A Helpful Guide on to How to Become a Hairstylist in Ontario [2023]

Are you a high school student with a passion for hair, fashion, and creativity? Ever dreamed what it would be like to become a hairstylist in Ontario? This guide will provide you with valuable insights and information on how to pursue your dream of becoming a hairstylist in Ontario. We will explore the exciting world of hairstyling, discuss hairstylist certification, Ontario beauty schools, and the hairstylist licensing requirements. Let’s get started!

What to Expect from a Career as a Hairstylist:

Choosing a career as a hairstylist can lead to a fulfilling and dynamic profession. As a hairstylist, you will have the opportunity to unleash your creativity, work with clients to enhance their appearance, and stay at the forefront of fashion trends. Hairstylists often develop strong relationships with their clients, becoming trusted advisors and sources of inspiration. Additionally, the hairstyling industry offers a range of employment opportunities, including working in salons, spas, fashion shows, photo shoots, or even starting your own business.

Do You Need a License to Cut Hair in Ontario?

Whether you want to be a hairstylists or a barber in Ontario, you will need to work towards getting your Ontario hair license classified as NOA-332 under Canada’s National Occupational Analysis. In Ontario, hairstyling is considered a compulsory trade. 

What Does a Compulsory Trade Mean?

A compulsory trade in Canada is a skilled trade that needs government certification of persons who work in the profession. In general, formal education, qualification, and licensure are necessary.

To gain the necessary skills, you will need to enroll in vocational school also known as trade schools. Private Career Colleges in Ontario such as Eikonic Academy is considered a registered trade school that will prepare you for a successful career as a hairstylist or barber in Ontario. 

Choosing The Best Hairstyling School For Your Learning Experience

• To embark on your hairstyling journey, it’s essential to choose the right beauty school. While there are many hair schools and hair colleges that teach hairstyling with varying teaching methods and curriculum, there are a number of key program details to give you an idea of what to expect.
  
  
• Eikonic Academy’s hairstyling program is designed to meet the requirements for hairstylist certification in Ontario. The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical hands-on training to prepare you for the industry.
  

• Course Curriculum: The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including hair cutting, styling, colouring, smoothing, perming, and more. You will also learn about salon management, client consultation, and customer service skills.
  
  
• Practical Training: Private Colleges or training facilities emphasize on practical training to ensure you gain real-world experience. You will have the opportunity to work with mannequins and, eventually, practice on real clients under the guidance of experienced instructors. 
  

• Industry Connections: Different hair schools and hair colleges may also have the added benefits of strong industry connections and provide networking, guest speaker appearances, and job opportunities for students. These connections can open doors to internships, job placements, and mentorship programs, giving you a head start in your hairstyling career.
  

• School Culture & Student Learning Experience: A positive and inclusive school culture fosters a supportive and motivating environment where students can thrive, collaborate, and build lasting relationships with peers and instructors. A school that prioritizes hands-on training, industry connections, and opportunities for real-world experiences ensures that you receive a comprehensive education that prepares you for the challenges and demands of the hairstyling profession.
  

What are the admission requirements for the Hairstyling program?

General Hairstyling Program Requirements and High School Preparation

• Age: Most beauty schools require students to be at least 18 years old or have reached the age of majority in Ontario.

How Do I Apply to Hair School from High School?

An Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or an equivalent is required for hairstyling and barbering programs.

Since the study of hair is comprehensive, students who have interests in cross-disciplinary subjects such as: biology (for understanding hair structure), chemistry (for colour theory), art (for developing your creativity), psychology, and social studies ( for interacting with people effectively) and business (for salon management) may find a career in hairstyling or barbering rewarding and will expand on their interests. 

How Do I Apply to Hair School as a Mature Adult Student?

Mature students and non-secondary school applicants (19 years or older) may also be considered for admission. Applicants who have completed equivalent courses, upgraded, finished their GED, and passed equivalency testing may be eligible. For additional information, please contact our admissions office. here. 

While selecting your high school course subjects is important, choosing the best cosmetology school and hair school that supports your learning style as well as fostering a strong school culture and positive learning experience will contribute to your overall personal and professional growth. These factors will help you gain confidence, develop teamwork and communication skills, and feel empowered to explore your creativity, all of which are essential for a successful career as a hairstylist or barber.

Embarking on a career as a hairstylist in Ontario can be an exciting and rewarding journey. For more information about Eikonic’s Hairstyling and Barbering Diploma programs and specialization, speak to our career counsellors by scheduling a 15-minute call or email us at student.services@eikonicacademy.com