At the heart of the cosmetology industry is the idea of giving back to help move the community forward. That’s why various foundations and nonprofit organizations work to fund scholarships for current and prospective cosmetology students to help pay for educational expenses.
Earning licensure at an accredited cosmetology school can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $20,000, depending on the location and reputation of the program. To earn financial support from the beauty community itself, here are six scholarships current or prospective cosmetology students can apply for right now.
Miller Foundation: Arnold M. Miller-Find-A-Way Scholarship

The Sydell and Arnold Miller Foundation provides their annual “Find-A-Way” Scholarship as an ode to Arnie M. Miller’s “Find-A-Way Attitude” in business and his life. The Miller Foundation states, “ If you have a “Find-A-Way Attitude” in your life and career, this is the scholarship for you.”
This scholarship offers one (1) Tuition Scholarship, up to $15,000 for new and currently enrolled students 18 years and older in a cosmetology program with proof of acceptance/enrollment at an accredited institution.
Apply here with three photos of your artistic work and a short video submission by February 28, 2023.
Miller Foundation: Sydell & Arnold Miller The “Art of Haircutting”

The “Art of Haircutting” Scholarship, funded by The Sydell and Arnold Miller Foundation, is reserved for students that love hair cutting, recognized as the “true architecture aspect of cosmetology.”
This scholarship offers one (1) tuition scholarship, up to $5,000 for new and currently enrolled students 18 years and older in a cosmetology program with proof of acceptance/enrollment at an accredited institution.
Apply here with three photos showcasing artistic hair cutting work and a short video submission by February 28, 2023.
Miller Foundation: Sydell & Arnold Miller The “Art of Haircoloring”
This scholarship, funded by The Sydell and Arnold Miller Foundation, is intended for students that have a deep love and passion for hair coloring; The Miller Foundation believes hair coloring to be one of the “most creative and exciting services salons offer”, offering a fun way for students to express creative vision and artistic skills.
The “Art of Haircoloring” Scholarship offers one (1) tuition scholarship, up to $5,000 for new and currently enrolled students 18 years and older in a cosmetology program with proof of acceptance/enrollment at an accredited institution.
Apply with three before and after photos of artistic hair coloring work and a short video submission here by February 28, 2023.
Miller Foundation: Sydell & Arnold Miller The “Art of Hairdressing”

This scholarship, funded by the The Sydell and Arnold Miller Foundation, focuses specifically on hairstyling and dressing; if you enjoy bridal, prom or special occasion hair styling, you are encouraged to apply!
This scholarship offers one (1) tuition scholarship, up to $5,000 for new and currently enrolled students 18 years and older in a cosmetology program with proof of acceptance/enrollment at an accredited institution.
Apply with three before and after photos of artistic hairdressing work and a short video submission here by February 28, 2023.
Beauty Changes Lives – BIPOC Cosmetology/Barbering Student Scholarship
The Beauty Changes Lives Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the empowerment of beauty professional students through scholarships, mentorships and advanced education. This scholarship is specifically reserved for students in the cosmetology and/or barbering space who identify as Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC).
The Beauty Changes Lives Foundation is offering three scholarships in total: one (1) $15,000 Cosmetology/Barbering Student Scholarship and two (2) $5,000 Cosmetology/Barbering Student Scholarships. Applicants must be 18 years of age by the start date of the chosen program and is open to new or currently enrolled students working towards licensure at an accredited institution in the U.S.
Apply with an online application and a short video submission here by February 28, 2023.
Beauty & Wellness Professionals Scholarship
BeautySchoolsDirectory.com is offering a 2023 scholarship for students and professionals “changing others’ lives through wellness and beauty”. For those ready to begin a career in the beauty and wellness industry or continuing education, this scholarship can be earned to apply toward tuition and educational expenses.
This scholarship offers one (1) $2,500 scholarship to students currently enrolled, or planning to enroll, in an eligible program within the United States. Students must be currently enrolled in one (or more) of the following accredited programs: Cosmetology, Esthetics, Massage Therapy, Barbering, Electrology, Laser Hair Removal, or Trichology, Hair Design or Hair Braiding, Makeup Artistry or Permanent Makeup, Nail Technology, Salon Management or Cosmetology Teaching.
Winners are selected based on the inspiration for choosing said career path, intended impact in the selected field and overall thoughtfulness/accuracy of the application. The selection committee wants to have a deep understanding of what inspired students to pursue careers in the beauty and wellness space.
Apply with an online application and short essay responses here by March 1, 2023.