The first step to your exciting career in the beauty industry:

College of San Mateo Admissions

Admission/Tuition/Fees --

The Intensive Cosmetology Program is designed for creative career oriented students who have the ability and motivation to work independently under supervising instructors, and to be able to participate in a collaborative learning environment, thus benefiting from the program. The Cosmetology Department has facilities for approximately 40 new students each semester.

Requirements for Admission --

Completion of tenth grade or equivalent as required by the California State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology.
(Completion of twelfth grade is recommended.)

Priorities for Admission --

• Applications will be reviewed according to date and time received in the Cosmetology Department (Building 21)
• High School graduate or equivalent
• San Mateo County Residence

How to Apply --

Submit the Cosmetology Application Form to the Cosmetology Department. Cosmetology Application Form (PDF)

Financial Aid --

Apply for Financial Aid and get help with paying for college.
CSM Financial Aid web site

When to Apply --

Applications are to be turned in two weeks after the start of the fall
or spring semester for the following session. Due to the high volume
of applications we have been receiving, turning in your application ASAP will allow you to have better chances of acceptance.

Once we receive the number of applications we need to fill our classes, we may either put you on a waiting list or request you to reapply for the next upcoming session.

Program Start Dates --

The College of San Mateo accepts beginning students twice each year:

• Fall Semester – August & October (class availability depends upon enrollment in the August class)
• Spring Semester – January & March (class availability depends upon enrollment in the January class)

Program Completion Dates --

Students who are enrolled full-time, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and have good attendance are able to complete the Cosmetology Program in 12 -1/2 to 13 months. Currently we do not offer part-time classes.