Being a beauty technician can be a lucrative career, but if you’re only starting, it’s only wise to ensure you have the best education, right?

Gathering insights from beauty pros – aka former students now successfully working in the beauty industry – we decided to find the best beauty schools in Montreal. We conducted interviews and did on-site visits to bring this specially curated list for you.

If you want to know where the city’s best beauty gurus learn their tricks, the answer awaits you here! 

How we chose

1. Edith Serei

Location: 6530 Av. Papineau
Contact: +1 514-849-3035

Opening Hours: Monday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Website

Edith Serei’s track record is impressive, with 60 years of experience and 30,000 graduates as of writing. But if we have to choose one standout trait, it’s their flexibility that we want to highlight.

Unlike other schools, which can be limiting when it comes to options, Edith’s offers various options: full-time and part-time, as well as day and evening classes. Even working professionals can enrol for programs according to their best schedule.

We absolutely love how the classes have a nice mix of theory and practice, with the latter being performed with real clients (under instructor supervision). Students can also take their classes at any of their 3 locations, which we find great for accessibility.

For those worried about budget, we find their interest-free course financing valuable. Students can break the tuition into smaller payments until the program is finished.

We just wish responses were timelier for inquiries or questions since their customer service feels a bit inconsistent at times. Other than that, we find the quality of training to be up to par with our standards. 

Prices are hard to beat

“Been here several times and always leave very happy. Students are friendly and do their best and are helped by their instructors. Prices are hard to beat and the quality is excellent. ETA: 11/21 they recently moved to a new location in Rosemont but didn’t mention this on the phone when I made a recent appointment or when they called to confirm. Administrators, please make sure to share this info with your clients to avoid unnecessary travel.”

Vanessa Franco | Google Reviews

Unmatched professionalism 

“Having trained a variety of esthetic teams in multiple spa’s I can honestly say the estheticians who come from this school , have a level of skills & professionalism that’s unmatched. From quality of technique to knowledge of skin & treatments they truly are the Harvard of esthetics across the board !!Any spa owner /director of esthetic services are honored&pleased to have estheticians who come from here.”

Enza Vizzi | Google Reviews 

2. Above Academy

Location: 4020 Rue Saint-Ambroise Local 367
Contact: +1 514-928-7828

Opening Hours: Saturday – Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Website

Above Academy specialises exclusively in nail education, offering both group and private sessions. We liked that their classes only have 10 to 12 students per session, which allows for a more personal experience.

Our team agrees that their training is concise yet intensive. Their 4-day certification program runs over 4 consecutive weeks, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. However, considering the strict schedule, they may not be the most flexible choice.

Additionally, we love that they include a PreEmpt hygiene and sanitation certification, completed online prior to the program. Hygiene is always a crucial aspect of beauty, so this definitely won us over.

Students can even learn more advanced methods in nail care, such as Gel-X and creative nail art. With this knowledge, we think students will be able to market their skills better and earn better in the future. 

Thorough teaching style

“Honestly this class was amazing! The teachers are so thorough and explain everything perfectly. They help each student in such a hands on way and I loved every part from the practical training to the marketing aspect. They really do an amazing job at encouraging you, guiding you and making you know that the sky is the limit!”

Shell | Google Reviews 

One of the best decisions 

“Signing up for this class was one of the best decisions I could’ve taken. I can’t wait to see what’s waiting for my in the future ! For once, I’m doing something for myself and honestly have zero regrets. From Cynthia, Sofia to Franz that are always here to answer questions and help out. Without forgetting all the laughters we all shared together.”

Jennyfer Tran | Google Reviews 

3. Academy Hairdressing Hilda

Location: 4621 Rue de Salaberry
Contact: +1 514-507-1118

Opening Hours: Monday – Saturday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Website

The range of the programs at Academy Hairdressing is something we find compelling for those looking for long-term careers in beauty. Training courses span 6 to 8 months and are designed to help students master various hair skills.

Classes are offered in both English and French too, making it accessible to diverse students.

As for the classes, we find that they’re small enough to allow individualised attention. There’s also a starter kit for each one, so learners don’t have to worry about tools and equipment.

What impressed us the most, though, was the ongoing support they provided after graduation. The school helps with job placement opportunities, with many students confirming that they were to score clients through them.

Beyond this, little touches like lifetime discounted services at the salon just make things better for potential learners.

However, we do have to say there’s a bit of inconsistency in their lessons. A few students we talked to said some instructors aren’t updated with modern techniques. 

Worth the money

“Worth the money, the time so much better then any other school you’re not always stuck writing the lessons you actually practice it and they make you take clients in the first few week giving you experience. Its perfect, short and the teacher really takes time for you and your questions. Once you get out you are ready for the reality of the job!”

Evelyne Dubé | Google Reviews 

Enjoyable classes

“Graduated from the Hilda hairdressing academy, I was well trained, I really enjoyed my classes and today I have my own business. A big thank you to my teachers, especially Clement (makeup module). For people who want to train, I highly recommend it. Thank you Madame Tania for your big heart “

Amito Kodjoakou | Google Reviews

4. Belle Beauty Academy

Location: 6140 Rue Sherbrooke O
Contact: +1 514-708-2681

Opening Hours: Monday – Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Wednesday, Friday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM | Thursday: 2:00 PM – 7:30 PM | Saturday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Website

What sets Belle Beauty Academy apart is its accessibility – no previous experience is required to enrol, so it’s a solid choice for absolute beginners.’

Courses are also practical and client-focused, which is definitely what we’re looking for.

In particular, we liked their Perfection Course, which allows students to fine-tune either lash or brow techniques (or both). It’s more specific to the hands-on application of skills, so we find it compelling for those who want a career out of this.

What’s even more interesting is that they have a mini training on social media and marketing. They’re the only ones that offer this as part of the course, making it helpful for learners who want to build a clientele after.

Just take note that certification here is private, meaning you might have a hard time selling it as a credential for more structured work. But if it’s practical skills you want to improve, they’re definitely a good choice.

Super detailed experience 

“I recently completed a brow lamination course with Isabelle and was super happy with my experience! My kit had everything I needed to start working on clients & the course manual was super detailed! She is an amazing teacher & brow artist – you’ll love her!”

Maria | Google Reviews

Recommended mentor

“I got multiple certifications with her and her partner Amani & she’s a very good mentor. She’s patient, sweet, explains very well and make sure we understand. When it comes to practical sessions, she will show you the easiest way & every tricks that you should know as a beginner. Thank you for this beautiful experience. I recommend her as ur mentor if you are insisting on learning a new hobby.”

Mulan | Google Reviews

5. Institute Marie Celine

Location: 6321 Rue St-Hubert
Contact: +1 514-755-0244

Opening Hours: Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM | Saturday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Website

Institute Marie Celine is relatively small in terms of track record when compared to others in this list, but their specialisation sets them apart. 

The school focuses on medical aesthetics: permanent makeup, scar camouflage, and medical tattooing. The selling point here is the instruction, considering the instructor is trained in both the US and Europe for the practice.

What earned our favour most, though, is the institute’s post-training support that’s coupled with access to the institute’s network of professionals. 

Additionally, the certifications are recognised by major insurance companies and professional associations. This weighs a lot when it comes to credibility and employability.  

However, since the focus is more specialised, the place can be a bit more stringent in its application process. The fees are also relatively higher than general beauty training. 

Enjoyable experience 

“I really enjoyed my experience at Marie-Céline! As a practical nurse, I have a busy schedule and she gave me training adapted to my situation!!! Really thank you!”

Patricia’s hobbies | Google Reviews

Extraordinary teaching 

“What more can I say than 5 stars! Extraordinary teaching and a human approach!”

Marie-Claude Marsh | Google Reviews