Top 66 Makeup Schools Worldwide | 2025 Update

Description: Blanche Macdonald Centre offers a comprehensive makeup program covering various aspects of the industry, from TV and film to special effects. They have a 1-year makeup program suitable for international students.

Website: Blanche Macdonald Centre

Description: Vancouver Film School offers a one-year study program for aspiring makeup designers who wish to work on blockbuster productions. Their alumni are sought-after professionals in the industry, and they provide industry connections.

Website: Vancouver Film School

Description: CMU College of Makeup Art & Design is committed to diversity and inclusivity in makeup education. They offer various courses for aspiring makeup artists.

Website: CMU College of Makeup Art & Design

Video: CMU College of Makeup Art & Design Video

Description: Founded by Vanessa Mills, VMMA offers a range of makeup courses. Vanessa Mills is an experienced makeup artist known for her work with celebrities, runway, fashion, and editorial.

Website: VMMA Makeup Artistry School & Studio

Description: John Casablancas Institute is a well-known makeup school offering training in various aspects of makeup artistry.

Website: John Casablancas Institute

Description: EI School of Professional Makeup offers a comprehensive one-year program covering various makeup techniques, including beauty, theatrical, high fashion, and more.

Website: EI School of Professional Makeup

Description: CMC Makeup School offers a range of makeup courses, including basic and advanced options. They also focus on career and marketing education.

Website: CMC Makeup School

Video: CMC Makeup School Video

Description: Joe Blasco Makeup Center is a well-known name in the beauty industry, offering opportunities to learn from experienced professionals.

Website: Joe Blasco Makeup Center

Video: Joe Blasco Makeup Center Video

Description: Cosmix School of Makeup Artistry in Lauderdale, Florida, offers comprehensive makeup courses covering a range of topics. Students can choose from various courses, including Airbrushing, Character Makeup, and Special FX Prosthetics Makeup.

Website: Cosmix School of Makeup Artistry

Video: Cosmix School of Makeup Artistry Video

Description: The School of Glamology empowers students to excel in the beauty industry, offering education in flawless makeup application and running a beauty business.

Website: School of Glamology

Description: L Makeup Institute provides dynamic makeup education to aspiring artists in Las Vegas.

Website: L Makeup Institute

Description: Studio Crush School of Makeup in Atlanta offers a comprehensive curriculum guided by industry professionals.

Website: Studio Crush School of Makeup

Description: New York Makeup School offers education in makeup artistry in the vibrant city of New York.

Website: New York Makeup School

Website: Christine Valmy International School of Esthetics

Website: VAMP

Instagram: @vampfx

Description: Makeup Designory (MUD) offers a comprehensive curriculum with courses ranging from 3-6 weeks and programs lasting 12-24 weeks. Hands-on practical learning is emphasized, and students can find MUD Studios or Partner Schools worldwide.

Website: Makeup Designory (MUD)

Video: Makeup Designory (MUD) Video

Website: The Art of Makeup School 

Website: Tom Savini’s Special Makeup Effects Program

Video: Tom Savini’s Special Makeup Effects Program Video

Website: Michael Vincent Academy 

Video: Michael Vincent Academy 

Description: Cinema Makeup School in LA is known for its prestigious instructors, including Ve Neil, a three-time Oscar Winner. The school offers diploma programs, individual makeup classes, workshops, and seminars. Special effects and digital FX classes are also available.

Website: Cinema Makeup School

Video: Cinema Makeup School Video

Website: BOCA BEAUTY ACADEMY

Video: BOCA BEAUTY ACADEMY Video

Description: Westmore Academy of Cosmetic Arts offers efficient workshops that cover various aspects of makeup artistry. Certification is awarded upon completion of eight workshops.

Website: Westmore Academy of Cosmetic Arts

Video: Westmore Academy of Cosmetic Arts Video

Description: Chic Studios offers a range of courses from beginner to professional levels. The focus is on bridal beauty and business for beginners and fashion and runway makeup for advanced levels.

Website: Chic Studios Makeup School

Video: Chic Studios Makeup School Video

Website: Bosso Beverly Hills Makeup Academy

Description: FIT’s Beauty Industry Essentials online program provides an in-depth introduction to critical aspects of the beauty and cosmetics industries. The program equips students with the tools and skills needed for a successful career in the beauty industry.

Website: Fashion Institute of Technology

Video: Fashion Institute of Technology Video

Makeup Schools in Europe

Description: The Makeup Institute in Stockholm offers courses for both beginners and working makeup artists. They accept international students and even organize accommodation for non-locals. Upon course completion, students receive a portfolio with professional shots of their work, valuable for job interviews.

Website: Makeup Institute

Instagram: @makeupinstitute

Website: Dragan Vurdelja Makeup School

Description: Yarin Shahaf Beauty School in Tel Aviv offers a comprehensive exploration of makeup techniques and trends. Students gain technical mastery and a profound understanding of how makeup can reflect the vibrant cultural tapestry of Tel Aviv.

Website: Yarin Shahaf Beauty School

Description: London College of Fashion’s makeup courses have produced graduates who worked on titles like Harry Potter and War Horse. The school’s well-established reputation and highly qualified instructors provide a variety of skills to students interested in design and performing arts.

Website: London College of Fashion

Video: London College of Fashion Video

Description: The Makeup For Ever Academy in Paris offers a range of makeup techniques, blending timeless methods with the latest trends. Students are guided by top-notch instructors to develop skills and discover makeup’s powerful self-expression. The school’s location in Paris adds an extra layer of inspiration from the city’s art and culture. Graduates gain access to the Makeup Academy For Ever Tribe and work with Makeup Forever products.

Website: The Makeup For Ever Academy

Video: The Makeup For Ever Academy Video

Description: Delamar Academy in London specializes in film and TV makeup. Their program covers classic techniques to the latest trends, led by experienced professionals. Students gain hands-on training and insights into the entertainment industry.

Website: Delamar Academy

Description: Greasepaint Makeup Academy specializes in theatrical and media makeup. Their program covers basic techniques to advanced special effects and prosthetics. Experienced teachers help students bring characters to life.

Website: Greasepaint Makeup Academy

Description: The Academy of Freelance Makeup (AOF) is renowned worldwide and offers various courses. Graduates have working opportunities in global cities, magazines, film festivals, and fashion weeks. AOF provides online training with personal mentors.

Website: Academy of Freelance Makeup

Video: Academy of Freelance Makeup Video

Description: FACE Academy specializes in dermal procedures such as fillers, skin peels, and micro-needling. Students learn from professionals who run their own aesthetic and cosmetic clinics and have trained in London’s Harley Street with leading Doctors in the Aesthetics industry.

Website: About FACE Academy

Makeup Brush Bag

Christine Blundell Make-up Academy – London, UK Description: Christine Blundell, an Oscar & BAFTA-winning makeup designer, offers an intensive 4-month hair & makeup course with a focus on film. Students get to work with Christine on set for valuable experience.

Instagram: @cbma_academy

Website: KLMA Makeup Academy 

Video: UAL Makeup Program Video

Description: The BA Make-up and Hair program at UAL provides strong industry links, with opportunities for work experience at studios and theatres like The English National Opera and Pinewood Studios. 

Website: University of the Arts London – London, UK

Description: The Pop Makeup Academy in Rome offers professional makeup artist training to students of all levels. Originally established in Los Angeles, California, by Margaret Kimura, the academy provides makeup artists to some of the biggest Hollywood celebrities, ensuring courses that combine technology and creativity.

Website: Pop Makeup Academy

Video: Pop Makeup Academy Video

Description: Update Fashion Academy’s “Master Beauty Consulting” course allows students to spend 6 months in Italy while learning about the beauty industry, fashion, cosmetics, and overall well-being.

Website: Update Fashion Academy

Video: Update Fashion Academy Video

Description: Atelier Maquillage Paris aims to inspire new makeup artists and raise awareness of simple and accessible beauty. They offer individual or group training courses, followed by certification, in their showroom in Paris.

Website: Atelier de Maquillage

Description: Hasso Von Hugo’s school offers professional makeup training with instructors’ extensive experience in various areas. The program includes 1,512 supervised practice lessons over three years, making it a comprehensive learning experience.

Website: Makeup School of Germany 

Video: Hasso Von Hugo Video

Description: Stick Art Studio, one of Spain’s oldest artistic makeup academies, provides comprehensive training with highly reputed teachers. The training focuses on a global vision of the makeup profession.

Website: Stick Art Studio 

Video: Stick Art Studio Video

Website: Elite Makeup School 

Makeup Brush

Website: The Makeup Studio 

Website: Glauca Rossi 

Website: Brushstroke Makeup and Hair Academy 

Description: The London School of Beauty and Make-up was founded by Mostyn Barnard, an industry veteran with over thirty years of experience. The school is dedicated to educating students in the makeup application and its related industries.

Website: The London School of Beauty & Makeup 

Video: The London School of Beauty and Make-up Video

Makeup Practice Face Board 3D Realistic Pad

Makeup Schools in Asia

Description: Toni Malt Makeup School, led by internationally recognized editorial makeup artist Toni Malt, offers master courses for aspiring editorial makeup artists. With her work featured in prestigious magazines, students can learn from a true expert.

Website: Toni Malt Makeup School

Instagram: @tonimaltacademy

Description: The Makeup Atelier Paris Academy in Dubai blends Parisian elegance with Middle Eastern allure. The academy offers a curriculum that combines timeless techniques with contemporary trends, enabling students to master the craft with finesse.

Website: Makeup Atelier Paris Academy

Description: The House of GlamDolls in Dubai promises to elevate skills and unleash creative potential. The academy offers a comprehensive toolkit, blending luxurious glamour with cutting-edge techniques to thrive in the competitive beauty industry.

Website: House of GlamDolls

Hand Makeup Mixing Palette

Description: SMA is a leading makeup school with locations in Bangkok, Delhi, Pune, and Yangon. They offer professional programs for future makeup artists, hairstylists, and beauticians, covering various aspects of the makeup industry.

Website: SMA Makeup Academy

Video: SMA Makeup Academy Video

Description: The Bangkok Makeup School offers a captivating blend of traditional Thai aesthetics and cutting-edge makeup techniques. Students learn the art of makeup application while embracing Thai beauty heritage.

Website: Bangkok Makeup School

Description: SMA Makeup Academy, with a location in Delhi, offers professional programs for makeup artists, hairstylists, and beauticians. They cover various aspects of the makeup industry with international top-notch makeup artists as instructors.

Website: SMA Makeup Academy

Description: Inspired by the iconic Lakmé brand, the academy offers a transformative platform for aspiring makeup artists to immerse themselves in the vibrant tapestry of Indian aesthetics. The curriculum embraces diverse techniques and cultural influences.

Website: Lakmé Academy

Description: Facebar Studio Makeup Academy in Kuala Lumpur helps students become skilled makeup artists. The academy’s experienced teachers guide students through various makeup styles, from everyday to glamorous, with influences from Malaysia’s diverse culture.

Website: Facebar Studio Makeup Academy

Rolling Makeup Train Case

Makeup Schools in Australia

Description: The Australian College of Make-up and Special Effects (ACMUSE) has been providing industry training for 40 years. It aims to support the entertainment industry by producing expertly trained graduates suitable for immediate contracts in the industry.

Website: Australia College of Makeup and Special Effects 

Instagram: @acmuse_

Description: The Napoleon Perdis Makeup Academy in Sydney offers a creative and innovative environment for beauty education. Founded by renowned makeup artist Napoleon Perdis, the academy provides aspiring makeup artists with the opportunity to learn from industry experts. The curriculum blends classic techniques with cutting-edge trends.

Website: Napoleon Perdis Makeup Academy

Description: Huxley School of Makeup in Gold Coast, Australia, is recognized nationally and internationally with international accreditation. The school’s intense application process ensures that students share a passion for makeup and drive. In addition to makeup, hair styling, and special effects training, they offer online courses for flexible learning. 

Website: Huxley School of Makeup 

Makeup Schools in South America

Description: Escola Madre in São Paulo, Brazil, offers a vibrant blend of Brazilian culture and cutting-edge beauty education. With a dynamic curriculum and expert faculty, the school empowers students to master makeup application techniques ranging from classic to avant-garde. Located in the heart of São Paulo, Escola Madre fosters a new generation of makeup artists who combine tradition and innovation in their craft.

Website: Escola Madre

Makeup Schools in Africa

Description: Nestled in the vibrant city of Johannesburg, South Africa, Face-to-Face Beauty & Makeup Design School emerges as a nurturing haven for budding beauty enthusiasts. With its unwavering commitment to excellence, the school offers a transformative learning experience, equipping students with a diverse array of makeup techniques and industry insights.

The dynamic curriculum, guided by seasoned professionals, not only hones technical skills but also cultivates a deep understanding of the ever-evolving beauty landscape. As students explore the art of makeup within the rich tapestry of South African culture, they gain the confidence to embark on their creative journeys, poised to leave an indelible mark on the global makeup scene. 

Website: Face-to-Face Beauty & Makeup Design School

Online Makeup Schools:

Description: Gorton Studio offers a world-renowned 7-week course that provides solid fundamentals in the prosthetics sphere. Neil Gorton’s graduates have worked on films like Maleficent, World War Z, and Hellboy 3. The studio offers standard, bespoke, and online courses.

Website: Gorton Studio

Video: Gorton Studio Video

Description: QC Makeup Academy offers an exceptional online platform for aspiring makeup artists, providing a comprehensive and flexible education that fits seamlessly into your lifestyle. With a curriculum developed by industry experts, you’ll gain a deep understanding of makeup techniques, products, and trends, honing your skills through practical assignments and personalized feedback.

Whether you’re a beginner or looking to enhance your existing knowledge, QC Makeup Academy equips you with the tools to excel in the dynamic world of beauty. As you progress through the program, you’ll build a portfolio of diverse looks that showcase your creativity and proficiency.

Website: QC Makeup Academy

Description: The Institute of Makeup Artistry offers an online makeup course that allows you to study at home. Regardless of your location or lifestyle, this course provides flexibility. The program includes 12 knowledge and skill-based assignments, along with 24+ hours of video content.

Your personal tutor will provide feedback on your homework, video, and image submissions. The curriculum covers Bridal, Fashion, Film & TV, and Theater makeup. The instructor, Rachel Dal Santo, boasts experience in popular movie titles such as “The Matrix” and “Mao’s Last Dancer.”

Website: The Institute of Makeup Artistry

Description: Vizio Makeup Academy offers online makeup education options for individuals who can’t travel. The academy ensures quality makeup education through its online programs, catering to those eager to learn remotely.

Website: Vizio Makeup Academy

Description: Bombshell Beauty Academy provides online courses in makeup, lash, brow, and beauty therapy training. Their online courses allow you to explore different aspects of the beauty world, making it convenient and accessible for those looking to learn from home.

Website: Bombshell Beauty Academy

Begin Your Journey in the World of Makeup Artistry Today!

In a world where beauty and self-expression have transcended conventional boundaries, makeup schools continue to serve as the creative hubs where aspiring artists shape their dreams.

From the bustling streets of Hollywood to the vibrant neighborhoods of Dubai, these institutions foster not just the technical prowess of makeup artistry, but also a deep understanding of individuality and artistic vision.

As we celebrate the kaleidoscope of global cultures and aesthetics, these 75 makeup schools represent a testament to the power of makeup as a universal language of art, transformation, and empowerment.

Whether you’re drawn to the enchanting lights of Los Angeles or the ancient charm of Athens, these schools stand ready to illuminate the path toward a world where every brushstroke tells a unique story, every shade embodies an emotion, and every artist finds their extraordinary voice in the realm of makeup artistry.

FAQs

What is the Average Cost of Going to a Makeup Artistry School?

The cost of attending a makeup artistry school can vary widely depending on factors such as the school’s reputation, location, duration of the program, and the depth of the curriculum. On average, the cost can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.

Here’s a rough breakdown of the potential costs:

1. Certificate or Short Courses: Short courses or certificate programs that last a few weeks to a few months can cost anywhere from $300 to $2,000.
2. Diploma or Comprehensive Programs: Longer and more comprehensive programs, ranging from a few months to a year, can cost between $2,000 to $10,000 or more.
3. Specialized and High-End Schools: Some renowned makeup artistry schools or those located in high-demand areas might have tuition fees in the range of $10,000 to $20,000 or even higher.
4. Private Lessons and Workshops: Private makeup lessons or workshops with well-known makeup artists can also vary greatly in price, starting from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.
5. Materials and Kit: Apart from tuition, you may need to budget for makeup kits and materials. This can cost a few hundred to a thousand dollars, depending on the quality and quantity of products required.
6. Additional Costs: Don’t forget to account for other expenses such as textbooks, uniform or clothing requirements, transportation, and any accommodation costs if you’re attending a school away from home.

How Long Does it Take to Become a Makeup Artist?

The time it takes to become a makeup artist can vary widely based on factors such as the type of makeup artistry you want to specialize in, the level of education and training you pursue, and your individual career goals. Here’s a general breakdown of the timeline:

1. Short Courses or Workshops (1 day to a few weeks): If you’re interested in basic makeup techniques or specific skills, you can start with short courses or workshops.
2. Certificate or Diploma Programs (3 months to 1 year): Many makeup schools offer certificate or diploma programs that provide comprehensive training. These programs can last anywhere from three months to a year. They cover a range of techniques and may include beauty, bridal, fashion, special effects, and more.
3. Associate’s Degree (2 years): Some community colleges or vocational schools offer associate’s degree programs in cosmetology or esthetics, which can include makeup artistry training. These programs typically last around two years and cover a broader range of beauty-related topics.
4. Bachelor’s Degree (4 years): While not as common, some universities offer bachelor’s degree programs in areas like makeup artistry, film and TV makeup, or theater makeup. These programs may take around four years to complete and provide a more in-depth education.
5. Apprenticeships and On-the-Job Training: Some makeup artists learn through hands-on experience by working as apprentices or assistants to established professionals.
6. Self-Taught and Online Learning: If you’re learning makeup artistry on your own through online tutorials, books, and practice, the timeline can be flexible and self-paced.