Frequently Asked Questions

Student posing in an esthetician classroom environment.  

Cosmetology and Esthetician Program: Application FAQ

Answers to the questions we hear most often from prospective students.

Applying and Deadlines

Will you still accept my application if it's just past the deadline? No. We cannot accept applications after the deadline for any reason.

My application is missing an attachment. Can I send it separately? No. Your application must be complete at the time you submit it. Review the application process on the Cosmetology Department website before you turn anything in.

Can someone else drop off my application for me? Yes. We ask everyone dropping off an application to take a photo of the intake envelope as their receipt. Have them forward that photo to you for your records.

Transcripts

Can I have my official transcripts sent later or mailed directly to the department? No. Your transcripts must be included with your application at the time of submission.

I'm a current or former Cerritos College student. Do my transcripts need to be official?

  • Cerritos College transcripts: unofficial is fine.
  • Any other college or university: must be sealed, official transcripts. 

English Course Requirement

Do I need to finish the English course before I apply? Not necessarily. You need to submit one of the following:

  1. Transcripts showing you completed the English course with a grade of "C" or higher, or
  2. Proof of current enrollment in the English course at Cerritos College, showing it will be complete before the program begins.

If you apply under option 2 and are admitted, you must later provide transcripts showing you finished the course with a "C" or higher in order to continue in the program.

Printing

Can the Cosmetology Department print or copy a document for me? No, we are not able to print documents. It's your responsibility to have everything ready when you submit. Printing options include:

  • The Cerritos College campus library (if you're a student)
  • Public libraries
  • Office supply stores and some chain pharmacies 

Selection and Notification

When will I find out if I was selected? Check the Cosmetology website for the notification timeframe, since deadlines change each semester.

Important: Selected applicants have only 24–48 hours to respond, so watch for our message closely.

Will I be contacted if I'm not selected? No. Applicants who are not selected are not notified.

If I'm not selected, do I need to re-apply next semester? Yes. You must submit a new application each time.

State Board Exam Eligibility

I have a previous conviction. Can I still take the state board exam? Eligibility is determined by the Board of Barbering and Cosmetology (BBC), not by Cerritos College. You may be able to confirm your eligibility with the BBC ahead of time. Contact them directly:

  • By mail: Board of Barbering and Cosmetology, PO Box 944226, Sacramento, CA 94244-2260
  • Phone: (916) 575-7100
  • Email: barbercosmo@dca.ca.gov
  • Website: www.barbercosmo.ca.gov