Okay, you've made the decision and you've chosen your career path.
Beauty School, here you come!
Now what??????

Following are several simple steps that you can take to get yourself started on the path to success in the field of Cosmetology.

1. Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This application is available online at www.fafsa.ed.gov This is a FREE application. Fill it out. Completing the application does not obligate you (or your parents) to any school or to the loan or Pell programs. The FAFSA is just a tool that allows us to tell you how much and what kind of financial aid is out there for you.
   
2. Ask your stylist to recommend a school. Don't have a stylist? Ask someone who owns a salon that you RESPECT and has a good reputation.
   
3. When considering a school, check the school's record with the state's Department of Professional Regulation (http://www.idfpr.com/)
4. Call and set up appointments with each school that you might be interested in attending. Don't be afraid to ask questions! Write down any impressions or thoughts that you had during the conversation.
5. Go to your scheduled appointment with a list of written questions and be prepared to write down the answers. Take someone with you. 4 eyes are better than 2! Parents, spouse, significant-other or a supportive friend will do nicely. Be sure you talk about your Financial Aid Package! It is important that you understand your financial aid package. Don't be afraid to ask questions, keep asking questions until you feel comfortable and you understand your financial responsibility to the school.
6. Immediately after your appointment write down your overall impressions about the school.
7. Look over all the information you have gathered and it's time to make your decision.

There are many factors that may be important to you. Here are a few considerations not to forget!
1. Does the school participate in the Federal Financial Aid program (grants and low interest, fixed rate loans through the U.S. Department of Education)?
2. Is the school nationally accredited?
3. If I have a question about my education or financial aid is there someone, on site, to help me?
4. Will I receive a quality education?
5. Does the school care about me and my success as a cosmetologist?