Guides

Choosing the Right Cosmetology School

Updated September 24, 2026 · 5-minute read

The right cosmetology school in Kansas is licensed by the Kansas Board of Cosmetology, accredited, clear about its total price, and ready to show you its graduation, job placement and licensure rates. Ask every school the same questions on your tour, write the answers down, and compare them side by side. Here are the questions, with Hays Academy of Hair Design’s own answers.

Getting a License in Kansas

Is the school licensed by the Kansas Board of Cosmetology? Only hours at a school the Kansas Board of Cosmetology licenses count toward a Kansas license. At Hays Academy the cosmetology program is 1,500 hours and the nail technology program is 350 hours. You graduate, then sit for your Kansas state board exams. Hays Academy is licensed by the Kansas Board of Cosmetology at both campuses.

Accreditation

Is the school accredited, and by whom? Accreditation enables federal financial aid participation and means the school meets national education standards. Hays Academy is accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences (NACCAS).

Considering the Total Cost

What is the all-in price, and which programs qualify for aid? At Hays Academy, cosmetology is $18,900 and nail technology is $4,595, each including registration, books, kit and equipment. Federal aid is available to those who qualify. The Nail Technology program does not qualify for financial aid. The cost guide itemizes both.

Compare Us to the Competition

What are the school’s graduation, job placement and licensure rates? Ask each school for the rates in its most recent NACCAS annual report and compare like with like. In the 2024 NACCAS Annual Report, Hays Academy reported a 88.89% graduation rate, a 83.91% job placement rate and a 100% licensure pass rate. The outcomes page breaks them down by campus and program.

Choosing the Size of Your Classes

How big are the classes? At Hays Academy, never more than 25 students in a class.

Transfer Policy

If you have trained before, how many hours transfer? Up to 1,000 hours can transfer in at Hays Academy, after a skills and knowledge evaluation.

Learn How to Enroll

When are the start dates, and what do you need to enroll? Hays Academy starts classes four times a year, in February, May, August and November, at both campuses. You need to be at least 16 years old with a high school diploma or equivalent, and a $100 registration payment holds your seat.

Schedule a Tour

Call the Hays campus at (785) 628-6624 or the Salina campus at (785) 833-2280, or contact us. On a tour you walk through the facilities, meet staff, and go over admission requirements together.

Reading done. Questions left?

Text with a real person about cost, start dates, and whether this path fits, no pressure, no spam.

What are you into?
Which campus is closer?
Where should we text you?

“The owners and instructors truly seem to care about our success in school and afterwards. They help you build habits and character that will last a lifetime.”

Bailey J.

“They made me feel like one of their own. I can definitely see why they say “Welcome to the family”.”

Lexie R.

“I have made so many accomplishments in my short time here, and made some lifelong friends along the way.”

Kylie M. · Salina campus

“I toured at Hays Academy and it was the perfect fit for me. After starting they soon became family.”

Tori D. · Hays campus

“I was nervous. But I quickly felt like part of the family, it was like my second home.”

Kari N. · Hays campus

“The teachers were great and always there when I needed something.”

Paige P. · Salina campus

“Hays Academy is a well-rounded and friendly community… it changed my life for the better.”

Erica Schultz · Hays campus

“Hays Academy of Hair Design is a GREAT place to go to school!”

Sydney Fellhoelter · Hays campus

“As a part of the Hays Academy of Hair Design family I would recommend the school to anyone.”

Evangel Goossen · Salina campus

“The instructors challenged me, supported me, and helped shape me into the stylist I am today. The hands-on training and real client experience truly prepared me for the salon environment.”

Kayla C. · Hays campus

“I’ve learned that it’s never too late to invest in yourself, chase a passion, and start something new.”

Brenda M. · Hays campus

“One of the best schools to prepare you for the salon. Both in technical skill and personal mindset. Such a loving and welcoming staff that really make it exciting to go to school everyday!”

Cali R. · Hays campus

“I came in to school ready to kick butt. When my health hit I felt like giving up. They staff and students gave me the strength and motivation to keep on going and I finished strong with them all by my side!!”

Kenna P. · Hays campus

“Not only are you taught each service procedure in multiple ways but the teachers got your back. They don’t let you fail!”

Crystal D. · Salina campus

“I’ve enjoyed my time here and the staff is super helpful, caring, and loving. They lift you up and guide you in the right direction. Thanks to all of you, I’ve enjoyed my time here and would do it again if I had to.”

Zach D. · Salina campus

“Coming to Hays Academy my eyes were truly opened to what this industry truly is, and the way instructors should be.”

Sabrina O. · Salina campus

“This school has absolutely completely prepared me for my state tests and also prepared me for life as a stylist in a salon.”

Hannah E. · Salina campus

“My time at the school was a rollercoaster. The staff was always understanding. They were there to listen and willing to work with me. I will forever cherish my time at Hays Hair Academy.”

Katie W. · Hays campus

“I appreciate all the hard work the instructors and students put in. I would like to thank the instructors for prepping me for the salon world and the state boards. I would also like to thank them for pushing me and making sure I had everything I needed.”

Carmen C. · Salina campus

Start Your Beauty Journey Here

Are You Ready for Beauty School?

Our goal is to produce the most hire-able, financially responsible graduates in the country! We hope that is your goal too!

Get More Info

Start Your Beauty Journey Here

Sending this asks Hays Academy to contact you, no spam, and we never share your details.