Organize your transcripts. While most makeup schools will not ask to see your grades, they will want to know your education history. Get your high school and college diplomas ready ahead of time. Be sure to include any special awards or scholarships you received on your resume or application. If you excelled in a creative subject, be sure to stress that on your resume. Relevant activities, such as art show participation, should be included on your resume or application.
Gather at least three references. Speak with your former teachers, friends and parents to see if there is anyone working in a creative industry to vouch for your talent and vision.
Assemble a creative portfolio. Showcase any media you excel at. If you draw well, put together 15 to 20 drawings of different types of fantasy stage makeup. Or do different makeup styles on a friend and take photographs. It does not matter if it is award-wining material. The point is to show you have a creative side and a passion for stage makeup.
Learn how to do your own makeup before the interview. Even though everyday makeup and stage makeup are extremely different, the reality for aspiring female makeup artists is that they will be judged on their own personal makeup. For women interested in going to stage makeup school, practice on your own makeup beforehand to make sure your technique on yourself is flawless before interviewing with a makeup school. The admissions officer will be judging your potential as a makeup artist and your face should reflect your skill, even with natural makeup.
Practice possible interview questions beforehand. To avoid being nervous and to present yourself in the best light, think of some possible interview questions beforehand and write down or rehearse how you would answer them. Consider answering questions like: why you want to pursue a career in stage makeup; which makeup artists you admire; or what your favorite plays are.