Invest in a Career
that you
will love
A career in beauty and wellness is closer and more affordable than you might think. Our scholarships are designed to reward your commitment and passion — and they stack on top of federal financial aid and flexible payment plans so you can focus on your future, not your tuition bill. Explore the scholarships below, then talk with an admissions advisor to find the largest award you qualify for.
Scholarships
Start-Date / Fast-Track Scholarship
Commit to your start date and save
For students who enroll and commit to a specific upcoming class start date by the deadline. The earlier you commit before your start date, the larger your award! Up to $2,500 rewarded.
Future Pro Merit Scholarship
Show us your passion
For motivated applicants who show creativity and drive. Share a portfolio, a short essay or video, or a strong GPA, then complete a brief merit interview with admissions. Up to $3,000 rewarded.
Career Changer Scholarship
our second act starts here
For adults changing careers or returning to the workforce — including veterans and military spouses — ready to build a career in beauty and wellness. Up to $1,500 rewarded.
High School Senior Scholarship
Your beauty-full life after graduation
For current high school seniors and recent graduates (within 12 months). Enroll while you are still in school or soon after graduation to earn the largest award. Up to $2,000 rewarded.
Refer-a-Friend Scholarship
Bring a friend — you both win
For current students who refer a friend who enrolls and starts. You both receive a tuition credit — and it stacks on top of any other scholarship. $500 for you + $500 for them rewarded.
More Ways to Save
Alumni Educator Scholarship
From Graduate to Mentor
For graduates of any of our campuses who return to pursue Instructor training and teach the next generation of beauty professionals.
Continuing-Path Scholarship
Expand Your Skills, Expand Your Future
For current students and recent graduates who add a second program — such as adding Manicuring or Barbering to Cosmetology, or Massage to Esthiology.
How to apply for a
Scholarship
- Request info or apply – Email admissions@ibw.edu or hit the apply button under the scholarship you want to apply for!
- Meet with admissions – Take a tour and talk through your goals, timeline, and the scholarships you qualify for.
- Complete the FAFSA – We help you file so your scholarship layers on top of any federal aid you receive.
- Choose your start date – Lock in your program and start date; commit early to earn the largest award.
Disclaimer: Scholarship amounts vary by program and campus and are awarded as a credit toward tuition (not cash). Specific programs differ by location. Scholarships are combined with federal Title IV aid where eligible; your Financial Aid office confirms your final package. Contact your campus for current deadlines and details.
Scholarship FAQs
Scholarship
FAQs
Does the Aveda Institute offer scholarships?
Yes. The Institute of Beauty and Wellness and the Aveda Institutes in Milwaukee, Madison, and Chicago offer institutional scholarships for every entry program. Awards are applied directly to your tuition and can be combined with federal financial aid.
How much are the scholarships worth?
Scholarship awards range from a few hundred dollars up to $3,000, depending on the program you choose and the scholarship you qualify for. Your admissions advisor will help you find the largest award you are eligible for.
Can I combine a scholarship with financial aid or FAFSA?
Yes. Our scholarships stack on top of federal Title IV aid, including Pell Grants. Complete the FAFSA and we will package your scholarship with any federal aid you qualify for, so you see one clear out-of-pocket cost.
Do I have to pay the scholarship back?
No. These are institutional scholarships — a credit toward your tuition, not a loan. There is nothing to repay.
Which programs are eligible for scholarships?
Cosmetology, Barbering, Esthiology/Esthetics, Massage Therapy, and Manicuring programs are eligible, along with Instructor training. Specific programs vary by campus — ask your admissions advisor which are offered at your location.
Are there scholarships for high school seniors?
Yes. Our High School Senior Scholarship is for current seniors and recent graduates within 12 months of graduation — and the sooner you enroll after graduating, the larger the award.
Are there scholarships for career changers or veterans?
Yes. The Career Changer Scholarship supports adults switching careers or returning to the workforce, including veterans and military spouses.
How do I apply for a scholarship?
Start by requesting information or applying online, then meet with an admissions advisor, complete your FAFSA, and choose your program and start date. Your advisor confirms your scholarship and applies it to your enrollment agreement.
When should I apply for a scholarship?
As early as possible. Our Start-Date Scholarship rewards early commitment — the further ahead of your class start date you enroll, the more you can save.
Which campuses offer these scholarships?
All three: The Institute of Beauty and Wellness in Milwaukee, Aveda Institute Madison, and Aveda Institute Chicago.