Olivia TaylorI’m not aiming for basic brush skills. I want the kind of training that could eventually get my work noticed across Ottawa as one of the best makeup artists.
That’s why choosing the right program matters so much. The best beauty school in Ottawa should offer real hands-on practice, strong instructors, and plenty of client-focused training.
Whether you’re dreaming of bridal looks, editorial makeup, or your own studio, solid training is the first big move. So, we narrowed down the top schools that can help turn raw talent into a proper career.
How much does beauty school cost in Ottawa?
Beauty school in Ottawa can cost anywhere from about $5,000 for shorter courses to $25,000 for full medical aesthetics diplomas.
Full esthetics and medical aesthetics diplomas usually run $10,000 to $25,000. Hairstyling and barbering programs are typically around $9,500 to $14,000.
Short certificate courses can cost about $1,500 to $5,000. You should also budget $500 to $2,000 for student kits and equipment.
Textbooks and materials may add another $200 to $1,600. Admin and exam fees are usually around $150 to $200.
1. Versailles Academy of Make-Up Arts, Esthetics, Hair
Address: Unit 1 – 1930 Bank Street
Contact: 613-521-4155
Hours: Monday-Friday, 9 AM – 5 PM
If I were serious about turning makeup skills into a proper career, Versailles Academy would definitely catch my eye. It’s family-owned and independent and feels a lot less cookie-cutter than a big franchise school.
There’s plenty of choice too, with diploma and certificate programs covering makeup, esthetics, hair, nails, and more.
I also like that students can get practical experience in the school’s own salon and spa environment.
Its industry connections are another plus, especially if you’re hoping to move into a local salon or spa after graduating. That kind of exposure can make the jump from classroom to client chair feel a little less daunting.
The main catch is the schedule. Core diploma programs run full-time on weekdays, which could be tricky if you’re already working regular office hours.
Supportive Makeup Artistry Training
I am currently enrolled in the part-time Makeup Artistry program, and my experience at Versailles has been amazing! do not regret choosing this school, which is characterized by the quality of the training, the seriousness and the dedication of our teacher, Kim. She taught us the necessary techniques to succeed in a makeup artist career. It’s a very dynamic school that offers great educational programs. I highly recommend it!!
- Sara | Google Review
Knowledgeable Teachers and Organized Learning Environment
I am currently a student attending Versailles Academy. Never have I been in a school more clean and organized. The teachers are beyond knowledgeable and helpful in teaching esthetics. I’m so grateful for my Versailles education.
- Trippy Hippy | Google Review
2. Academy 2121
Address: 2121 Carling Ave (Next to the Dollarama)
Contact: 613-725-2121 | [email protected]
Hours: Monday-Friday, 9 AM – 5 PM | Saturday, 10 AM – 3 PM
There’s only so much beauty training you can absorb from a mannequin head. Academy 2121 stands out for getting students into supervised work with real clients and live models early on.
I also like the flexibility here. You can choose full-time or part-time diploma options, so retraining doesn’t have to completely bulldoze your schedule.
There’s a good mix of longer diplomas and targeted certificate courses too. That makes it easier to build skills step by step instead of committing to everything at once.
The main drawback is that the practical side can be pretty demanding. If you’re juggling work or other commitments, the hands-on training load may take some careful planning.
Modern Facilities and Professional Learning Environment
The new beauty school that just opened is seriously impressive. From the moment you walk in, you can tell it’s a place that takes professionalism seriously. The facilities are top-notch – super clean, modern, and designed to give students a great learning environment. It feels less like a classroom and more like a high-end salon, which I think is fantastic for aspiring beauty professionals. The instructors seem really knowledgeable and dedicated, and the overall vibe is definitely one of serious training and skill-building. It’s a really promising addition to the area for anyone looking to get into the beauty industry.
- Shawn Lacroix | Google Review
Positive Student Salon Experience at Carlingwood Mall
Great Hair Salon/Beauty School @ Carlingwood Mall. I’ve Now Been Twice & Got My Haircut. Ashley She Cut My Hair For Me Both Times Here At Carlingwood Mall, & Their Prices Are Very Reasonable. They Do Everything, So Call Them & Ask What All They Do Here. I Highly Recommend This Place To Everyone!! & Make Sure To Ask For Ashley Cause She Is Awesome 👌
- Ms. Cheshire Cat | Google Review
3. Westend Academy
Address: 1642 Merivale Rd, Merivale Mall, Nepean
Contact: 613-828-1818 | [email protected]
Hours: Monday, 9 AM – 5 PM | Tuesday-Thursday, 9 AM – 9 PM | Friday, 9 AM – 5 PM
Beauty school isn’t just about learning how to nail a flawless finish. West End Academy also teaches the business side, which is handy if you’re already picturing your name on a salon door.
Students get regular practice with real clients, so you’re not stuck perfecting everything on mannequins. Smaller classes are another plus because instructors can give more direct feedback as you go.
I also like the school’s job-search support, including employer introductions and interview help. That extra push could make the move from classroom to salon chair feel a lot less awkward.
The main downside is location. There’s only one Ottawa campus, so getting to Merivale regularly may be inconvenient if you live across town.
Medical Esthetics Training That Supported Career Success
One of the best schools.I did my medical esthetician diploma from here last year, and I’m very happy with that. I got a really good job. And Miss Samar is one of the best teachers there. She is very knowledgeable and always used to make the learning process more interesting in class.
- Kavneet Chawla | Google Review
Positive Student Training and Client Service Experience
My daughter is enrolled to receive her Professional Medical Esthetician Diploma in July. I have been there on 2 occasions to have services done. Once to get a pedicure, and then I wanted to try a microdermabrasion treatment. Both visits were wonderful! She has put the work in, and they have taught her well!! The prices are incredible! I met the staff and a few of the other students. Amazing crew! Miss Mira is an absolute doll! What an awesome school! From what I experienced, plus her feedback as a student, I recommend them 100%! Well done, Westend Academy😊
- Colleen Weeks | Google Review
4. Gina’s College Of Advanced Aesthetics
Address: 215 Dalhousie St
Contact: (613) 789-7875 | [email protected]
Hours: Monday-Friday, 9 AM – 4.30 PM
If I were looking to level up beyond the basics, Gina’s College would be an easy one to shortlist.
It’s been around since 1979 and offers CIDESCO (Comité International d’Esthétique et de Cosmétologie)-accredited training, which gives its programs some serious industry weight.
I like the hybrid setup too. You can handle theory online, then come in for the practical work that actually builds confidence with real clients.
The student clinic is another big plus if you learn best by doing. Some programs also lean heavily into hands-on training, so you’re not spending the whole course buried in notes.
The catch is that not every program is beginner-friendly. Some advanced options require previous industry experience, so it’s worth checking the entry requirements before enrolling.
Flexible Course Options for Focused Beauty Training
Gina’s College of Advanced Aesthetics is a very good school. You can choose the courses you want, according to your best interests, instead of taking a closed package where you have no immediate interest in some subjects. You can, for example, take a skin care fundamentals program instead of a full aesthetician program. I chose the skin care fundamentals certificate program, and it was excellent. My teacher was very nice and friendly, and I learned a lot from this experience. I definitely intend to come back for more courses!
- Thaisa V M | Google Review
Welcoming and Supportive Microblading Training
Hi guys! My name is Cristina, and I took a Microblading course at Gina’s last November. I encourage anyone interested in taking a course in esthetics to go to Gina’s! The staff is sooo wonderful, helpful, and caring! I felt very comfortable and welcome instantly, and I’m loving what I chose to do!
- Cristina Colucci | Google Review
5. Pure Beauty Clinic & Academy
Address: 258 Dalhousie Street
Contact: (343) 227-6945 | [email protected]
Hours: Tuesday-Friday, 10 AM – 6 PM | Saturday, 10 AM – 5 PM
If brows are your thing, Pure Beauty Clinic & Academy gets straight to the point. Its training focuses on permanent makeup, with courses in nano brows, microblading, and lip blush.
I like that the academy is connected to an active clinic rather than feeling completely separate from the industry. That setup gives the training a more practical, real-world flavour.
The short course format also works well if you want to sharpen one specific skill without signing up for a lengthy diploma. Some programs run for just two or three days, so you can get focused training quickly.
The downside is that course scheduling isn’t always plug-and-play, so you may need to confirm dates directly before enrolling. You may need to call directly, and the condensed schedule could feel intense if you prefer a slower pace.
Detailed Microblading Training With Supportive Instructors
Amazing talent! All the girls are so kind and give you the best service and advice! Got my eyebrows done before Christmas and I have never been so pleased! I also recently took their Microblading training course, and I couldn’t be more impressed. Tessa and Kim are amazing teachers and don’t leave a single thing out! Well worth the money and experience 🙂
- Abby Slack | Google Review
Encouraging Hands-On Training With Student Models
I had the absolute pleasure of being selected as a student model at Pure Beauty Academy for microblading. The attention to detail from the instructors was amazing, and it was great to see such a positive and encouraging environment for the students. My eyebrows look amazing! Trust me, if you have the opportunity to be a student model for one of their training sessions, you will not want to pass it up.
- Sara Grainger | Google Review
