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Buff Beauty Academy · Quick answers

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Nail Technology$4,500Regular tuition · 300 hours
Saturday-only: $5,500
Esthetics$7,500Regular tuition · 600 hours
Saturday-only: $9,500
Registration$150Additional · Nonrefundable
Applying online is free

Saturday-only admission requires an interview and approval. Certification add-ons and other applicable costs are separate.

Tuition & paymentsClasses & schedulesHow to enrollTraining & services

Tuition & payments

How much is tuition?

Nails: $4,500 regular or $5,500 Saturday-only. Esthetics: $7,500 regular or $9,500 Saturday-only. Each option has a separate $150 nonrefundable registration fee.

See tuition and payment details →
Do you offer payment plans?

Yes. Interest-free school installment plans are available. Admissions confirms your down payment, installment amounts and due dates. Afterpay and Klarna are separate options, subject to provider approval and terms.

How much do I need to start?

The regular Nail Technology down payment is $1,500 toward tuition, plus the separate $150 nonrefundable registration fee. Ask admissions for the down payment for Esthetics or Saturday-only training.

Is the application free?

Yes. Applying is free. The $150 nonrefundable registration fee is paid during enrollment after admissions review. An application alone does not reserve a seat.

Are kits and certifications included?

Confirm the complete cost breakdown with admissions before enrolling. Kit distribution follows the training sequence and your enrollment agreement. HydraFacial certification costs extra, and its certification kit is purchased separately.

Classes & schedules

How long are the programs?

Nail Technology requires 300 clock hours. Esthetics requires 600 clock hours. Your calendar completion date depends on your schedule, attendance and completion of required work and practical performances.

Can I attend while working?

Regular classes meet Tuesday–Thursday, 5:30–8:30 PM, and Saturday, 9:00 AM–3:00 PM. Online theory and assignments may require additional time. Confirm your assigned training plan with admissions.

Can I attend on Saturdays only?

Yes. Separate Saturday-only tracks are available for serious students after an interview and approval. Saturday training is 9:00 AM–3:00 PM. Theory and assignments may require work outside Saturday sessions.

Is the program completely online?

No. Online theory is combined with required in-person training and supervised clinic practice at our Charlotte school.

When does the next class start?

Esthetics begins November 9, 2026, with the first classroom day November 10. Call or text for current Nail Technology start dates, Saturday-only starts and available seats.

Eligibility & enrollment

How old do I need to be? Do I need a diploma or GED?

BBA accepts students ages 16 and up. A high school diploma or GED is not required for admission to BBA. Admissions will confirm your document checklist and any requirements for applicants under 18.

Do you offer Spanish instruction?

Spanish-language theory is available. Ask admissions how hands-on instruction and assessments are delivered for your program.

How do I become a student?

Apply online, speak with admissions, then complete your required documents, enrollment agreement and payments. We will confirm your enrollment and provide your class instructions.

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What documents do I need?

Prepare photo identification and the Social Security documentation requested by admissions. Admissions will confirm the full checklist and how to submit it. Please do not text sensitive identification documents.

Can I tour the school first?

Yes. Call or text 980-500-0510 to request a tour. Send FUTURE ME or GLOWUP with your name and the program you are interested in.

Where is the school?

2848 Queen City Drive, Suite M, Charlotte, NC 28208. Contact admissions to arrange your visit.

Training & student services

What makes BBA different?

Small classes, personal mentorship, hands-on clinic practice, State Board preparation and business-minded learning—from Student to Suite to Salon. Explore our professional-brand training and partnerships with admissions.

What is your State Board pass rate?

BBA reports a 100% first-attempt State Board pass rate. Students must complete their work, practice and follow instructor guidance. Past results do not guarantee individual outcomes.

Do you offer advanced training or internships?

Ask about PCA Skin education, HydraFacial certification, ProCell opportunities and salon or service-provider partnerships. Availability, prerequisites and fees vary. Internships require student eligibility, school approval and partner availability; placement is not guaranteed.

Can I book a nail or facial service?

Yes. Our student clinic offers nail and esthetic services performed by students under licensed instructor supervision. Services depend on student availability and readiness. Your service price is confirmed before treatment.

Explore student clinic services →

Still have a question?

If your question is not answered here, call or text admissions. We’ll help you understand your options.

980-500-0510

Text FUTURE ME or GLOWUP with your name, your program of interest and your question.

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