Ohio State School of Cosmetology Review: Programs, Cost & Ohio Beauty School Options (2026)
GradeToGrad Editorial Team
April 11, 2026
Ohio State School of Cosmetology is one of the most-searched beauty schools in Ohio. We review programs, tuition, and compare it to Raphael's, Aveda, and community college alternatives.
Ohio State School of Cosmetology is a private cosmetology school in central Ohio — and despite the name, it has no affiliation with The Ohio State University. It is one of the most-searched beauty schools in the state, which says something about the demand for cosmetology education in Ohio.
Ohio State School of Cosmetology is a private cosmetology school in central Ohio — and despite the name, it has no affiliation with The Ohio State University. It is one of the most-searched beauty schools in the state, which says something about the demand for cosmetology education in Ohio.
What Ohio State School of Cosmetology Offers
Programs typically include:
- Cosmetology: Ohio requires 1,500 clock hours (approximately 12–14 months full-time)
- Esthetics: 600 hours
- Manicuring: 200 hours
- Instructor training: For licensed cosmetologists who want to teach
Tuition and Cost
Tuition for the cosmetology program is approximately $15,000–$20,000. Add $1,000–$2,000 for kits, supplies, and state board exam fees.
The school is accredited and eligible for federal financial aid, including Pell Grants (up to $7,395/year) and the Ohio College Opportunity Grant (up to $3,750 for need-based students).
Ohio Licensing Requirements
To become a licensed cosmetologist in Ohio, you must:
- Complete 1,500 clock hours at a licensed school
- Pass the Ohio State Board of Cosmetology practical exam
- Pass the written theory exam
- Be at least 16 years old with a high school diploma or GED
Ohio's requirements are on the higher end nationally — some states require as few as 1,000 hours.
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Try the Calculator →How It Compares to Other Ohio Beauty Schools
| School | Tuition | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Ohio State School of Cosmetology | $15,000–$20,000 | Central Ohio |
| Raphael's School of Beauty — Brunswick | $13,617 | Brunswick, OH |
| Raphael's School of Beauty — Alliance/Boardman | $23,200 | NE Ohio |
| Aveda Fredric's Institute | $21,575 | West Chester (Cincinnati area) |
| Community college programs | $4,000–$7,000 | Various |
Raphael's Brunswick campus is the cheapest private option at $13,617. Community colleges are the best value if you are purely cost-conscious.
Student Outcomes
Cosmetologist median salary in Ohio is approximately $35,000–$38,000 — below the national median of $43,460. However, top earners in Columbus and Cleveland markets can earn $50,000+ with experience and a loyal client base.
Graduation rates at private cosmetology schools in Ohio vary widely — some run as high as 70%, others below 50%. Ask for the school's completion rate before enrolling.
Is Ohio State School of Cosmetology Right for You?
It is a solid option if you are in central Ohio and want a dedicated beauty school experience rather than a community college setting. But compare costs carefully — community college programs offer the same license for a fraction of the price, and Raphael's Brunswick campus undercuts most private schools in the state.
Use GradeToGrad's search to compare all Ohio beauty schools by tuition, location, and outcomes.