Navigating any professional career starts with securing the right education. But, financial hardship from education is real.
Last year, the Biden administration introduced the loan forgiveness problem to tackle the issue of educational debt. Planning your finances properly before embarking on a course is essential to avoid future debt.
There are lots of choices you can make to lower the financial impact. If you intend to join a barbering course, learn five tips to help you save money on the cost of barber school right here first.
1. Scholarships and Grants
You can lessen the financial burden of barber school by exploring scholarships. Many charity organizations and foundations offer scholarships and grants each year. Some provide partial funding, and a few will offer full funding.
Look for ones specific to barbers and cosmetologists. They can help make education more accessible for those on a tight budget.
The trick to securing one of these sought-after scholarships is to search and apply early. It will maximize your odds of getting the award.
2. Try a Part-Time Course
The flexibility of a part-time course can help you juggle earning money with education. Many online courses exist, so you can study when it suits you, such as in the evenings.
That makes them a more affordable option for students who can’t afford to quit their day job to pursue a new career. Online options also come at a lower cost than in-person education, which can reduce your expenses when paying for school.
3. Apply for Financial Aid
You could apply for financial aid to help cover barber college costs.
Federal Student Aid is means-tested, so you must show evidence you need the funds. It will also offer loans or grants depending on your circumstances. To get access to this financial support, you’ll need to apply via an online form.
For a loan, you’ll need to complete loan counseling to ensure you understand the terms and nature of a financial loan. You’ll also need to have a plan to pay the money back.
4. Try an Apprenticeship
There are other routes into a barbering career that will help lower your education costs.
For example, you can join an apprenticeship program. That will help you learn on the job, earn money as you go, and give you a formal education framework.
The advantage of an apprenticeship is that you also discover if the career is the right choice for you. It will lower the risk of spending money on an educational decision you later decide you don’t want to pursue that career.
5. Buy Used Books, Tools, and Tech
A barbering course often means investing in tools, books, and technology. That often means an upfront investment. Yet there are many quality second-hand goods to buy.
These could be in excellent condition but at a fraction of the price of buying new.
Consider using this to cut your costs when starting a barbering course. Plus, sell used books and tools when you no longer need them to help recoup your costs.
Cost of Barber School: Making Smart Savings
There are many intelligent ways to save on the cost of barber school. Use these tips to help you find financial support and savings to make your career choice more affordable.
The Invictus Career College also has more information on financial support and grants which you can check out by heading to this page.