How Much Does Esthetics School Cost?

If you enjoy helping others feel their best, then you may be considering a career as an esthetician. Esthetics can be an extremely rewarding career path, as you get to learn how to use specialized products and techniques to help people achieve smooth, glowing skin, helping them feel more confident about themselves. However, before you can become an esthetician, you must first go to esthetics school, undergo rigorous training, and eventually pass a two-part esthetician licensing exam. While the prospect of going to esthetics school can be exciting, you may also find yourself feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about how much an esthetician program could cost. To help you feel more prepared as you start researching esthetics schools, keep reading as we take a deeper look at the cost of esthetics school and the factors that can influence your overall costs.  

Average Cost of Esthetician School

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, since the cost of esthetics school varies by location, program length, and what’s included in tuition. Most esthetics programs across the U.S. require between 600–750 hours of training, with program costs ranging anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000.

At David Pressley School of Cosmetology, we’re proud to offer programs designed to give you hands-on training at a price that’s competitive and accessible. While costs can vary, our admissions team is here to provide you with a clear breakdown so you know exactly what to expect. 

Tuition Fees

Your biggest expense will be tuition. On average, esthetics tuition nationwide runs between $6,000 and $12,000. Tuition at David Pressley includes the high-quality education you’ll need to prepare for Michigan’s state licensing requirements, plus valuable hands-on experience working with real clients in our student salon and spa.

The good news? Financial aid is available for those who qualify, and we can help you explore grants, scholarships, and payment plan options.

Books and Kits Fee

Every esthetics student will need a professional kit that includes the tools and products you’ll use throughout your training. These kits usually cost between $1,000 and $2,000. At David Pressley, we provide students with industry-relevant tools so you’re practicing with the same equipment you’ll use after graduation.

 Additional Fees

Be prepared for application and registration fees, which typically range between $100 and $300. Some schools also require uniforms. At David Pressley, our admissions team will provide you with a transparent cost sheet upfront so there are no surprises. 

State Licensing Fees

After completing your esthetics program, you’ll need to pass Michigan’s state board exams to earn your esthetician license. Licensing fees generally cost between $150–$200, plus renewal fees every few years. We’ll help you prepare with exam-ready training so you feel confident on test day.

Factors That Can Influence Your Esthetics School Costs

When it comes to budgeting for esthetics school, several factors can impact your final investment:

• Program Length: At David Pressley, full-time students can complete their esthetics training in as little as 6 months, while part-time students may take longer depending on their schedule.
• Location: Schools in larger cities often charge more due to higher living costs. Fortunately, with our campuses in Royal Oak and Taylor, Michigan, you can benefit from a high-quality education at a more affordable price than big-city programs.
• Financial Aid & Scholarships: Your out-of-pocket costs may be much lower if you qualify for federal financial aid, grants, or school-based scholarships. Our financial aid advisors are here to walk you through the process step by step.

Why Choose David Pressley School of Cosmetology?

When you choose David Pressley for your esthetics education, you’re not just enrolling in a program—you’re joining a supportive community dedicated to your success. Here’s what makes us stand out:

• Hands-On Experience: Practice with real clients in our student spa to build confidence and skill.
• Flexible Scheduling: Choose from full-time or part-time options to fit school into your lifestyle.
• Experienced Instructors: Learn from professionals with years of experience in esthetics and skin care.
• Career Support: From preparing for your licensing exam to connecting you with industry opportunities, we’re invested in your future.

Contact David Pressley School of Cosmetology to Start Your Esthetics School Journey Today!

If you’re interested in a career in esthetics, but you’re concerned about how much esthetician school would cost, feel free to contact the David Pressley School of Cosmetology today to learn more. We can walk you through the costs of becoming an esthetician, talk about your financial aid* options, and help you decide if esthetics school may be right for you.

*financial aid is only available to those who qualify