A Quick Guide to Financial Aid

Updated September 24, 2026 · 4-minute read

Financial aid at Hays Academy of Hair Design is federal student aid for the cosmetology program, applied for through the FAFSA: Pell Grants and Stafford loans. Federal aid is available to those who qualify. The cosmetology program costs $18,900 in total at both campuses, Hays and Salina. The Nail Technology program does not qualify for financial aid.

How Do I Apply for Financial Aid?

Submit the FAFSA at studentaid.gov and list the Federal School Code for your campus:

Hays campus: 015944
Salina campus: E02178

FAFSA processing takes about 2–3 weeks to reach the school; the school then contacts you about eligibility. If you take a federal loan, you also complete a Master Promissory Note, the electronic loan agreement, and Entrance Counseling, a required online session. Both are done at studentaid.gov.

Do I Qualify for Financial Aid?

The FAFSA decides eligibility, not the school. Filling out the FAFSA can help determine eligibility for Pell Grants and other types of federal loans. Hays Academy is accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences (NACCAS), and accreditation is what enables a school to take part in federal financial aid.

Financial Aid

Pell Grant: need-based, and it requires no repayment.
Subsidized Stafford Loan: need-based, with no interest while you are in school.
Unsubsidized Stafford Loan: available to all eligible students. Interest accrues immediately, and payments begin about six months after you leave school.

Nail Tech Program

The Nail Technology program does not qualify for financial aid. The whole program is $4,595, itemized on Tuition & Scholarships. Call your campus to talk through how to pay for it.

Scholarship Opportunities

Hays Academy offers a $500 scholarship for seniors graduating from any Kansas high school. The application, a short essay and your transcript are submitted online. All criteria must be received by May 1st. Recipients selected and notified by May 15th. Outside beauty-school scholarships stack with it, and the scholarships page lists them.

Military Spouses and Veterans Benefits

If you are a veteran, a military spouse or unemployed, ask about additional benefits. Federal aid is available to those who qualify. Call the Hays campus at (785) 628-6624 or the Salina campus at (785) 833-2280, and an admissions director will walk you through the process.

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Hays Campus: (785) 628-6624 · text us
Salina Campus: (785) 833-2280 · text us

“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

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