The first step to becoming a cosmetologist is to earn a diploma from an beauty school in Iowa that meets the state board requirements. Iowa requires students to take a 2,100-hours cosmetology program before they are eligible to sit for the board exam. Beauty schools approved by the board have a curriculum that includes courses in sanitation, bacteriology, hair techniques, nail care and more. The programs also require a component that gives students hands-on client experience. Students can also pursue cosmetology degrees in nail technology, which consists of a 325-hour program, and a 600-hour aesthetician program for those who want to specialize in facials and skin care. A student must provide proof of graduation from a cosmetology school in Iowa before he is allowed a state board exam.
Iowa law stipulates that a high school diploma or general equivalency diploma (GED) is required for all candidates seeking a professional license to practice within their field. Students pursuing careers in cosmetology--including hair stylists, manicurists, facialists and aestheticians--must include proof of high school graduation when they apply for a cosmetology license. Students must provide transcripts or other forms to prove they've graduated from high school. Check with the board about the required paperwork.
The Iowa Board of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences belongs to the National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology, and uses a standardized cosmetology examination. The computer-administered test is managed by LaserGrade and can be taken at locations throughout the state. The exam lasts for 90-minutes and consists exclusively of theory questions in a multiple-choice format. All material covered on the exam is drawn from information and courses learned in an certified cosmetology program. Iowa's cosmetology board has set the minimum passing score at 75. Students who don't pass will have an opportunity to repeat the exam. LaserGrade administers three types of board exams--the general comprehensive cosmetology exam, the nail technologist exam and the aesthetician exam.