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Starting a career in skincare and wellness is an exciting step, but it is also a practical decision that requires planning. Tuition costs, living expenses, and time commitment all play a role when choosing the right esthetician school. For many students, understanding available financial aid options is just as important as selecting the right esthetics program.
This guide breaks down the beauty school aid options available at Mandalyn Academy and explains how students can find the right solution for their individual situation.
Understanding Financial Aid for Esthetics Education
Financial aid refers to funding that helps students pay for tuition and related educational costs. These funds may come from various sources, such as the following:
- Federal programs
- Private lenders
- State agencies
- The school itself
In the beauty and wellness industry, financial assistance allows students to focus on developing their skills. This is a preferred alternative rather than being overwhelmed by upfront costs.
We recommend that students enrolling in an esthetics program should approach funding decisions with the same care they apply to choosing a school. This means properly understanding loan terms, repayment expectations, and grant eligibility. By doing so, they will not be surprised by the situation they find themselves in after graduation.
At Mandalyn Academy, students receive guidance from knowledgeable staff who clearly and honestly explain each option.
Federal Financial Aid Opportunities at Mandalyn Academy
Mandalyn Academy offers four types of federal aid to our students who qualify.
These programs are designed to support education without requiring private credit approval in several cases.
Students interested in federal assistance should schedule an appointment with the Financial Aid Officer by calling our school or emailing finance@mandalynacademy.com. Applications can also be submitted through www.studentaid.gov using Mandalyn Academy School Code #041619.
Pell Grants
Pell Grants are awarded by the federal government to specific students. These are those who demonstrate financial need according to a set of criteria. Eligible students may receive up to $6,895 per academic year for a 900-hour program.
Pell Grants do not require repayment unless a student decides to withdraw from school before completing the program. This makes them one of the most valuable forms of aid available for beauty schools.
Direct Subsidized Loans
Direct Subsidized Loans are need-based, low-interest loans. This aid is supported by the federal government. For students who qualify, the government pays the interest while the student is enrolled in school.
The current interest rate for these loans is 4.99 percent until July 2023. Credit checks are not required for these loans. Thus, they become accessible to many students pursuing esthetician training.
If a student does not qualify for subsidized funding, additional unsubsidized loan options may be offered.
Direct Unsubsidized Loans
Direct Unsubsidized Loans are also provided by the federal government. However, interest begins accruing once the loan funds are disbursed toward tuition. The interest rate is currently 4.99 percent.
Students may choose to capitalize interest until graduation. This means interest is added to the loan balance rather than paid monthly. While capitalization is allowed, it is generally not recommended due to the long-term cost increase.
Parent PLUS Loans
Parent PLUS Loans are available for dependent students. These are unmarried people under 24 with no dependents. These loans help parents cover educational expenses.
Interest accrues immediately, payments begin right away, and the current interest rate is 7.54 percent. Credit checks are required for Parent PLUS Loans. Plus, the loan responsibility remains with the parent borrower.
Professional Judgment for Unique Financial Situations
The Department of Education recognizes that standard financial formulas do not always reflect a student’s real circumstances. Financial Aid Administrators have the authority to exercise Professional Judgment when determining Expected Family Contribution, Cost of Attendance, or dependency status.
Students experiencing unique financial situations may submit a request in person or by email to the Financial Aid Office at finance@mandalynacademy.com. Each request will be reviewed individually to ensure fair consideration.
Additional Tuition Options for Students Without Federal Aid
Not every student qualifies for federal funding. Mandalyn Academy offers alternative tuition solutions to support students who need other options.
Private Institutional Loans
Some banks, credit unions, and financial institutions offer educational loans for career training. These beauty school loans may be used to finance tuition or continuing education courses.
Students may qualify for Title IV or HEA loans before considering private loans. This is because federal options often offer more favorable terms. The admissions office and financial aid director are available to help students compare options and understand loan conditions.
Additional details are available in the Student Consumer Information Guide.
Cash Pay Tuition
Students may choose to pay the full tuition amount at enrollment through the following:
- Personal check
- Cashier’s check
- Money order
- Credit card
- Cash
This option eliminates interest and long-term repayment obligations. Cash payment is ideal for students who prefer to complete their education without relying on external financing.
In-House Financing Plans
Students who do not qualify for private institutional loans may be eligible for in-house financing. These plans typically require a down payment, monthly payments, and a final balloon payment approximately three-quarters of the way through the program.
In-house financing allows students to spread tuition costs over time while remaining enrolled and progressing through the program.
Specialized Education Benefits and Scholarship Programs
Department of Veterans Affairs Education Benefits
The Department of Veterans Affairs offers multiple education benefit programs for eligible veterans and their dependents. Each program has specific eligibility requirements.
Mandalyn Academy has trained School Certifying Officials who assist veterans throughout the application and enrollment process. Veterans interested in enrolling are welcomed and supported at every step.
More information is available at https://www.va.gov/education/how-to-apply/.
Tuition Policies and Licensing Requirements
Tuition is due at the time of enrollment unless otherwise contracted through financing agreements. Paperwork required for state licensing is released once tuition is paid in full.
Understanding these requirements helps students plan responsibly and avoid delays in licensure after program completion.
Choosing the Right Financial Path for Your Education
Investing in esthetics education is a personal decision that should align with both career goals and financial reality. Mandalyn Academy offers transparent guidance and flexible financial aid in American Fork, UT, to help students move forward with confidence.
By exploring grants, loans, payment plans, and alternative resources, students can create a financial strategy that supports long-term success without unnecessary stress.
For those ready to begin their journey, Mandalyn Academy’s admissions and financial aid teams are available to help answer questions and guide each step of the process.
About Mandalyn Academy
Mandalyn Academy was launched in 2001 when Mandalyn Freeland recognized the need for an advanced master esthetics education. The latter can truly prepare students for successful careers. In 2006, Diane Bitaraf joined Mandalyn to strengthen the school’s foundation and expand its vision.
Together, they focused on building a program rooted in quality education, strong customer service, and real industry expertise. They evaluated their own beauty school experiences, studied programs across the country, and identified gaps in traditional training models.
Unlock Funding Opportunities at Mandalyn Academy!
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of financial aid are available at Mandalyn Academy?
Mandalyn Academy offers federal grants, federal student loans, private lending options, in-house financing plans, and specialized assistance such as veterans’ education benefits.
Do Pell Grants have to be repaid?
Pell Grants do not need to be repaid unless a student withdraws from the esthetics program before completion.
Can I attend Mandalyn Academy if I do not qualify for federal financial aid?
Students who do not qualify for federal aid may still enroll by using private education loans, cash payment, or approved in-house financing options.
Are veterans eligible for financial assistance at Mandalyn Academy?
Veterans and eligible dependents may use Department of Veterans Affairs education benefits with guidance from Mandalyn Academy’s trained school certifying officials.
When is tuition due, and how does it affect state licensing paperwork?
Tuition is due at enrollment unless otherwise contracted, and state licensing paperwork is released only after tuition has been paid in full.
