How Long is Barber School?

How long a barber school takes varies greatly on the state and the program in which you intend to or may have already enrolled for. In most states, barber school takes around nine months to 1 year to complete.

However, some programs can take up to 2 years to complete. Hence, the need to conduct in-depth research on the state requirements and specific programs before enrolling in a barber school.

You will be able to learn theory and practical from qualified teachers throughout this time and acquire the necessary barbing skills.

How many hours per day do I have to assist in a barber school?

Depending on the school’s needs and your schedule, the number of hours you must assist at a barber school may change.

Before graduating and receiving a license to practice barbing, most barber schools demand that students complete a pre-determined number of hours of practical experience in a salon or barber shop.

While some schools may force you to work, others will give you free hands to choose your timetable. However, it is important to check with your school to learn about their unique needs and talk about your worries if you have any.

What are the Skills I need to possess to become a Barber?

You will pick up a plethora of skills while attending barber school. The most crucial skills you need to possess and will gain include the following.

Communication

To be effective, barbers must have strong communication skills. This is simply because you will interact with many customers, co-workers, etc. It is expedient to convey your message concisely to avoid any misunderstandings.

Also, it is important to use non-verbal cues when conversing with others. In communication, avoiding eye contact and crossing your arms can pass off as being defensive and uninterested.

And, because the secret to becoming a successful barber is good communication, you will learn this in a barber school.

Customer Support and Sales

Being a good customer service provider is a requirement for being a barber. There is no gainsaying that recurring customers are because of good customer service. It is less expensive to maintain a loyal customer than continually paying to bring new ones.

Additionally, it is how you treated these loyal customers of yours that will determine how far they can go in purchasing more hair products from you and even relay your great barbing skills to their folks.

To give everyone who enters the barber shop a nice treat, portray your business positively.

Attention to Detail

You will develop your attention to detail by attending a barber school. Pay attention when giving a client a haircut because it is straightforward to tell when a haircut error has been made.

I’m sure you want to make sure your practical sessions are good.

Problem-Solving

Problems will inevitably arise in a barber shop. Maybe a particular hair product just finished or a client is waiting longer than expected. It is important always to proffer solutions when these problems arise.

Stamina

Using your hands to cut hair is a necessary skill that is required of you. Along with other hair tools, you will use sheers, clippers, and combs,, which takes great dexterity in your fingers and hands.

You will also be on your feet for longer times. So, working on actual clients in a barber school would help enhance your endurance level.

What are the requirements for attending a barber school?

The requirements for attending barber school vary depending on the state and the specific program. Generally, most barber schools require applicants to have a high school diploma or equivalent. Some schools may require applicants to pass a background check or have a certain GPA.

How to Become a Barber

To become a licensed barber, you must complete these steps:

Complete a barbing training course

Your first step should be to list all accredited barber schools within your locality. Pay attention to courses provided by knowledgeable professors who stay up-to-date on barbing and cosmetology trends.

With this, you will learn physiology, cleanliness, state regulation, how to run a barber shop, trim, style, color, and shave facial hair.

Apply for a Barber License

You must complete and submit a Barber Application for examination along with a $125 license fee and additional processing costs after graduating from a barber school that is approved by the Board of Barbing in the state where you live.

After reviewing your application, the Board will inform you if you can take the written and practical exams. You must, however, pass these exams to become a licensed barber.

Pass the License Exams

Practice

Renew your Barber License

After passing the exam, you must renew your barber license after the first year. You must submit a renewal application and the $50 renewal cost every two years and would pay more if you renew after the deadline.

How much does a Barber School Cost?

The cost of barber school ranges from $5,000 to $20,000. Financial aid, grants, and scholarships may be available to help offset the cost of tuition.

How much does a Barber Earn?

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the average yearly wage for a barber is $33,220. Barbers who work in personal care services will earn an average of $33,080.

Moreso, how much you’ll earn will differ by the state you live in as the BLS top-paying states incle Massachusetts, Alabama, Illinois, and Maryland.

What are the Highest-paying Cities for Barbers?

According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the following cities are among the highest-paying for barbers

San Francisco, CA
Vallejo
Santa Rosa
Anchorage, AK
San Jose
Portland
Oakland
Napa
Seattle
Minneapolis

It is important to remember that wages might also change depending on expertise, barber shop, and the clientele.

Job Outlook for Barbers

In Cosmetology and Barbing, the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts an increase of 119,000 jobs between 2020 and 2030. With an increase of 8%, there will be more jobs created. In 2019, there were about 66,500 jobs for barbers. While 30% worked in personal care services, 70% were self-employed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I attend a barber school part-time?

Yes, some barber schools offer part-time programs that allow students to attend classes part-time. However, part-time programs typically take longer to complete than full-time programs.

What career opportunities are available for barbers?

Barbers can work in various settings, including barbershops, salons, spas, and hotels. Some barbers may choose to open their businesses and become entrepreneurs. The demand for barbers is expected to grow in the coming years, meaning there will be plenty of career opportunities for licensed barbers.

Do I need a license to become a barber?

Yes, you must be licensed to work as a barber in the United States. To become licensed, you must complete a barber school program and pass a state licensing exam. Licensing requirements vary by state, so it is important to research the requirements in your state before enrolling in a barber school.

Conclusion

As a barber, you can help people look and feel their best. If you’re deterred by how long a barber school is, it is less time than you think. Conclusively, enrolling in a barber school is all the boost you need to give your career a new rising, and in less than one year, you can be working in a career that helps others and is fulfilling for you.