Frequently Asked Questions

Deciding to attend Cosmetology school (sometimes called Beauty school or Hairdressing school) is a big commitment. The International Institute of Cosmetology (IIC) hopes to answer some of the many questions that you may have:

General Questions

Why choose the International Institute of Cosmetology (IIC)?

Your training is not about one product line or personality; it is about elevating your skills to the highest level of artistic creativity. IIC’s devotion to beauty education, acquisition of knowledge and personal success of each one of our students is what makes this school stand out among the rest.

What programs are available at the International Institute of Cosmetology?

The International Institute of Cosmetology offers a 1500 Hour Cosmetology/Hairdressing program, 100 Hour Nail Technician program, 50 Hour Eyelash Technician program, 45 Hour Makeup Artistry course as well as additional short workshops. Coming Soon IIC will also offer a 1000 hour Barbering program. learn more at https://www.studyhair.com.

Is the school accredited?

Yes, IIC-Wethersfield (main campus) and IIC-Plainville (additional location) are accredited with NACCAS, National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts & Sciences, Inc. NACCAS is recognized by the United States Department of Education as a national accrediting agency for Cosmetology and related studies.

How old do I have to be to start?

For Cosmetology, Barber, Esthetics, Nail Technician and Eyelash Technician programs students must be 17 years of age and older.

How does IIC help me give back to my community?

The cosmetology industry believes in community involvement. At IIC, our students and staff participate in a number of community events. See some of the organizations that share similar values as IIC that we support, https://www.studyhair.com/about/our-values/

What should I expect after the completion of my IIC program?

The Cosmetology, Barber, Nail Technician and Eyelash Technician programs all directly lead to licensure in the State of CT. Successful completion of the required hours and academic units will allow you to apply for licensure with the State of CT Department of Public Health.

Does IIC provide career assistance?

Yes – IIC staff works with any interested student in resume preparation, as well as provides workshops as part of the program in topics including financial literacy, building a clientele, and social media. We also host a free online job board on our website and have additional resources on our career services page.

How do I get started?

Call/Text the Admissions Department at (860) 571-0330 to schedule a tour and begin the enrollment process!


Cosmetology/Hairdressing Questions

What is Cosmetology?

Cosmetology is often referred to as hairdressing. A cosmetologist may treat and style hair but the root of the word is Greek and means beautifying. A cosmetologist can perform a variety of beauty treatments that include cutting, color, or hair extensions. Some also specialize in skin care and may do pedicures, manicures, facials, or apply make-up to a client.

What skills do I learn in the Cosmetology program?

The purpose of the Cosmetology program is to prepare the student for an entry level position in the beauty industry. Some topics that students are exposed to are: Haircutting, Hair coloring, Balayage, Textured Services, Manicure/Pedicuring, Makeup, Hair Extensions, Hair Styling, etc.

Is Cosmetology school right for me?

If you are a creative person who sees inspiration and beauty in the everyday world, and desires to help others feel self-confident and empowered, then the answer is YES!!

How much does Cosmetology school cost?

We know that paying for school is a top concern for students. That’s why we have a financial aid team who will meet with you, walk you through your options and answer your questions. IIC does offer Financial Aid for select programs to those who qualify. IIC is approved to offer Federal Pell grants, Subsidized Loans, Unsubsidized Loans, and Parent Plus Loans. Find out more at: https://www.studyhair.com/financial-aid/.

How long is the Cosmetology program?

The Cosmetology program is 1500 hours long. With perfect attendance, IIC students can complete the program in about one year. Find out more about cosmetology/ hairdressing and our schedules at: https://www.studyhair.com/programs/cosmetology/

Does IIC offer part-time and/or evening Cosmetology classes?

At this time, we will not be offering the Cosmetology program either part-time or during the evening hours. Our shorter duration programs such as Eyelash, Nail, and Makeup might be more the fit for you as they are often instructed in the evening and with fewer hours per week.

What can I do with a Cosmetology license?

There are many career opportunities for graduates with a Cosmetology license. These include (but are not limited to): Hair Designer, Competitions, Color Specialist, Celebrity Designer, Salon Manager, Salon Trainer, Salon Owner, Platform Artist, Manufacturer’s Representative, TV/Motion Picture Designer, Cruise Ship Hair Designer, or Educator. *Some of these may require additional certification or licensure.


Eyelash Technician Questions

How long is the Eyelash Technician progam?

50 hours – Our classes typically meet for 5-hours in a day, and we offer both 5-week programs, as well as more accelerated 2 ½ week programs at various times in the year. Always check back at https://www.studyhair.com/programs/eyelash/ for available schedules.

Is there financial aid available for the Eyelash Technician program?

No – Financial aid is not available for the Eyelash Technician program. In fact, unless a program is a minimum of 600-hours, financial aid will not be an option. Another option could be applying for a personal education loan through Sallie Mae.

Will I be able to apply for my Eyelash Technician license in the State of CT?

Yes – After completing all requirements of the 50-hour program at IIC, you will be able to apply for your Eyelash Technician license with the Department of Health.


Nail Technician Questions

How long is the Nail Technician program?

100 hours – Our classes typically meet 4x/week for about 17 hours each week. With perfect attendance, you will be able to complete your hours in a little more than 6 weeks.

Is financial aid available for the Nail Technician program?

No – Financial aid is not available for the Nail Technician program. In fact, unless a program is a minimum of 600-hours, financial aid will not be an option. Another option could be applying for a personal education loan through Sallie Mae.

Are there any payment plans available for the Nail Technician program?

Yes – The full cost of the program may be split into three payments.

Will I be able to apply for my Nail Technician license in the State of CT?

Yes – After completing all requirements of the 100-hour program you will be able to apply for your Nail Technician license with the Department of Health.


Makeup Artistry Questions

How long is the Makeup Artistry program?

45 hours – Our classes typically meet for 3 ½ hours a day, twice a week. Please visit https://www.studyhair.com/programs/makeup/ for current schedules and offerings.

Is there financial aid available for Makeup Artistry?

No – Financial aid is not available for the Makeup Artistry course. In fact, unless a program is a minimum of 600-hours, financial aid will not be an option. Another option could be applying for a personal education loan through Sallie Mae.

Will I be able to apply for a Makeup Artist license in the State of CT?

No – The State of CT does not currently have a Makeup Professional License (sometimes referred to as MUA). The Makeup Artistry program is for personal/professional enrichment.


Barbering Questions

How long is the Barbering program?

1000 hours – Please visit https://www.studyhair.com/programs/barbering/ for current schedules and offerings.

Is there financial aid available for Barbering?

Yes – Financial aid is available to those who qualify. For more info please visit: https://www.studyhair.com/financial-aid/

When will Barbering be offered again?

Barber program is not currently being offered at the school. For up to date information please visit: https://www.studyhair.com/programs/barbering/


Esthetics Questions

How long is the Esthetics program?

600 hours – Please visit https://www.studyhair.com/programs/esthetics for current schedules and offerings.

Is there financial aid available for Esthetics?

Yes – Financial aid is available to those who qualify. For more info please visit: https://www.studyhair.com/financial-aid/

When will Esthetics be offered again?

Esthetics Program is not currently being offered at the school. For up to date information please visit: https://www.studyhair.com/programs/esthetics/