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Hair Schools in Indiana

Looking to start a career in hair? Indiana is a great place to become a hairstylist! Here are some of the benefits of becoming a hairstylist in the state of Indiana:

  • Great hair schools: Indiana is home to some great hair schools that can help you get started on your hair career.
  • Flexibility: Many stylists have the ability to set their own hours, work from home, and be their own boss.
  • The pay is good: Hairstylists in Indiana, on average, make over $15 per hour. This means that you can earn a good living as a hairstylist in Indiana.

If this sounds appealing, we’re here to help. We’ve compiled a list of hair schools near you in Indiana to assess which one is a good fit for you. Also, we answer many other common questions you may have about how to become a licensed hairstylist in Indiana.

Hair Schools in Indiana ­­

What are the state requirements for hairstylists in Indiana?

To become a hairstylist in Indiana you’ll need to jump over a few hurdles. The Indiana Professional Licensing Agency sets forth the requirements which include:

  • 18 years old, or 17 years old with a high school degree or degree equivalent
  • Complete 1,500 hours at an approved beauty culture school
  • Pay a $40 application fee
  • Proof from test provider PSI that you’ve passed your written exam
  • You may have to provide additional documentation if you have prior convictions on your record or changed your name in the past

How Much Does Hair School Cost in Indiana?

The average cost for a cosmetology program or hair school in Indiana is a little lower than most states, with an average cost coming in around $16,600 according to the website collegetuitioncompare.com. You should be able to find programs with tuition as low as $11,000 while others may run up to $17,000 or more. As you add up total costs, be sure to factor in books and supplies, which typically cost a little more than $2,000.

Required Skills and Classes

When you attend hair school in Indiana, you’ll also be learning a variety of cosmetology skills. Expect hands-on education in everything from skincare, nail care, and makeup application as well as courses on hairstyling, trimming, and more. Beyond the basics of hair care, you’ll go into the biology and physiology of hair, and advanced techniques like hair coloring, hair dyeing, salon curling, straightening, and more.

Outside of technique, you’ll also learn many business skills. This will cover everything from marketing to bookkeeping and managing staff. You’ll also learn soft skills, like how to communicate and build relationships with clients while also learning about important safety and legal topics hairstylists need to be aware of.

State Licensing Exam

Indiana’s state licensure exam is administered by Pearson VUE, a national testing agency. You can find the exam handbook if you want to see everything the exam entails. It’s a one-part, written exam that includes 110 questions to be finished in 135 minutes. The test covers a variety of topics including but not limited to:

  • Hair coloring and bleaching
  • Haircutting
  • Styling
  • Shampooing
  • Hair types
  • Nails
  • Esthetics
  • Client contact
  • Proper disinfection and sanitation
  • Safety

The cost to take the exam is $48. If you fail and need to re-take the exam, you’ll have to pay the fee again.

How Much Do Hairstylists Make in Indiana?

Indiana’s hairstylists have an average pay that ranks 35th in the United States. The average annual salary, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, was $31,320 as of May 2021. That works out to an average of $15.06 per hour.

Does Indiana Have Continuing Education Requirements for Hairstylists?
Indiana does not have any continuing education requirements. However, it’s not a bad idea to take courses occasionally to update your knowledge and learn new techniques, styles, and trends. While there are no continuing education requirements, hair designers do need to renew their license and pay a $40 fee every four years by August 1st.

Contact Information for Licensing Board

The Indiana Professional Licensing Agency manages licenses for cosmetologists and barbers in the state. If you have questions for them, you can reach them using the contact information below.

Website: Indiana Professional Licensing Agency
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (317) 234-3031