If you're dreaming of a career in cosmetology, esthetics, or nail technology in the Los Angeles area, one of the first questions you might have is: "Do I need a high school diploma to attend beauty school?" It's a common concern, and the good news is that California's requirements might be more flexible than you think.
California state law only requires completion of the 10th grade to get your license..
However, accredited schools, including Beyond 21st Century Beauty Academy, often require high school equivalency - usually a high school diploma or equivalent (such as a GED).
The California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology (BBC) sets the minimum educational standards for beauty professionals in the state. Here's what you need to know:
To apply for a cosmetology, esthetician, or nail technician license in California, state law requires that you:
As an accredited institution, Beyond 21st Century Beauty Academy requires all students to have a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent prior to enrollment. This is a requirement of our accreditation, which also means:
While some California beauty schools may only require 10th-grade completion, our accreditation requires at least a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent. Some common alternatives that are acceptable are the HiSET exam, an associate's or bachelor's degree, or a validated and translated foreign diploma.
Accreditation also unlocks the ability for students to apply for Federal Financial Aid (FAFSA). This means you can apply for:
Our admissions team can help you navigate the financial aid application process and explore all available funding options to make your beauty education affordable.
Don't let the lack of a diploma stop you from pursuing your beauty career dreams. Here are your pathways to enrolling at Beyond 21st Century Beauty Academy:
GED testing is available throughout Los Angeles County, with testing centers in Whittier, Downey, Norwalk, and other nearby communities. The process is straightforward:
Our admissions team can provide you with local GED resources and answer any questions about the process.
If you're currently enrolled in high school, stay the course! Completing your diploma is a valuable achievement that will serve you throughout your career.
If you're still working on your diploma or GED, you can:
Once you complete your training, you'll need to pass the California state licensing exams to work professionally.
You'll need to:
Starting your beauty education at Beyond 21st Century Beauty Academy in Santa Fe Springs offers several advantages for students throughout Los Angeles County:
While California state law only requires 10th-grade completion to attend beauty school, Beyond 21st Century Beauty Academy requires a high school diploma or GED as part of our accreditation. This requirement also means eligible individuals can apply for federal financial aid.
If you don't have your diploma or GED yet, it's an achievable goal, and we're here to answer any questions about the process. Once you have it, you'll be ready to start your training in cosmetology, esthetics, or nail technology. Alternatively, you can try an approved but unaccredited option at another institution.
If you're ready to turn your love of beauty into a career, we're here to help you take that first step.
Have questions about enrolling in one of our programs? Want to schedule a tour of our facility? We'd love to hear from you. Your beauty career is closer than you think, and we're here to support you every step of the way.
This blog post is for informational purposes only. Requirements may change, and individual circumstances may vary. We recommend contacting our admissions team directly to discuss your specific situation and educational goals.
