Your Beauty School Tour Checklist

Choosing a beauty school is more than just finding a place to earn your license—it’s about finding a place where your future begins. That’s why taking a school tour is such an important step. At DuVall’s School of Cosmetology, we know how much this decision matters. Whether you’re drawn to hairstyling, skincare, or makeup artistry, your beauty school tour is your chance to see what life as a student will be like—and we want to help you make the most of it.

To help you feel prepared, confident, and empowered, we’ve created a beauty school tour checklist. From what questions to ask, to what details to observe, this guide will walk you through the essentials of a successful visit.

Before Your Tour: Do Some Prep Work

A great tour starts with preparation. Doing some research ahead of time ensures that you ask meaningful questions and get the most out of your visit.

Research the School

• Visit our website and explore the programs we offer.
• Read about our history, mission, and student success stories.
• Follow us on Instagram to get a feel for our culture and community.

Make a List of Your Goals

• Are you more interested in cosmetology or esthetics?
• Are you looking for flexible scheduling, *financial aid, or a school with job placement assistance?
• Do you prefer hands-on training or a combination of theory and practice?

Knowing what you’re looking for helps you ask focused questions during your tour.

What to Bring With You

You don’t need to bring much, but these few items will help you stay organized:

• A notebook or notes app to jot down impressions and questions
• A list of questions you want to ask (we’ve included some below!)
• Your ID (some schools require it for registration or tour entry)
• A friend or family member, if you want a second opinion

During Your Tour: What to Look For

Walking through the halls of your potential future school can be exciting, but also a little overwhelming. Here are key areas to observe and evaluate.

The Atmosphere and Vibe

Your first impression matters! Ask yourself:

• Is the school welcoming and friendly?
• Do students seem engaged and confident?
• Does the environment feel clean, professional, and inspiring?

At DuVall’s, we pride ourselves on creating a positive, supportive atmosphere that feels like home from day one.

Program Offerings and Curriculum

Make sure the program you’re interested in offers the skills and certifications you need. Ask:

• What topics and techniques are covered?
• How is the curriculum structured?
• Will I get hands-on experience with real clients?
• What kind of tools, kits, or technology will I be using?

At DuVall’s, our curriculum blends creative techniques, business education, and real-world salon experience so you’re career-ready upon graduation.

Facilities and Equipment

Take a close look at the learning environment:

• Are the classrooms and salon floor modern and well-maintained?
• Do students have access to professional-grade tools and products?
• Is there space for both practice and theory-based learning?

Our campus is equipped with up-to-date esthetics labs, hair styling stations, and tech-forward classrooms to give you the tools you need to thrive.

Instructors and Staff

Your educators will shape your beauty journey—so don’t be shy about asking questions:

• Are instructors licensed and experienced?
• Do they seem passionate about teaching?
• Is there academic or career counseling available?
• What is the student-to-teacher ratio?

At DuVall’s, our licensed instructors bring both industry experience and a deep commitment to student success.

Key Questions to Ask on Your Tour

Don’t be afraid to speak up! A school tour is your chance to gather all the information you need to make a confident decision.

Program-Specific Questions

• How long does the program take to complete?
• What does a typical week look like for a student?
• Are there part-time or evening options?

Career Preparation Questions

• Do you offer help with resume building or mock interviews?
• Is there a job placement program or local salon partnerships?
• What kind of success have past graduates had?

Financial Aid and Costs

• What is the total cost of tuition, fees, and kits?
• Is financial aid available? (DuVall’s is eligible to offer federal financial aid to those who qualify!)
• Are there payment plans or scholarship opportunities?

Student Life and Support

• What kind of student support services are available?
• Is there mentorship or coaching available throughout the program?
• What’s the community like among students?

Red Flags to Watch For

While we hope every tour is a positive experience, it’s important to keep your eyes open for potential warning signs:

• Outdated facilities or worn-down equipment
• Disengaged or disorganized staff
• Vague answers about the curriculum or job placement
• No financial aid counseling or transparency

At DuVall’s, we’re transparent, professional, and committed to your success, which is exactly what you should expect from a beauty school.

After Your Tour: Reflect and Compare

Once your tour is over, take some time to reflect on your experience. Ask yourself:

• Did I feel inspired and excited?
• Did I feel supported and welcomed?
• Could I imagine myself thriving in that environment?

If you toured multiple schools, create a pros and cons list. Evaluate everything from cost and curriculum to culture and career support.

Sample Reflection Questions:

• What stood out most about DuVall’s?
• Did the instructors and staff take the time to answer your questions?
• Was the tour organized and informative?
• How does DuVall’s compare to other schools in terms of value?

What Makes DuVall’s School of Cosmetology Stand Out

We know you have choices when it comes to beauty education, but here’s what sets us apart at DuVall’s:

Licensed, Professional Instructors

Our educators have years of experience in cosmetology and esthetics, and they’re passionate about teaching the next generation of professionals.

Real-World Salon Experience

From *working with clients on the clinic floor to learning proper etiquette and time management, you’ll gain hands-on experience that translates to real jobs.

Business + Beauty Education

We don’t just teach beauty—we teach you how to build a career, including client retention, retail skills, marketing, and social media.

Flexible Scheduling

We offer full-time and part-time schedules to help students balance school with work, family, or other responsibilities.

Financial Aid Support

Our financial aid advisors are here to help you navigate tuition, federal aid, and payment plans so you can start your education with confidence.

Ready to Schedule Your Tour?

A beauty career starts with the right education—and the right school. Whether you’re drawn to cosmetology or esthetics, DuVall’s School of Cosmetology is here to help you succeed.

We invite you to schedule a personalized tour, meet our instructors, explore our campus, and discover how we can help you turn your passion into a profession.

At DuVall’s School of Cosmetology, your journey is our priority. We’re not just training beauty professionals—we’re helping students build long-term, fulfilling careers. So come take a tour. Ask the hard questions. Imagine your future here.

We’re ready when you are.

*financial aid is only available to those who qualify

*All services provided by students under the supervision of licensed professionals.