Are you a student thinking about becoming a hairstylist in Ontario? You may already know that you need to become a member of the Ontario College of Trades before you start snipping, dying and curling your way to riches. Before you can work as a hairstylist, you must register as an apprentice and gain a Certificate of Qualification. For most students this means finding a training course but with so many hairstyling diploma programs to choose from, finding the perfect one for you will be a challenge.
How To Become A Hairstylist In Ontario
You will need to complete a training course and an apprenticeship to receive a Certificate of Apprenticeship through the Workplace Training Branch Apprenticeship offices. Once you meet the requirements, you must complete and submit an application for the Certificate of Qualification and pass an exam. Once you pass, you are free to gain employment as a fully qualified hairstylist and employers will expect to see your certificates as well as evidence of your ability.
Look For Courses Offering Financial Assistance
As a student, money might be the biggest obstacle for you. With an apprenticeship taking 2–3 years of on-the-job training and 16 weeks of in-school training, fees can easily run to $6,000 or higher. If finances are a concern, look for programs whose students are eligible for financial assistance under government programs. Ontario runs as Student Assistance Program (OSAP) that helps apprentices such as hairstylists with the financial side of their course. Depending on your personal situation, you may be eligible for help under the Canada Student Loans Program (CSL) and/or the Ontario Student Loans Program (OSL). Finding an eligible course is a great way to narrow down your choices.
Look For Courses With Ministry Approval
While almost all hairstylist programs are 1,500 hours, not all courses are Ministry approved. You may be unaware that Ministry approved courses require you to complete only 2,000 hours of on-the-job-training. This is just 250 eight-hour shifts and lets you complete the training in just 50 weeks (if you are a full-time apprentice) instead of the typical 2-3 years. As an apprentice, you will earn at least minimum wage while working and learning the necessary skills to receive your Certificate of Apprenticeship. Ministry approved courses will lead to your Certificate Of Qualification in record time.
Look For Courses With Customized Schedules
Customized schedules help students in two main ways. Firstly, they let your complete your 1,500-hour course by working around your other priorities such as work and family commitments. Some colleges with help you arrange a customized schedule to suit you and your needs. Secondly, different schedules can help you balance your finances. For example, if a course costs $6,200 for 10 months if you follow a day schedule, this will cost you $620 per month and not all of us can afford this or be free every day. Customized schedules such as evening classes will spread the work over a longer period, say 23 months, and yet give you a much lower monthly payment of $270. Many students find this easier to juggle around work and family priorities.