Top10 bestbeautyschoolsinnewyork.com
UPDATED FOR JANUARY 2026

The Top 10 Beauty Schools Providers in New York

New York's leading beauty schools

See the Top 10
Editor Researcher
Expert Editorial Team Stewie Davis
Beauty Schools

150+

Companies Reviewed

About Best Beauty Schools

Empowering your beauty education journey with transparent insights and expert rankings, ensuring you make informed decisions for a brighter future in beauty.

Customer Reviews 40%
We analyze customer reviews from multiple trusted platforms to assess real-world satisfaction with Beauty Schools providers.
Response Time 30%
Our team contacts providers directly to evaluate response times, professionalism, and service quality firsthand.
Licensing 20%
We verify licenses, certifications, and professional credentials to ensure Beauty Schools providers meet industry standards.
Price Transparency 10%
We assess whether Beauty Schools providers offer clear upfront pricing without hidden fees or surprise charges.

Our Approach

  • Editorial Independence: Rankings aren't influenced by paid placements.
  • Public Data: We aggregate reviews from multiple sources.
  • Regular Updates: Rankings are refreshed periodically.

The Top 10 List

Brought to you by the Editorial Board of Best Beauty Schools

5-Star Service
#1
Arrojo Academy

Arrojo Academy

4.9 (142 reviews)
Comprehensive programs that cover a wide range of topics, including cosmetology, barbering, and advanced esthetics, allowing students to gain a well-rounded education. Flexible scheduling options including full-time, part-time, evening, and weekend courses, accommodating various lifestyles and commitments. Hands-on training in a dynamic learning environment, emphasizing practical skills that are immediately applicable in the beauty industry.

Editor's Summary

What people are saying: #CuttingEdge #Inspiring #Accessible

The Analysis

Pros
  • Comprehensive programs that cover a wide range of topics, including cosmetology, barbering, and advanced esthetics, allowing students to gain a well-rounded education.
  • Flexible scheduling options including full-time, part-time, evening, and weekend courses, accommodating various lifestyles and commitments.
Cons
  • Higher tuition fees compared to competitors like American Beauty Institute, which may limit accessibility for some students.

Composite Feedback

Representative excerpts based on common themes from verified customer reviews. Not direct quotes.

The deep conditioning treatment left my hair incredibly smooth and shiny, and the haircut perfectly shaped and lengthened my look. I couldn't be happier with my experience at Arrojo Academy!
I came in for a glam squad blowout, and the results were fantastic! My hair has never looked healthier or more vibrant thanks to the amazing services at Arrojo Academy.
5-Star Service
#2
American Beauty Institute

American Beauty Institute

4.8 (98 reviews)
Located in midtown Manhattan, providing students with easy access to a vibrant urban environment and potential job opportunities in the beauty industry. Offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes specialized training in Hairdressing, Esthetics, Nail, and Waxing, ensuring a well-rounded education. Faculty consists of licensed professionals with real-world experience, which enhances the quality of instruction and mentorship for students.

Editor's Summary

What people are saying: #IndustryLeaders #Inclusive #HandsOnExperience

The Analysis

Pros
  • Located in midtown Manhattan, providing students with easy access to a vibrant urban environment and potential job opportunities in the beauty industry.
  • Offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes specialized training in Hairdressing, Esthetics, Nail, and Waxing, ensuring a well-rounded education.
Cons
  • Tuition may be higher than some competitors like Empire Beauty School, which could be a barrier for some potential students.

Composite Feedback

Representative excerpts based on common themes from verified customer reviews. Not direct quotes.

American Beauty Institute is an exceptional esthetic school with affordable tuition that truly delivers a great education.
The instructors provide valuable insights into various hair textures, ensuring I always leave feeling satisfied with my experience.
Established
#3
Empire Beauty School

Empire Beauty School

4.7 (215 reviews)
Offers a comprehensive range of programs including cosmetology, esthetics/aesthetics, and educator training, which may not be as widely available at other schools. Provides detailed financial aid information on their website, helping students navigate funding options more effectively than some competitors. Engages potential students through events like the Experience Day Event, allowing for hands-on exposure to the school and its offerings, unlike many other beauty schools.

Editor's Summary

What people are saying: #ComprehensiveTraining #AccessibleEducation #ProactiveEngagement

The Analysis

Pros
  • Offers a comprehensive range of programs including cosmetology, esthetics/aesthetics, and educator training, which may not be as widely available at other schools.
  • Provides detailed financial aid information on their website, helping students navigate funding options more effectively than some competitors.
Cons
  • Located primarily in the Northeast region, which may limit accessibility for students from other areas compared to schools with multiple locations nationwide.

Composite Feedback

Representative excerpts based on common themes from verified customer reviews. Not direct quotes.

I can't thank Alyssa enough for her amazing work at Empire Beauty School. She truly saved the day when I was in a panic before my daughter's wedding!
Graduating from Empire Beauty School was a fantastic experience! The dedicated teachers really prepared me for success, setting me up to ace my exams.
#4
Beauty Academy New York

Beauty Academy New York

4.6 (86 reviews)
Offers a wide range of specialized courses such as microblading and non-surgical nose jobs, which may not be available at other academies. Emphasizes a hands-on learning experience with a structured approach where students practice on mannequins before moving to real clients, ensuring practical skills are effectively developed. Maintains small class sizes that allow for individualized attention from instructors, enhancing the learning experience compared to larger schools.

Editor's Summary

What people are saying: #CuttingEdgeTraining #PersonalizedLearning #IndustryLeaders

The Analysis

Pros
  • Offers a wide range of specialized courses such as microblading and non-surgical nose jobs, which may not be available at other academies.
  • Emphasizes a hands-on learning experience with a structured approach where students practice on mannequins before moving to real clients, ensuring practical skills are effectively developed.
Cons
  • Located exclusively in Queens, which may limit accessibility for students from other regions compared to schools with multiple campuses across the country.

Composite Feedback

Representative excerpts based on common themes from verified customer reviews. Not direct quotes.

Choosing Beauty Academy New York was the best decision I've made; the professionalism and expertise of the instructors truly stand out.
As a student at TriBeCa, I've been impressed by the high quality of education and the supportive environment that makes learning enjoyable.
#5
Bliss Beauty Academy

Bliss Beauty Academy

4.5 (54 reviews)
Comprehensive course offerings including makeup application, brow architecture, and advanced beauty techniques, making it a one-stop destination for aspiring beauty professionals. A proven track record of training and certifying over 5000 students globally, which enhances the academy's credibility and reputation in the beauty education landscape. Operates six days a week, providing flexible learning opportunities that accommodate various schedules for students.

Editor's Summary

What people are saying: #Innovative #Inclusive #Reputable

The Analysis

Pros
  • Comprehensive course offerings including makeup application, brow architecture, and advanced beauty techniques, making it a one-stop destination for aspiring beauty professionals.
  • A proven track record of training and certifying over 5000 students globally, which enhances the academy's credibility and reputation in the beauty education landscape.
Cons
  • Higher tuition costs compared to some competitors, which may deter budget-conscious students.

Composite Feedback

Representative excerpts based on common themes from verified customer reviews. Not direct quotes.

Bliss Beauty Academy is a gem! The stylists are incredibly skilled, and I left feeling fabulous after my haircut by Massie.
I had a fantastic experience at Bliss Beauty Academy. The atmosphere is relaxed, and the stylists truly know their craft.
#6
The Lia Schorr Institute

The Lia Schorr Institute

4.4 (30 reviews)
Offers small, personalized classes that enhance individual learning experiences compared to larger institutions like Empire Beauty School. Utilizes cutting-edge equipment and technologies that provide students with hands-on experience in advanced esthetics and skin care management.
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Editor's Summary

What people are saying: #IndustryLeader #CareerFocused #StateOfTheArt

The Analysis

Pros
  • Offers small, personalized classes that enhance individual learning experiences compared to larger institutions like Empire Beauty School.
  • Utilizes cutting-edge equipment and technologies that provide students with hands-on experience in advanced esthetics and skin care management.
Cons
  • Limited to the Northeast region, which may restrict access for students from other parts of the country.

Composite Feedback

Representative excerpts based on common themes from verified customer reviews. Not direct quotes.

The facials at The Lia Schorr Institute are exceptional, delivered with professionalism and offered at fair prices-perfect for those who appreciate quality over luxury.
I appreciated the flexibility in my esthetics course, allowing me to learn at my own pace, something no other school was willing to accommodate.
#7
Brittany Beauty Academy

Brittany Beauty Academy

4.3 (45 reviews)
Over 50 years of experience in beauty education, providing a strong legacy and trust in program quality. Partnerships with industry leaders like Matrix and Dermalogica, ensuring students receive top-notch products and techniques in their training.
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Editor's Summary

What people are saying: #TransformativeEducation #CommittedToSuccess #IndustryLeader

The Analysis

Pros
  • Over 50 years of experience in beauty education, providing a strong legacy and trust in program quality.
  • Partnerships with industry leaders like Matrix and Dermalogica, ensuring students receive top-notch products and techniques in their training.
Cons
  • Primarily focused on the Northeast region, limiting geographical accessibility for students outside of New York.

Composite Feedback

Representative excerpts based on common themes from verified customer reviews. Not direct quotes.

I've been coming to Brittany Beauty Academy for years and have always been impressed by the quality of service provided by the students. It's a fantastic experience every time I visit!
The students at Brittany Beauty Academy consistently deliver exceptional services, making each visit a delight. I couldn't be happier with my experiences here!
#8
Atelier Esthetique Institute of Esthetics

Atelier Esthetique Institute of Esthetics

4.2 (22 reviews)
Offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes both esthetician licensing and specialized courses such as microdermabrasion and aromatherapy, providing a wider range of skills compared to many competitors.
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Editor's Summary

What people are saying: #Empowering #CuttingEdge #CareerFocused

The Analysis

Pros
  • Offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes both esthetician licensing and specialized courses such as microdermabrasion and aromatherapy, providing a wider range of skills compared to many competitors.
Cons
  • Higher tuition costs compared to some competitors like Empire Beauty School or American Beauty Institute, which may deter budget-conscious students.

Composite Feedback

Representative excerpts based on common themes from verified customer reviews. Not direct quotes.

My experience at Atelier Esthetique has been quite positive; the curriculum is thorough and the instructors are genuinely dedicated to our success.
The hands-on training and supportive atmosphere at Atelier Esthetique truly prepare you for a career in esthetics.
#9
Modern international Beauty School

Modern international Beauty School

4.1 (15 reviews)
Offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes specialized programs in Natural Hairstyling and Waxing, which are not commonly found in many other beauty schools.
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Editor's Summary

What people are saying: #ComprehensiveTraining #CareerFocused #InnovativeEducation

The Analysis

Pros
  • Offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes specialized programs in Natural Hairstyling and Waxing, which are not commonly found in many other beauty schools.
Cons
  • Currently limited to the Brooklyn area, which may not be convenient for students residing outside of New York City.

Composite Feedback

Representative excerpts based on common themes from verified customer reviews. Not direct quotes.

Modern International Beauty School has truly exceeded my expectations! The instructors are knowledgeable and supportive, making the learning experience both enjoyable and enriching.
I couldn't be happier with my decision to attend this school. The hands-on training and welcoming atmosphere have really helped me grow my skills in the beauty industry.
#10
The Makeup Academy

The Makeup Academy

4.0 (10 reviews)
Innovative curriculum that focuses on the latest trends and techniques in makeup artistry, ensuring students are industry-ready.
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Editor's Summary

What people are saying: #Innovative #CareerFocused #ExpertGuidance

The Analysis

Pros
  • Innovative curriculum that focuses on the latest trends and techniques in makeup artistry, ensuring students are industry-ready.
Cons
  • Higher tuition costs compared to other local beauty schools like Empire Beauty School and American Beauty Institute.

Composite Feedback

Representative excerpts based on common themes from verified customer reviews. Not direct quotes.

Ana is an incredible teacher who generously shares her expertise, making the learning experience truly enjoyable and enriching.
Completing the three-week hair course not only enhanced my skills as a makeup artist but also opened up new opportunities for earning with clients.

Before You Hire

Key considerations when evaluating providers in this industry.

1

Maintain a global footprint, offering education to students on an international level

2

A minimum of ten years as an establishment

3

A minimum of 500 graduates in the previous five years

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications do I need to get into a beauty school? +

Entry into a beauty school typically requires a high school diploma or GED. Some schools may also require a personal interview, a written essay, or previous work experience in the beauty industry. As beauty schools vary in their admission requirements, potential students should research specific schools to ensure they meet the criteria.

How long do beauty school programs typically last? +

Beauty school programs vary in length depending on the specific course of study, but most full-time programs typically last between 9 to 15 months. For instance, a cosmetology program can take around 12 months to complete full-time, while a shorter esthetics program might only take 6 months. The duration may extend if the course is pursued part-time or if the school offers advanced or specialized programs.

What kind of hands-on experience can I expect to receive at beauty school? +

At a reputable beauty school, students can anticipate a blend of classroom learning and practical application. They'll engage in real-world salon experiences, offering services such as haircuts, color treatments, and skincare to actual customers under the supervision of licensed educators. This hands-on experience helps build essential skills and confidence, but it's important to consider that the amount and type of practical experience can vary between schools.

Are there online beauty school programs available? +

Yes, there are online beauty school programs available for those seeking flexibility in their education. These programs, such as Aveda Institute's Online Cosmetology Course or Penn Foster's Online Career School, offer a variety of courses in makeup, skincare, and hair styling, among others. However, it's important to remember that certain practical skills may require in-person training, and online programs often have partnerships with local salons for this purpose.

How much does it typically cost to attend a beauty school? +

The cost of attending a beauty school varies significantly, largely dependent on the type of program, the school's reputation, and geographic location. On average, tuition can range from $5,000 to $20,000, however, some high-end schools charge up to $30,000 or more. Be aware that additional costs for supplies, books, and fees are usually not included in the tuition price.

Are there financial aid options available for beauty school students? +

Yes, financial aid options are indeed available for students who aspire to attend beauty schools. Many schools offer a variety of scholarships, grants, and loans, and some even provide work-study opportunities. Additionally, federal student aid is available for accredited beauty schools, which can help to cover tuition and other associated costs. It is important for prospective students to research each school's specific financial aid offerings and eligibility requirements to find the best fit for their circumstances.

What kind of career opportunities can I pursue after graduating from beauty school? +

Graduating from a beauty school opens up a variety of career paths. Many graduates become hairstylists, make-up artists, or estheticians, working in salons, spas, or even in the film and television industry. Others may choose to work as beauty consultants or sales representatives for cosmetic companies, while some may decide to open their own salon or spa. A smaller number may go into teaching, sharing their skills with the next generation of beauty professionals.

What is the difference between a beauty school and a cosmetology school? +

A beauty school offers a broader curriculum covering a range of beauty treatments like makeup, hair styling, skincare, and often includes some general business training. In contrast, a cosmetology school is more specialized, focusing primarily on hair, including cutting, coloring, and styling. While both provide valuable training for a career in the beauty industry, the choice between them typically depends on the specific career goals of the student.

Are there beauty schools in New York that offer specialized programs? +

Yes, numerous beauty schools in New York provide specialized programs. The Aveda Institute, for instance, has a specific focus on holistic wellness and environmental responsibility in addition to traditional beauty training. Meanwhile, the Make-Up Designory in Soho offers programs specifically designed for aspiring makeup artists. These are just two examples, and potential students should research thoroughly to find the school with the specialty program that best suits their career goals.

What is the average class size at beauty schools in New York? +

The average class size at beauty schools in New York varies, but it typically ranges from 15 to 25 students. This size allows for a balanced learning environment that fosters individual attention from instructors, but also enables peer interaction and collaborative learning. However, the exact class size can depend on the specific school and program, with some schools offering smaller classes for more specialized courses.