After completing cosmetology or esthetician training, there’s only one thing left to do: complete the state board exam. This isn’t just another test; it’s the key to your professionalism and legitimacy as a hair stylist and esthetician.
You‘ve Learned a Lot in Beauty School—Now It’s Time To Test Your Knowledge
Your journey as a beauty school student is coming to an end, which may be a bittersweet feeling. While you’re finally finished with training, going out into the real world of beauty could also make you feel all sorts of emotions all at once. However, after you’ve completed your last class, there’s one final step you must take before you’re eligible to work as a cosmetologist or esthetician at a salon: pass the state board exam.
Your state board exam governs the trajectory of your career. If you pass, you can move forward to the phase of your life as a professional cosmetologist, opening the door to endless possibilities.
How To Prepare and Plan for the State Board Exam
Although the exam is a pretty big deal, you shouldn’t worry or stress. Don’t doubt everything you’ve learned and all the experience you’ve gained during training. On the same token, you should still prepare yourself for what’s in store. There are a few things you should know that’ll help the test-taking process go a lot smoother from start to finish.
Local Licensing Requirements
Each state has various licensing requirements. In neighboring states like Tennessee and Georgia, you may take the state board exam after completing at least 1,500 hours of cosmetology training. Test takers must also be mindful of:
Exam Deadlines
Don’t wait too long after you’re finished with cosmetology courses. It’s vital to get the exact deadline from your instructor, which is usually within six months. It’s better to take the exam sooner than later and study as much as possible up until the day of the test.
Fees
In Tennessee, the full cosmetology or esthetician exam costs $140. Examination fees are paid directly to PSI Examination Service. If you plan to mail them your payment, take note that they only accept cashier’s checks and money orders. Otherwise, you may make an electronic payment on their website.
Two Parts to the Test: Written and Practical
Expect the state board exam to cover things like scientific concepts, hair care and services, skin care and services, and nail care and services. You should also know that the test is divided into two parts: written and practical. In addition to about 100 multiple choice questions, test takers must also provide brief yet detailed answers.
Brillare Prepares Its Students for Greatness From the Start
There’s no better place than Brillare to earn your Tennessee cosmetology license. We’re a nonprofit organization that puts its students’ needs first. Even if you know you need our assistance before you even step foot in the door, we’re here to guide you through the financial aid process graciously. When you’re accepted into our program, you feel a sense of belonging, pride, and passion from day one. Brillare instructors and administrators take you under their wing and assist you with finding your footing in a new environment.
We know each of our students is made to thrive. So when it comes to helping you study for your state board practical exam or study for the cosmetology written exam, we’re here to help you buckle down and retain the information through practice, repetition, and words of encouragement. Our critiques help continuously build you up until you believe in the professional beauty expert you were meant to be. Brillare is the perfect place for you to evolve as a cosmetologist or esthetician.
We don’t want anything to hold you back. Even if you feel restricted by your finances, we offer assistance with financial aid to help lighten the load, allowing you to focus on what matters most: being the best student you can be.
We look forward to welcoming you into our beauty institute. Call and speak with our administrators today.
