Beauty School Admissions & Enrollment in San Diego Area, California

Enrollment Requirements

To begin the enrollment process, you will typically need:

To be at least 16.5 years old to enroll and 17 years old to take the state licensing exams
A valid state-issued photo ID or passport
A Social Security number or ITIN
To successfully complete Alva’s Entrance Assessment
or GED or High School diploma
A reliable device for online coursework (such as a laptop, desktop, or tablet computer) and internet access

If you have questions about any of these requirements, please contact our team. We can tell you exactly what you’ll need depending on your situation and what to expect next.

How Enrollment Works at Alva Beauty Collective

Step 1: Schedule a Tour
The first step is a simple one: come in for a visit! A tour of our Chula Vista or Lemon Grove campuses will give you a chance to see where learning happens, ask us questions, and get a feel for what it’s like to be a student at Alva Beauty Collective. You can walk through the classrooms and training floors and learn how students move from online learning to in-person practice.

Step 2: Choose Your Program
Alva offers multiple pathways toward a future as a beauty professional. During your tour, our team can help you compare different training routes and choose based on what you want to learn, when you want to graduate, and where you want your training to lead next.

Our team can also explain what happens after your training, including preparing to sit for any state licensing exams or registering with professional bodies.

Step 3: Submit Your Documents & Fees
Once you are ready to move forward, our team will let you know exactly what you need to submit and when. We will also confirm your age and help you check off any program-specific requirements. If you want to know what’s covered in the assessment, we can explain what to expect and how to prepare.

This is a good time to consider your payment options, too. We can walk you through program costs and tell you what a realistic payment plan might look like for you.

Step 4: Attend Orientation & Start your program!
Once your admissions application is approved and you are officially enrolled, you will attend Orientation, which is scheduled every first Thursday of the month. Your program start date will be the following week.
Timing may depend on program availability and language preferences, so the Admissions Team will confirm your upcoming orientation and start dates with you.

Our team will guide you through each step of the admissions and enrollment process to ensure nothing is missed and that you feel supported as you begin your journey with ALVA Beauty Collective.

What Is It Like to Be an Alva Student?

You train intentionally. Class time is structured around hands-on learning, so every class feels like progress rather than busy work.
You learn in a hybrid format. Learn theory when and where it is best for you, giving you more flexibility to manage your training alongside other responsibilities.
You get useful feedback. Instructors watch your work, correct your technique, and help you improve with every service.
You can learn in English or Spanish. Train in the language you are most comfortable with, so language barriers don’t hold you back from gaining the education you need to reach your goals.
You practice in a professional setting. Many of our programs offer opportunities to practice techniques on real clients in our student salon, under the supervision of licensed professionals.
You are surrounded by support. From your classmates to the instructors and the school’s admin team, everyone here is focused on training and helping you achieve your goals.
If you are ready for training that puts technique first, schedule a tour and see one of our campuses in action.

Enroll in Beauty School

Talk to Our Team!

see what our students have to say

My experience at this beauty school has been a dream come true! I am excited to be a part of the Cosmetology program offered here with amazing educators like Amber and Daisy and the front desk staff is always so friendly and welcoming. I’m new at this program and already learned so much!

Denise B.

Thoroughly enjoyed my time at ALVA, loved building connections with my instructors/classmates while learning up to date techniques in the manicurist business world. Really appreciated getting real-world beauty service experiences. Also had so much fun while there!💕

Fernanda A.

After being in the dental field for 23 years I decided to go back to school To follow a passion of cutting hair. ALVA was a perfect opportunity to get the schooling I needed to be able to qualify for state board exam and not break the bank. The speedy curriculum and flexible hours made this possible for me. As a Mom and full time employee I needed that flexibility. They were very accommodating when my work schedules changed. The teachers are very knowledgeable on current protocols and techniques. The atmosphere is relaxed but offers the competitiveness that is sometimes helpful in that drive to be better. As one of the older students, I felt right at home and enjoyed the young energy that filled the air. My only regret… Is that I did not do this 23 years ago! The beauty industry is always growing and very competitive when it comes to what you can make financially. I should have done this so long ago!

Rebex Fin

Admissions & Enrollment FAQs

Do you offer all your programs at both campuses?

Our main campus in Lemon Grove is home to our Cosmetology, Esthetic, Massage Therapy, and Manicurist training programs. Our satellite campus in Chula Vista is dedicated to our Barber Training Program. Our team can help you compare the programs based on your goals, budget, and location, and help you choose the one that’s best for you. Chula Vista will be offering all programs in late 2026.

Can I enroll without a high school diploma or GED?

Yes! Alva Beauty Collective welcomes students who do not have a high school diploma or GED as long as they can successfully complete the entrance assessment. The assessment helps us confirm that they are ready to handle the coursework and training expectations. Our team can explain what the assessment covers and the best way to prepare for it.

How does hybrid training work?

Our hybrid learning model combines online theory instruction with in-person hands-on training. Students complete theory assignments online at their own pace and on their own schedule; however, a minimum of 12 theory hours per week is required to remain on track in the program.

In-person class time is dedicated to practical training, including demonstrations, guided practice, and working with real clients in our student salon under the supervision of licensed professionals. This structure allows students to focus on developing hands-on skills during class rather than spending

Do you offer financial aid?

Yes! We offer TFC financing and MYCAA funding to help make your education more accessible. Our admissions team can help guide you through the available options and find a plan that works best for you.

Admissions & Enrollment

Schedule Your Tour

Find Support With the Next Steps

Enrollment Requirements

How Enrollment Works at Alva Beauty Collective

What Is It Like to Be an Alva Student?

Enroll in Beauty School

see what our students have to say

Admissions & Enrollment FAQs

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We Can Help You Take the Next Step

Lemon Grove

Chula Vista