USE CODE: Glue25 for 25% OFF | FREE SHIPPING: USA ORDERS $50+ | INTERNATIONAL ORDERS $150+ (USD).

0

Your Bag is Empty

Cosmetology School – Advice on How to Ace the State Board Exam

Studying-Cosmetology-School

3 min read

Posted by Christy Espino on July 17, 2022

It's another month and another entry in my Cosmetology School Diaries. I am excited to tell you all that I have already pre-applied for my state board exam, and I'm both excited and nervous. On the one hand, pre-applying for my test brings me great joy because it reminds me that I am getting closer to the end of my schooling. However, I now feel like the pressure is on to do the best I can in school so I can be fully prepared for my exam.

What to Expect in the State Board Exam

I will be tested on all of the procedures I have learned in school so far, like permanent waving, hair cutting, hair coloring, etc. Although I now have knowledge in these subjects, the part I'm most concerned about involves the attention-to-detail that comes in the exam. Any little thing you do wrong could determine whether you pass or fail--there is little room for error. So for people like me, who may be a little forgetful, it is best to prepare for these things ahead of time.

1. Arrive at your exam on the RIGHT date at the RIGHT time

One of the first steps in being fully prepared is to make sure you write down when the day and time of your test is as soon as you receive it. Talking to my fellow classmates, I heard that you must arrive very early in the morning, and if you are late, you won't be admitted entry to your exam. With this in mind, it is crucial that you leave your house with adequate time to avoid any traffic or obstacles that may occur.

2. Order your state board kit ahead of time

Another thing you can do is order your state board kit before the test. Your kit should include everything you need to perform the practical portion of your exam. Ordering it ahead of time will give you a chance to make sure that you have all your supplies, and even let you put in extra supplies that you may need. If you're like me and tend to drop your supplies often, then you definitely need to pack extra combs, clips, and even an extra pair of shears.

3. Study cosmetology theory intensively to ace the writing portion

Lastly, be prepared for the written part of the exam by studying all of the theory. You can do that by reviewing your notes, flashcards, and textbook. Half of your overall grade comes from this part so you need to make sure your book smarts are just as sharp as your ability to perform the procedures.

Lastly, Pass Onto Better Opportunities

As much as you need to prepare to get your cosmetology license, it is completely worth it. There is nothing better than knowing that you worked so hard for something and you finally earned it. It is also rewarding to think that once you are licensed, you can go and launch your career. I'm looking out into the future and am excited about all the opportunities that will be offered after I have passed my test. If you're reading this and you're preparing to take your state board exam, I wish you the best of luck! Share this with anyone that needs some advice on how to ace their state board exam for cosmetology school!

Christy Espino

Christy Espino

Born-and-raised in Los Angeles, Christy Espino has always pursued her artistic ambitions in the arts. Currently in cosmetology school, Christy also has a bachelor's degree in screenwriting as well as a background in permanent makeup. She has a great love for writing and all things beauty-related, so there is no doubt contributing to the Glad Lash Blog comes naturally to her. Her style is witty and educational and we are pleased to share her fresh, new expertise and insight. Christy hopes to inspire men and women everywhere to explore the things they are passionate about and build a fulfilling career in beauty.


Leave a comment

Comments will be approved before showing up.


Also in The Lash & Brow Expert Blog

Lash Mapping 101
Lash Mapping 101: Because Beautiful Lashes Aren't Copied. They're Designed.

by Dixie Gladbach September 02, 2026 6 min read

Lash mapping is the blueprint for a custom set. Learn Cat Eye, Doll Eye, and Open Eye maps, plus a beginner tutorial and curl pairings from GladGirl.
Lash Extension Allergies vs. Irritation: How to Tell the Difference
Lash Extension Allergies vs. Irritation: How to Tell the Difference

by GladGirl Team August 29, 2026 3 min read

Getting lash extensions should feel like a luxury, but dealing with mysterious redness, itching, or swelling can quickly turn the experience stressful.

How to Build a Lash Menu:
How to Build a Lash Menu: Pricing Structures, Service Tiers & Add-Ons That Sell

by GladGirl Team August 26, 2026 3 min read