Frequently Asked Questions

Empty modern hair salon with black chairs, mirrors, and shelves holding hair products, with a light wood floor and white walls.

  • Our flexible, part-time programs are designed to fit your busy lifestyle. Cosmetology classes meet on Mondays and Tuesdays from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM with 8 hours of online coursework each week, while Barbering classes meet on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM with 8 hours of online coursework per week, allowing students to balance work, family, and their education while preparing for a successful career in the beauty industry.

  • Getting started is simple. Give us a call or submit your application and we’ll walk you through the next steps and answer any questions along the way.

  • Charlottesville Academy of Barbering & Cosmetology was built on the proven foundation of the Charlottesville Institute of Modern Esthetics (CHIME), one of Central Virginia's most recognized beauty education institutions. CHIME has earned a reputation for exceptional student support, hands-on education, and graduate success, helping aspiring beauty professionals launch rewarding careers throughout Virginia.

    We didn't create another beauty school. We built an academy that raises the standard.

    Our programs combine flexible scheduling, hands-on training, modern teaching methods, and real-world business education to prepare students for far more than state licensure. Students learn from experienced industry professionals in a supportive environment that emphasizes confidence, professionalism, and career readiness from day one.

  • Hybrid learning combines the best of both worlds by blending hands-on, in-person instruction with flexible online coursework. Students attend scheduled classroom sessions to develop practical skills and complete a portion of their theory education online each week through the Milady CIMA Digital Learning Platform. This flexible format allows students to balance work, family, and other responsibilities while receiving the comprehensive training needed to prepare for state licensure and a successful career in the beauty industry.

  • We believe a quality education should be an investment in your future, not a barrier to achieving your goals. Tuition varies by program, and we regularly offer promotional pricing, scholarships, and flexible payment plans. Contact our Admissions Team for the most up-to-date tuition information and personalized financing options.

  • No, we do not currently participate in federal financial aid (FAFSA). However, we are committed to making your education affordable by offering competitive tuition, promotional pricing, scholarships, and flexible payment plan options.

  • We believe investing in your future should be simple and flexible. Students can choose to pay tuition in full, in four equal payments, or in two payments. We also offer promotional pricing and scholarship opportunities throughout the year.