How much is a nail course?

So, you’ve decided you want to become a nail technician? You go Glen Coco! Now it’s time to iron out the details, including where and how you want to train and how much this will cost. Similarly, to the training itself, nail technician course costs can vary depending on course contents, the location, the qualification you receive at the end and a whole host of other factors.

If you’re weighing up the costs of training to become a nail technician, you’re in the right place. This blog will give you a deeper insight into nail tech course costs in the UK, so you have all the tools to make the right decision.

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The different types of nail course and their costs

Firstly, let’s go back to basics. What kind of nail technician do you want to become? Do you want to specialise in BIAB nails? Are you keen to become a nail art pro? Do you want to be able to do it all, no matter what your client asks for? Once you have this answer, this will give you an insight into how much your nail technician course will cost.

In most cases, a standard manicure and pedicure course will be more affordable than, let’s say, a Gel-X extension course for example. This is due to the skills required and the complexity of the training. We’re going to break each of the different options down so you can see how and why nail course costs vary.

How much is a gel nail course?

You can choose from a whole host of gel nail courses, but these generally fall into two categories, online gel nail courses and in-person gel nail training.

Online gel courses

Of the two options, an online gel course is often more affordable than in-person training because you can complete the course in your own time and there usually isn’t any practical training involved. Online course costs can vary significantly, some of which can cost as little as £14. But, if you want to ensure you’re getting reliable, practical training it’s essential that you choose the right provider.

For example, an online gel course from Glitterbels, a globally-recognised nail supply brand, costs a minimum of £125. Whereas, a CPD-accredited Wowcher course can cost as little as £14! You’ll also be able to find more specialised courses, like online BIAB courses, if you want to further your skillset in a specific area. When it comes to making a cost-effective choice, don’t forget to consider:

• The qualification you’ll receive at the end (Is this internationally recognised? Can you work in a nail salon with this qualification?)
• Are high-quality nail supplies included?
• Is the provider reliable? (Is the website legitimate? Do you get support from real nail technicians? Is the brand well-recognised?)

After looking at the offerings of several providers, we found that a high-quality online nail course costs around £100 without a nail kit included.

If you’re a student looking to bulk up your beginner nail kit without spending too much, you can also get a 6-month free trial for Amazon Student. There’s no commitment and you can cancel at the end of the trial if you don’t get much use out of it!

Practical gel nail courses

This is a great option for those who want the additional support of a qualified nail technician and hands-on training. Brands like The Gel Bottle offer their own hands-on training to use with their gel systems. Alternatively, you can choose a reliable local beauty school or college to complete your training with.

These courses can cost anywhere from £200+ for high-quality in-person training.

How much is an acrylic nail course?

Acrylic nail courses are usually more expensive than gel courses as the application and techniques involved are more technical. You can also get combined gel and acrylic courses if you want to train in both areas. Similarly to gel courses, acrylic nail courses can vary significantly depending on whether you want to train in-person or online, and depending on the company providing the training.

For example, Wonderland Training offers an intensive 3-day beginner acrylic enhancements course for £775. Whereas, Glitterbels offers online training for £245 (without acrylic nail supplies included).

Looking at an array of options online, you can expect to pay at least £200 for a 1-day acrylic nail course (in-person training). Alternatively, a combined gel and acrylic nail course typically costs £400+ for high-quality, guided training.

How much is a nail technology course?

Want to work in a salon or learn everything about nails at once? It may be best to enrol in a nail technology course and get a diploma. These courses are usually taught in colleges, universities or dedicated beauty schools and can give you all the hands-on experience to work in a nail salon or set up your own nail business.

If you’re applying through a college, you may be able to enrol on the course for free by applying directly through the institution. On the other hand, fees usually cost upwards of £1000+ (without nail supplies) for Level 2 Nail Technology courses and £3000+ for Level 3, whereby you get a diploma/NVQ/SVQ at the end. These courses are usually completed over several months and have formal assessments at the end for you to qualify.

Is it worth it?

Yes! By paying for the right nail technician course you’re investing in your future. Once you’ve secured the skills and qualifications, your earning potential knows no bounds…

This Youtube video also offers great insight into the costs of becoming a nail technician from a real-life nail superstar!

Don’t forget to read our article on the qualifications needed to become a nail technician to get an even deeper insight into the training needed to start your career.