Selecting the best cosmetology training that will meet your individual needs and desires can be a daunting task. What do I look for? Will I fit in? Will I be happy there and will I learn the skills I need in order to thrive in my future cosmetology business/career.

The most efficient way to choose a cosmetology school is to make a complete list of questions to ask each school's admissions advisor. Since every potential student has their own unique set of goals when choosing a cosmetology training program in Seattle, it is important to have your particular questions answered by the cosmetology school's admissions advisor.

Below are examples of important questions you may want to ask:
Do they have a salon for students to practice hands-on cutting and styling techniques? Is this a professionally run salon?
Do they teach by using mannequin heads or real models?
Is there financial aid or scholarships available?
Do they offer an in person interview with a financial services advisor?
What are the payment terms?
Do they offer references from former students at the particular school?
Do they offer a one on one meeting with an admissions advisor so you can learn more about the school?
Does the school focus on the skills needed to pass the cosmetology license exam?

Is the school accredited? If the school is accredited it has met the academic requirements of the cosmetology school accrediting organizations. Accreditation occurs only after the school in mention has completely fulfilled all the national standards of educational performance required by the nongovernmental agency. For more information contact NACCAS at: http://www.naccas.org

Does the school provide Professional and Business training that go beyond the basic level of hair styling or coloring? The best schools provide lessons in the business aspect of the industry along with how to be a consummate professional. Does the school provide the necessary training to complete the requirement for licensure in the state of Washington? In Washington State, a cosmetologist must be at least 17 years of age and a graduate from a school approved and licensed by the Department of Licensing with the minimum required state hours or successfully complete a state approved apprenticeship training program and pass the state-approved National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology written and practical examinations. The minimum required number of hours is 1600 for a Cosmetologist, 1000 hours for Barber, 600 hours for Manicurist and 600 hours for an Esthetician. The minimum number of hours for an approved apprenticeship training program is 3000 hours for a Cosmetologist, 2000 hours for a Barber, 2000 hours for a Manicurist and 2000 hours for an Esthetician.

Finally, does the school assist in finding work for my chosen field after graduation? Inquire as to what percentage graduates find work after program gradation and of those graduates where do they find work and what the average starting salary is. Being prepared with these important questions will enable you to make an informed decision for the cosmetology school in Seattle that will best meet your needs.