Braiding is a subcategory of hairdressing that involves manipulating hair into intricate styles. To professionally braid hair, most states require a braiding license. Other states require only a cosmetology license.
What’s the difference between braiding and cosmetology school? Does cosmetology school teach braiding? Today, we answer those questions, and more.
Braiding School: What to Expect
Braiding school focuses on the principles of hair braiding. The curriculum teaches you how to perform different variations of braids: this includes cornrowing, weaving, twisting, and locking. Braiding school curriculum also covers hair texture management and scalp infection control.
Some hair braiding schools even teach you professional skills like business and client management. Of course, this depends on the school you go to and the program you enroll in.
Enrollment Requirements
Requirements depend on the school. However, all schools require an application process.
Costs
The cost of braiding school depends on the program you enroll in. The average cost of braiding school program ranges from $300 to $3,000 — excluding supplies.
Typically, financial aid does not pay for the cost of braiding school. But we offer assistance for low-income applicants.
Program Length
The length of a typical hair braiding program is 300 hours.
Cosmetology School: What to Expect
Unlike hair braiding school, cosmetology school covers a broader range of subjects.
Some of these subjects include hairstyling, makeup artistry, skincare treatments, nail technology, and esthetics.
Hair braiding is a skill that may or may not be taught in cosmetology school.
Enrollment Requirements
Requirements vary depending on the school and program. But most schools have an age requirement of 16 years old, 18 in some states.
Also, some states require a high school diploma or GED. If you aren’t a high school graduate, some cosmetology schools may require you to take supplementary courses.
Costs
The cost of cosmetology school depends on the program, but the average cost is no more than $10,000.
There are government grants and loans to cover costs —though, the school must be accredited. You will need to fill out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FASFA) to qualify.
Program Length
Since cosmetology school teaches a wide array of subjects, obtaining a cosmetology license will be significantly longer than a hair braiding license.
Program length requirements vary by state. According to the American Association of Cosmetology Schools (AACS), the national average for a full program is 1,500 hours.
Which License Do You Need to Braid Hair?
Certifications for hair braiding depends on the state. Some states require a full cosmetology license to professionally braid hair while others only require a braiding license.
Also, several states do not require any type of certification to braid hair.
For more information on hair braiding license requirements, visit BraidingFreedom.com
Is Hair Braiding School Worth It?
Investing in hair braiding school depends on your personal and professional goals. It is a great option if you want to specialize in braiding, locking, natural hair styling to expand your expertise. It also helps you to stay on top of new hairstyle trends and gain new clients.
Grow Your Skills With Zamora Natural Hair
Whether you want to learn how to braid or sharpen your skills, Zamora Natural Hair offers what you need and more.
We provide stellar hands-on training for natural hair care and styling. Our online and onsite braiding courses are flexible and allow you to learn at your own pace.
After completing a course, you will have increased confidence in your hair braiding ability.
If you’re ready to enroll, sign up here.