Guidelines for opening a school related to cosmetology or barbering

These guidelines are meant to provide prospective schools with an overview of the school licensure process.  

Before applying to open an advanced, aesthetics, cosmetology, barbering, electrology, or manicuring school in Massachusetts, make sure to review all statutes and regulations listed in Massachusetts General Law c. 112 87T to 87KK and 240 CMR 2.00 to 11.00.

Application process

• Review premises requirements  (found in 240 CMR 2.00 to 11.00)
• When you have found a space that will meet the board's premises requirements, contact the board office for a preliminary review of the prospective space
• Choose a name for the school 
• Prepare the draft floorplan, enrollment agreement, and handbook/catalog. Please use the checklist included in the School Opening guidelines for your enrollment agreement and handbook/catalog
• Prepare a detailed curriculum that meets the framework requirements in the board's school regulations (240CMR 4:00-11:00)
• Hire instructors
• Submit documentation to the board for approval 
• School owner/representative attends board meeting  
• After board approval of documentation, begin advertising and choose an opening date (at least 1 month after board approval) 
• Submit an enrollment report with names of students 
• Contact the board office to schedule a final walk-through and inspection
• After final walk-through approval, submit a paper application and fee 
• Once approved, the school is licensed and may open