News & Events
The Ultimate 600-Hour Esthetician Program in Raleigh NC
- March 31, 2026
- Posted by: CuongVong
- Category: Vocational Training
Becoming a licensed NC esthetician takes 600 supervised training hours and a 75% pass on both State Board exams. At an esthetician school Raleigh NC like 5T Beauty Academy, those 600 hours cover 8 core skills, plus advanced device training (LED, microcurrent, microdermabrasion). To start, the program runs $9,950 all-in. Plus, weekly plans from $320 keep the cost manageable. So the question is not can you afford the license — it is which schedule fits your life?
This esthetician school Raleigh NC guide walks you through every step. To begin, you see the NC State Board licensing rules. Next, we cover why 5T Beauty Academy stands out in Wake County. After that, we map Full-Time and Part-Time schedules. Plus, the curriculum (basic skills + clinical advanced certs) gets a deep dive. Finally, we walk through tuition, payment plans, exam prep, and how to enroll in under a week. By the end, you will know how to start a licensed career inside 4 months.
Table of Contents
- Inside the 600-Hour Esthetician School Raleigh NC Program
- Why Choose 5T as Your Esthetician School Raleigh NC
- Flexible Schedules at Your Esthetician School Raleigh NC
- Esthetician School Raleigh NC Curriculum and Skills
- Esthetician School Raleigh NC Tuition and Payment Plans
- NC State Board Exam Prep and Graduation Requirements
- How to Enroll at Your Esthetician School Raleigh NC
- Frequently Asked Questions
Inside the 600-Hour Esthetician School Raleigh NC Program
NC requires 600 supervised hours at a state-approved esthetician school Raleigh NC, plus passing both Theory and Practical exams at 75% with an $84 fee per exam.

State Mandates and Esthetician School Raleigh NC Licensing Fees
NC sets clear rules for licensure. To meet them, you must finish 600 hours at a state-approved school. Plus, the school must hold an active NCBCAE license. As a result, this rule protects clients and keeps the trade legit.
Beyond hours, you must budget for state fees. Each State Board exam costs $84. Plus, your active license needs annual renewal. So budgeting for these recurring fees is part of smart career planning. Above all, an active license is required by law to serve clients.
Exam Criteria and Career Outlook
To earn your license, two exams stand between you and salon work. Both Theory and Practical demand a 75% pass. So your school must drill both halves hard. Theory tests anatomy, chemistry, and infection control. Meanwhile, the Practical scores hands-on form under live observation.
After licensing, you enter a hot job market. Med-spas, dermatology clinics, and luxury resorts hire fast. Plus, the 2026 outlook rewards independents and salon owners alike. As a result, grads tailor work to their lifestyle and income goals. Above all, the license opens doors to the wider wellness sector.
Why Choose 5T as Your Esthetician School Raleigh NC
5T Beauty Academy sits at 3306 Capital Blvd in Raleigh — central, ample parking, and a clinic-grade learning floor where students train on the same devices used in luxury Triangle med-spas.

Local Esthetician School Raleigh NC Campus Access
Finding an easy-to-reach campus matters when you balance work and class. Our facility sits at 3306 Capital Blvd, Unit C, Raleigh, NC 27604. As a result, this central spot is the ideal “esthetician school near me” for local residents. Plus, ample parking and major transit routes make daily commutes simple.
Our floor is set up like a real high-end spa. In fact, students train on the same devices found in luxury clinics. So this immersive setting bridges classroom theory with salon-floor reality. Above all, training in a pro space builds confidence well before graduation.
A Mastery-Based Educational Philosophy
Our motto says it best: “You don’t just learn to pass — you learn to master.” So we focus on turning your passion into a profitable, legal career. As a result, grads leave as confident, skilled industry leaders. Therefore, the academy ranks among the top picks for a beauty school Raleigh NC.
We blend classroom learning with modern digital tools. For example, instructors offer 1:1 mentorship so every student feels valued. Moreover, online platforms supplement intensive hands-on practice. As a result, the hybrid setup fits various learning styles. Above all, we stay committed to your success past the State Board.
Flexible Schedules at Your Esthetician School Raleigh NC
Full-Time runs 38 hrs/week (M–F, 9 AM–5 PM, 16–18 weeks). Part-Time runs 28 hrs/week (M–W evenings + Sat day + 8–10 hrs online via CIMA, 22–24 weeks).

Accelerated Esthetician School Raleigh NC Full-Time Track
Many students want to start work fast. So our Full-Time schedule fits dedicated learners. Each week packs 38 hours of training. As a result, the 600 hours wrap up in just 16 to 18 weeks. Above all, this track is ideal for those who want to launch a career as quick as possible.
Daytime classes run Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM. Plus, we offer structured make-up hours for missed sessions. For example, Full-Time students can stay late on weekdays or join Saturday sessions. However, the state caps daily training at 10 hours. As a result, our team monitors attendance for full state compliance.
Part-Time and Hybrid Esthetician School Raleigh NC Options
Working pros and busy parents pick our Part-Time program. Notably, this track wraps up in 22 to 24 weeks at 28 hours weekly. Evening classes run Monday through Wednesday, 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM. Full-day sessions land on Saturdays from 9 AM to 5 PM. As a result, you keep your day job while training.
Both tracks bake in flexible online modules. Indeed, 8 to 10 hours of weekly theory work happens online. Moreover, this digital piece adds personal convenience without losing quality. So you can study skin anatomy from your couch. Above all, the modern setup fits your peak learning hours.
Esthetician School Raleigh NC Curriculum and Skills
The 600-hour curriculum covers 8 hands-on skills (makeup, lashes, facials, body wraps, waxing, brow tinting, lash lift, brow lamination) plus advanced device training in LED, microcurrent, microdermabrasion, and chemical peels.

Eight Core Esthetician School Raleigh NC Skills
Our syllabus covers 8 hands-on skills required for state licensure. To start, students drill pro Makeup application and precise Eyelash extensions. Plus, the program covers basic Facials, relaxing Body Wraps, and safe Waxing. As a result, you build a versatile skill set that broad spa employers seek. Above all, mastering these skills is the first step in your career.
Beyond basics, we cover modern brow and lash trends. For example, you learn protocols for Brow Tinting and flawless Lash Lifts. Plus, instructors teach Brow Lamination using premium salon products. As a result, grads can offer high-demand services right after license. Indeed, every move is practiced under direct supervision for total safety.
Advanced Facial Devices and Clinical Treatments
To stand out in 2026, estheticians must run high-tech equipment. So our students master High Frequency and LED Light Therapy machines. High Frequency uses targeted thermal energy to kill acne bacteria. Meanwhile, LED Light Therapy boosts collagen and cuts facial inflammation. As a result, you offer non-invasive solutions for tough skin issues.
Our curriculum also covers Oxygen Infusion and Microcurrent devices. Indeed, Microcurrent acts as a non-surgical facelift by toning facial muscles. Meanwhile, Oxygen Infusion deeply hydrates for a radiant glow. So knowing the science behind these tools lifts your pro status. Above all, this tech know-how lets you charge premium rates.
Specializing in Anti-Aging Protocols
Our program goes beyond basic beauty into clinical work. To grow your range, students train in Nano and Micro Needling for collagen boost. Plus, these methods improve skin texture and cut acne scarring. Moreover, we teach safe Dermaplaning to remove dead skin and vellus hair. As a result, you handle advanced, results-driven clinical treatments.
We push hard on anti-aging skill and skin science. For example, students learn to mix and apply Advanced Chemical Peels safely. Plus, these peels treat hyperpigmentation, melasma, and severe acne. As a result, grads stand out as anti-aging specialists in a hot market. Above all, you understand the recovery rules after intense treatments.
Esthetician School Raleigh NC Tuition and Payment Plans
The complete esthetician school Raleigh NC program costs $9,950 all-in (tuition + kit + textbook + CIMA access). Weekly plans start at $320; a 5% pay-in-full discount drops the bill further.

Esthetician School Raleigh NC Total Investment
| Cost Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Tuition (Full-Time, 600 hrs) | $8,400 |
| Required Enrollment Package | $1,550 |
| NC State Board Exam Fees (2 × $84) | $168 |
| Total All-In (Full-Time) | $10,118 |
Education is the biggest career money move you make. Our program totals $9,950 (tuition $8,400 + package $1,550). Plus the $168 in state exam fees, you total $10,118 all-in for Full-Time. As a result, the price funds your future earning power. Above all, transparent fees mean no hidden surprises mid-program.
The $1,550 package covers more than registration. Notably, it includes two 5T uniforms with name tags. Plus, the Milady Esthetics textbook and full CIMA online access ship with it. As a result, you walk in day one with every theory tool needed. Indeed, you skip the upfront tool spend most schools tack on later.
Pro Kits and Weekly Payment Options
The package also delivers a pro-grade student kit. Indeed, the kit holds premium tools for facials, waxing, lash extensions, and makeup. Moreover, training on pro tools builds muscle memory and confidence. As a result, you skip outside supply runs during daily drills. Above all, this kit serves as your toolkit when you launch a salon.
We offer flexible weekly plans for every budget. For example, the 16-week Full-Time plan runs $525/week. Meanwhile, the 22-week Part-Time plan runs $436/week. Plus, students who pay in full get a 5% discount. As a result, premium esthetic education stays accessible for every dedicated applicant.
NC State Board Exam Prep and Graduation Requirements
To graduate, students must pass three Mock Tests at 95% (two on 5T’s system, one on CIMA) and submit a Final Skills Video — a bar set well above the State Board’s 75% pass mark.

Mock Tests and Milady Integration
Prep for the State Board demands focus and structured review. Our theory work aligns with industry-standard Milady textbooks. Plus, we cover skin structure, infectious diseases, and product chemistry. Moreover, this curriculum syncs with the interactive CIMA online platform. As a result, students track progress and review tough concepts at home.
Approval for the real exam needs proven readiness. To meet our standard, students pass three Mock Tests before graduation. You must hit 95% on two internal 5T tests and one CIMA test. Plus, mock exams mimic real State Board pressure. As a result, this protocol drives our high first-time pass rates.
Practical Procedures and Final Skills Video
The Practical exam scores flawless sanitation work. So we drill Blood Exposure procedures and Final Setup routines. Examiners watch infection control closely during these phases. Plus, our instructors put extensive class time on these exact protocols. As a result, students build muscle memory for live observation.
Before graduation, every student finishes a final practical assessment. Each student records and submits a detailed “Final Skills Video” to instructors. Plus, the video must show real proficiency in core moves and sanitation. Moreover, this rule lets instructors give detailed, custom feedback. Above all, the video confirms you are ready for the practical exam.
How to Enroll at Your Esthetician School Raleigh NC
To enroll, call (919) 615-3031, email 5tbeauty.academy.nc@gmail.com, or visit 3306 Capital Blvd, Unit C, Raleigh, NC 27604. Most students finish enrollment in under one week.

Taking Your First Step at Esthetician School Raleigh NC
Enrolling in our program is simple and supportive. First, reach out to admissions to share your career goals. Plus, our counselors help you pick Full-Time or Part-Time. Moreover, all applicants are invited to schedule an in-person campus tour. As a result, you experience our pro spa floor and meet expert instructors.
During the tour, you see advanced facial devices in action. Plus, you can review pro student kits and inspect modern classrooms. Moreover, financial advisors explain weekly payment plans in detail. As a result, you leave with a clear view of your educational path. Above all, this first step builds the base for a long career.
Visit the Campus and Apply Online
Reaching admissions is fast and easy for prospective students. Call our enrollment hotline at (919) 615-3031 during business hours. Or, email 5tbeauty.academy.nc@gmail.com for a prompt response. Plus, walk-ins are welcome at our main campus on Capital Blvd. As a result, the info you need is just a quick call or visit away.
Ready to lock your seat? The online application is streamlined. Visit www.5tbeautyacademy.org for upcoming program start dates. Plus, the site features a secure portal for your initial application. Moreover, you can review the full tuition breakdown online. As a result, your career launch is one click away.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is esthetician school Raleigh NC?
NC requires 600 hours of training. Full-Time finishes in 16 to 18 weeks at 38 hours per week. Part-Time finishes in 22 to 24 weeks at 28 hours per week, including 8 to 10 hours of weekly online study. Both tracks earn the same NC Esthetic License.
How much does esthetician school Raleigh NC cost?
The complete program at 5T Beauty Academy is $9,950 — that is $8,400 tuition plus a $1,550 enrollment package (kit, books, uniforms, CIMA access). Add $168 in NC State Board exam fees, and your total all-in for Full-Time is $10,118. The 5% pay-in-full discount lowers the bill further.
What payment plans are available?
Weekly in-house plans run from $320 to $525 over 16 to 30 weeks, with no bank interest. Plus, Ignyte by Yrefy student loans split tuition into $100 to $200 monthly payments. The 5% pay-in-full discount also applies to budget-conscious students.
What is the NC State Board exam pass rate target?
NC State Board sets the pass mark at 75% for both Theory and Practical exams. At 5T, students must hit 95% on three internal Mock Tests before graduation. As a result, the school’s bar sits well above the state mark, which drives high first-time pass rates.
What advanced certs come with the program?
Beyond the 8 core skills, students train on advanced devices: High Frequency, LED Light Therapy, Microcurrent, Oxygen Infusion. Plus, the program covers Nano and Micro Needling, Dermaplaning, and Chemical Peels for clinical-grade work. As a result, grads charge premium rates from day one.
Does 5T offer bilingual instruction?
Yes. The academy provides classes in English, Vietnamese, and Spanish. As a result, students grasp anatomy and chemistry in their first language. Indeed, that bilingual edge also helps grads book diverse clients in Triangle salons after graduation.
How do I lock in my esthetician school Raleigh NC seat?
Call (919) 615-3031, email 5tbeauty.academy.nc@gmail.com, or visit 3306 Capital Blvd, Unit C, Raleigh, NC 27604. Bring your high school diploma and government ID, pay the $1,550 enrollment package, and pick your weekly plan. Most students finish enrollment in under one week.
Conclusion
Becoming a licensed NC esthetician demands 600 hours of training and a 75% pass on both State Board exams. At 5T Beauty Academy, those hours cover 8 hands-on skills plus advanced device training and clinical certs. Plus, the program totals $9,950 with weekly plans from $320 to keep costs manageable. As a result, you can build a real career inside 4 months.
Ready to turn skincare passion into a profession? Call 5T Beauty Academy at (919) 615-3031 or visit www.5tbeautyacademy.org to enroll in the next 600-hour cohort.
About 5T Beauty Academy: Licensed by the North Carolina Board of Cosmetic Art Examiners (NCBCAE). Bilingual instruction in English, Vietnamese, and Spanish. Curriculum reviewed by our lead esthetics instructor.
Disclosure: Tuition, schedule, and licensing fees are current as of April 2026 and subject to change. Licensing requirements are governed by the North Carolina Board of Cosmetic Art Examiners. Career outlook data: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics — Skincare Specialists (SOC 39-5094).