSA, uninsured medical or dental expenses, and other life events or challenges.

We Want You to Succeed

Barbers Trade School wants you to pursue your passion. If you need assistance with your application, our dedicated financial aid team is here to help you navigate your options. For personalized guidance, feel free to call us at (409)838-9094 or contact us—our team is ready to help you move forward and find the best fit for your needs. Contact us today to see how we can help you launch your journey with us!