Schools typically require you to produce a driver’s license or other state-issued identification and your high school diploma or GED. If you cannot produce your diploma or GED, you may be asked to show high school transcripts. Some schools ask for social security number, but that is typically on the financial aid forms you can fill out to apply for tuition assistance. The FAFSA links directly to the IRS nowadays, so you shouldn’t even need to bring your (or your parents’) tax records in to the school apply for financial aid – just your ID. If you are not yet 18 years of age, you may need parental consent. Some schools ask for letters of recommendation along with your beauty school application. If you are transferring your hours from one beauty school to another, you will need to provide a transcript with proof of hours from your previous school. Depending on your state board of cosmetology’s regulations, you may need your prior school’s bills paid in full in order for them to release the hours. On some beauty school applications, we have heard of video essays, written essays, short answer questions, and aptitude tests being part of the application process, but this is on a school by school basis, not an industry standard. Watch our video on transferring to a new beauty school