If you’re considering a career in cosmetology, one of the first questions you may have is: how long is cosmetology school in Idaho?
In Idaho, becoming a licensed cosmetologist requires completing the required cosmetology education and training hours before you can move on to the licensing process. For many students, this means completing a 1,600-hour cosmetology program.
How quickly you complete those hours depends on your school schedule, attendance and how many hours you are able to complete each week. For aspiring cosmetologists, understanding the required training hours can help you plan when to start cosmetology school and how to fit cosmetology training into your schedule.
How Many Hours Is Cosmetology School in Idaho?
Idaho cosmetology students generally need to complete 1,600 hours of approved education and practical training to qualify for cosmetology licensure.
These hours provide students with both classroom instruction and hands-on experience. Training covers areas such as:
- Hair cutting and styling
- Hair coloring
- Chemical services
- Skin care
- Nail care
- Sanitation and safety
- Client services
- Professional practices
The goal is to give students the education and practical experience they need to begin working in the beauty industry. When researching cosmetology schools, make sure you choose a licensed school that offers an approved program and provides the cosmetology training required for licensure.
How Long Does 1,600 Hours of Cosmetology School Take?
The actual amount of time it takes to complete a 1,600-hour program depends largely on your schedule. If you’re wondering how many hours you can complete each week, consider both the school’s attendance requirements and the number of days you can commit to training.
A student attending school full-time may be able to complete the program in significantly less time than someone attending part-time. Your attendance also matters. Missing scheduled training hours can extend the amount of time it takes to finish the program.
For example, students who attend consistently and maintain a full-time schedule can work toward completing their required hours on a regular schedule rather than spreading the program out over many years.
Before enrolling, it’s a good idea to ask a cosmetology school about its schedule and how long students typically take to complete the program. Ask whether the school offers day and evening schedules, what attendance options are available and whether eligible students can transfer hours from previous cosmetology education.
What Do You Learn in Cosmetology School?
Cosmetology school involves more than simply learning how to cut and style hair. Students receive training in a variety of beauty services and professional practices.
Depending on the program, students may learn:
- Hair services: Hair cutting, styling, coloring and chemical treatments.
- Skin care: Basic skin care services and techniques.
- Nail services: Manicures, pedicures and other basic nail services.
- Sanitation: Proper sanitation, safety and infection-control practices.
- Client services: Communication, consultation and working with clients in a professional setting.
Students also get opportunities to develop their skills through hands-on practice. A well-rounded cosmetology education combines classroom instruction with practical experience so students can build the knowledge and technical skills needed to work with clients.
Can You Complete Cosmetology School in Idaho While Working?
Some students need to balance school with work or other responsibilities. Whether that is possible depends on the school’s schedule and the number of hours you need to complete.
A part-time schedule can provide more flexibility, but it will generally take longer to reach the required number of training hours.
If finishing school as quickly as possible is important to you, ask potential schools about their full-time schedule, attendance requirements and expected completion time before enrolling. Finding a schedule that works with your responsibilities can make it easier to attend cosmetology school consistently and complete your required hours.
What Are the Requirements to Enroll in Cosmetology School?
Enrollment requirements can vary by school, so aspiring cosmetologists should confirm the admission criteria before applying. Some schools may require a high school diploma or an equivalent credential. You can also ask about application procedures, available schedules and any steps required to become an eligible student.
Choosing an approved program is important because your cosmetology education needs to meet Idaho’s requirements before you can pursue licensure.
For more information, check out our admissions and enrollment page.
What Happens After Cosmetology School?
Completing your required cosmetology school hours is an important step, but it is not the end of the licensing process.
After completing the required education and training, students must meet Idaho’s licensing requirements before they can legally work as licensed cosmetologists.
The licensing process includes examinations, which may involve a written exam and a practical exam. Check the current state requirements to understand which exams apply, how to register and what you need to do before receiving your license.
This is why it’s important to choose a school that provides the training required for the Idaho licensing process and prepares students for the next step in their careers.
Start Your Cosmetology Career in Idaho
If you’re looking for a cosmetology school in Idaho, Austin Kade Academy offers a 1,600-hour cosmetology program designed to provide students with classroom education and hands-on experience.
Students have the opportunity to develop their skills in a professional learning environment while preparing for a career in the beauty industry.
If you’re considering cosmetology as a career, learning how long school takes is just the beginning. You can also explore the requirements for becoming a cosmetologist in Idaho, the different career opportunities available with a cosmetology license and what you can expect from cosmetology school. Whether you’re just beginning to explore the beauty industry or are ready to enroll, understanding the education, training and licensing process can help you take the next step toward becoming a licensed cosmetologist.
Ready to start your cosmetology education? Contact Austin Kade Academy to learn more about the cosmetology program.





