Checkout the Cosmetology Courses and Universities in Saudi Arabia....
Apr 03, 2025 10:41:18
Overview:
PNU is the largest women's university in the world and offers health sciences, beauty, and wellness programs. They have specific programs related to dermatology, skincare, and wellness sciences, some of which align with cosmetology disciplines.
Courses Offered:
Bachelor of Science in Dermatology Nursing
Short Diplomas in Skincare and Beauty
Cosmetic Dermatology (postgraduate tracks under health sciences)
Tuition Fees:
Approx. SAR 30,000–40,000 per year (USD $8,000–$11,000) for international students
Intake:
Main intake in September (Fall semester)
Occasional Spring intake (February), subject to program
Ranking:
National Rank: Top 10 in Saudi Arabia
QS Arab Region: Ranked within top 50 universities
Overview:
Offers vocational training across Saudi Arabia in partnership with international institutions, including beauty, hair styling, and cosmetology training. These are more diploma/certificate-focused.
Courses Offered:
Diploma in Beauty and Hair Styling
Certificate in Cosmetology
Nail Art and Makeup Specializations
Tuition Fees:
Low cost: approx. SAR 5,000–15,000 per program (USD $1,300–$4,000)
Some programs are government subsidized
Intake:
Twice a year: January and August
Ranking:
Not ranked academically (vocational sector), but recognized by the Saudi Ministry of Education and International Vocational Agencies
Overview:
A private institution offering specialized diplomas and certifications in cosmetology, beauty therapy, and makeup artistry. Popular among both local and international students.
Courses Offered:
Diploma in Cosmetology
Hair Styling & Coloring Techniques
Makeup Artistry (Beginner to Professional Levels)
Skin Therapy and Facial Aesthetics
Tuition Fees:
Diploma: SAR 18,000–30,000 (USD $4,800–$8,000)
Short courses: SAR 3,000–8,000
Intake:
Rolling admissions – Multiple intakes per year (every 3–4 months)
Ranking:
Not university-ranked but accredited locally
Overview:
Provides international-level vocational programs for women, including beauty, wellness, and hospitality. They follow an international curriculum tailored for the Saudi market.
Courses Offered:
Diploma in Beauty and Skincare
Certificate in Spa and Wellness Management
Hair and Makeup Application
Tuition Fees:
SAR 12,000–20,000 per year (USD $3,200–$5,300)
Intake:
Fall (September) and Spring (January)
Ranking:
Affiliated with international accreditation bodies; not university-ranked
Overview:
Private college offering degrees and diplomas in fashion, beauty, and design. Their programs bridge creative arts with applied cosmetology.
Courses Offered:
Bachelor in Beauty and Fashion Management
Diploma in Professional Makeup
Certificate in Bridal Styling and Hair Artistry
Tuition Fees:
SAR 35,000–50,000 per year (USD $9,300–$13,000)
Intake:
September and January
Ranking:
Not widely ranked; regionally respected among creative arts institutions
Offered At:
Beauty & Art Institute (Riyadh / Jeddah)
TVTC Colleges of Excellence (various cities)
International Technical Female College – Makkah
Duration:
1 to 2 years (full-time)
Subjects Covered:
Skin Therapy
Hair Styling & Coloring
Makeup Artistry
Salon Management
Hygiene & Safety in Beauty Practice
Language of Instruction:
Arabic or English (depends on institute)
Some private colleges offer English-taught programs, ideal for Indian students
Tuition Fees:
SAR 15,000 – 30,000 (3.3 – 6.6 lakh approx.)
Some vocational colleges are subsidized or offer discounts for international students
Offered At:
Private beauty academies (e.g., L’Oreal-affiliated centers, Glow Academy)
Beauty & Art Institute
Jeddah International College
Duration:
3 weeks to 6 months
Popular Courses:
Bridal Makeup Artistry
Nail Art & Extension
Advanced Hair Design
Spa & Wellness Therapy
Eyebrow Shaping / Lash Extension
Tuition Fees:
SAR 2,500 – 8,000 (55,000 – 1.75 lakh)
Certification:
Locally recognized or partnered with international beauty boards (some have CIDESCO or ITEC alignment)
Offered At:
Jeddah International College
Duration:
4 years
Subjects Covered:
Beauty Industry Marketing
Makeup Science
Fashion Styling
Aesthetics and Cosmetic Technology
Tuition Fees:
SAR 35,000 – 50,000 per year (7.5 – 11 lakh)
Scholarships may be available for high-performing international students
Language:
English
Offered At:
Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University (PNU)
King Saud University (through postgraduate health programs)
Duration:
1–2 years (Postgraduate Diploma or Certification)
Eligibility:
Medical or nursing degree background required (MBBS, BSc Nursing)
Tuition Fees:
SAR 30,000 – 50,000 per year (6.6 – 11 lakh)
High school diploma / 12th-grade certificate (for diplomas or undergrad)
Bachelor's degree (for postgraduate or cosmetic dermatology programs)
English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL may be required for English programs)
Valid passport and student visa (institutions typically assist in processing)
Health clearance and vaccination record
Most cosmetology institutions help with visa processing
Cost of living in cities like Riyadh and Jeddah:
SAR 1,500–2,500/month (33,000 – 55,000) for modest living
Indian students find strong communities in major Saudi cities
Female-only campuses are common for beauty programs
Program: Diploma in Cosmetology
Duration: 12–18 months
Subjects:
Haircutting & Hair Color Techniques
Skin & Facial Treatments
Makeup Artistry (Day, Evening, Bridal)
Nail Art & Design
Salon Hygiene and Client Care
Tuition Fees:
SAR 18,000 – 30,000
(Approx. 4 – 6.6 lakh)
Intake:
Rolling intake every 3–4 months
Special Notes:
Classes available in Arabic & English. Female-only.
Program: Vocational Diploma in Beauty & Skincare
Duration: 2 years
Subjects:
Spa & Wellness
Cosmetology Science
Hair and Makeup
Customer Service and Business Basics
Tuition Fees:
SAR 12,000 – 20,000
(Approx. 2.6 – 4.4 lakh)
Language:
English medium available
Intake:
January & September
Operated by: Laureate International Universities
Program: Technical Diploma in Cosmetology / Beauty Technology
Duration: 18–24 months
Subjects:
Hairdressing
Cosmetology Lab
Salon Operations
Health & Safety
Practical Internship
Fees:
SAR 5,000 – 15,000
(Approx. 1.1 – 3.3 lakh)
Some programs are fully subsidized for female students
Eligibility:
High school graduate or equivalent
Intake:
Twice a year: August/September and January
Skin Science & Treatments
Hair Styling, Coloring & Cutting
Makeup Techniques (Day, Evening, Editorial)
Nail Care & Nail Art
Client Consultation & Professional Ethics
Salon Hygiene & Infection Control
Cosmetology Chemistry Basics
High School Diploma (10+2 or equivalent)
Age: 17+
Basic English or Arabic language skills (depending on program)
For international students: Valid passport & study visa
Medical fitness certificate
Modern training centers with international standards
Affordable tuition compared to Europe or North America
Growing beauty industry in Saudi Arabia & GCC
Opportunities to work in high-end salons, spas, hotels, and cosmetic clinics
Cultural exposure and safe, structured learning environments (especially for female students)
Most diploma programs are female-only (due to local norms)
Visa sponsorship provided by the institution (for accredited programs)
Accommodations and transport options available through private colleges
Student support teams help with translation, settling in, and cultural orientation
Program: Bachelor of Beauty and Fashion Management
(Includes advanced cosmetology, makeup, beauty marketing, styling)
Duration: 4 years (full-time)
Key Subjects:
Cosmetic Science & Application
Beauty Business Management
Professional Makeup Techniques
Fashion & Beauty Branding
Skin & Hair Care Technology
Retail and Salon Operations
Language: English
Tuition Fees:
SAR 35,000 – 50,000 per year
(7.5 – 11 lakh approx.)
Intake:
September (Fall) & January (Spring)
Who it’s for: Female students interested in combining cosmetology with business, fashion, and management.
Program: No direct "Bachelor of Cosmetology," but offers:
Bachelor of Applied Health Sciences – Dermatology Nursing
Postgraduate Diploma in Cosmetic Dermatology (Health Sciences Path)
Focus Areas:
Skin anatomy & care
Cosmetic procedures (non-surgical)
Patient care in dermatology settings
Medical aesthetics
Eligibility:
High school graduates for undergrad
Nursing/medical grads for postgrad
Fees:
SAR 25,000 – 40,000/year
(5.5 – 8.8 lakh approx.)
Language: Arabic (some English support in health programs)
Program: Bachelor in Health and Wellness or Design & Fashion (with beauty focus)
Specialization Options:
Beauty Product Development
Health & Spa Management
Image Consulting
Cosmetic Industry Basics
Tuition Fees:
SAR 40,000 – 60,000 per year
(8.8 – 13.2 lakh)
Language: English
Note: This program is broader but has beauty-related pathways.
Beauty Science (Makeup, Haircare, Skincare)
Cosmetic Chemistry
Fashion Styling & Image Consulting
Salon or Spa Management
Marketing & Branding in Beauty Industry
Customer Service & Business Communication
Entrepreneurship in Beauty & Wellness
High school diploma or equivalent (Science or Arts stream accepted)
English proficiency (some colleges may ask for IELTS/TOEFL)
Valid passport (for international students)
Student visa (sponsored by institution)
Female applicants (majority of cosmetology-related programs are female-only)
10+2 or equivalent academic transcript
Passport copy
Passport-size photos
Statement of Purpose (sometimes needed)
English language test (if required)
Health clearance & medical fitness
Visa documents (college assists with process)
Monthly living cost in Jeddah/Riyadh: SAR 1,800–2,500
Most campuses offer student housing
Female-friendly campuses with strong safety and student support
Cultural adaptation support available for international students
Program:
Postgraduate Diploma / Master’s in Cosmetic Dermatology (Under College of Health Sciences)
Ideal For:
Nursing, dermatology, or health sciences graduates interested in skincare, anti-aging treatments, and medical aesthetics.
Subjects Include:
Cosmetic Procedures & Laser Therapy
Advanced Skin Science
Anti-Aging & Rejuvenation
Aesthetic Patient Care
Cosmetic Product Applications
Duration:
1–2 years (Full-time or part-time)
Language: Primarily Arabic with some courses in English
Tuition Fees:
SAR 30,000 – 50,000 per year
(6.6 – 11 lakh approx.)
Eligibility:
Bachelor’s degree in Nursing, Medicine, Dermatology, or equivalent
For international students: English/Arabic proficiency and student visa
Program:
Master of Clinical Dermatology / Aesthetic Medicine (cosmetic dermatology track)
Focus Areas:
Skin Care and Rejuvenation
Non-invasive Cosmetic Techniques
Cosmetic Product Formulation
Laser & Light-Based Treatments
Skin Pharmacology
Duration:
2 years
Eligibility:
Medical/health background required
Fees:
SAR 35,000 – 60,000 per year
(7.7 – 13.2 lakh)
Ranking:
One of Saudi Arabia’s top public universities (Top 3 nationally)
Program:
Master’s in Health & Wellness Management (with beauty/wellness focus)
Includes Courses On:
Spa & Beauty Center Operations
Wellness Psychology
Advanced Aesthetics
Beauty Industry Innovation
Customer Experience in Luxury Beauty
Duration:
2 years (Flexible, evening classes possible)
Language: English
Tuition Fees:
SAR 45,000 – 65,000 total
(9.9 – 14.2 lakh)
Who it’s for:
Beauty professionals, spa managers, and cosmetology diploma holders looking to upscale their business and leadership skills.
Requirement |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Bachelor's Degree |
In cosmetology, nursing, medicine, health sciences, fashion/beauty, or wellness |
|
Language |
English or Arabic depending on program; IELTS/TOEFL may be required |
|
Other |
Valid passport, transcripts, personal statement, visa documents, health clearance |
Student Visa: Most universities will help with sponsorship once you’re admitted
Accommodation: On-campus or nearby housing options are available, especially for female students
Medium of Instruction: English is common in private institutions and postgrad programs
Cultural Fit: Programs are mainly female-only, particularly in beauty and wellness studies
Skin treatments & cosmetic procedures? → Go for PNU or KSU
Beauty business, spa, and wellness leadership? → Choose Dar Al-Hekma
Advanced makeup, fashion-beauty integration? → Consider diploma + MBA in Beauty/Fashion
Program:
PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences or Dermatology (Clinical Research Pathway)
Focus Areas:
Skin pharmacology
Cosmetic product formulation
Anti-aging research
Nanotechnology in cosmetics
Cosmetic dermatology studies
Eligibility:
Master’s in Pharmacy, Dermatology, Medicine, Chemistry, or a related field
Language:
Primarily Arabic with some English-taught modules and research
Fees:
SAR 20,000 – 40,000 per year
(Approx. 4.4 – 8.8 lakh)
Duration:
3–5 years (Full-time)
Program:
PhD in Chemistry or Biochemistry (with a focus on cosmetic applications possible)
Research Areas:
Cosmetic ingredient safety
Organic/natural cosmetic product chemistry
Environmental impact of beauty products
Eligibility:
Master's in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Cosmetic Science, etc.
Tuition:
SAR 25,000 – 50,000/year
(5.5 – 11 lakh approx.)
Language:
English is widely used for research and thesis writing
Program:
PhD in Health Sciences (with specialization in Dermatology or Aesthetics)
Focus:
Women’s skincare research
Clinical cosmetology
Dermatological innovation in GCC
Eligibility:
Master’s in nursing, dermatology, health sciences
Language: Arabic (some research support in English)
Fees:
SAR 30,000 – 60,000/year
(6.6 – 13.2 lakh)
Program:
Developing PhD pathways in Wellness and Lifestyle Sciences
Focus:
Spa and beauty business research
Wellness & health behavior
Aesthetic service management in the Gulf
Eligibility:
Master’s in wellness, management, or related fields
Language: English
Research Area |
Relevant PhD Program |
|---|---|
|
Anti-aging & skincare research |
PhD in Dermatology / Health Sciences |
|
Cosmetic product formulation |
PhD in Chemistry / Pharma Sciences |
|
Natural beauty products |
PhD in Biochemistry / Green Chemistry |
|
Beauty & wellness consumer behavior |
PhD in Business / Wellness |
|
Skin microbiome & product testing |
PhD in Biomedical Sciences |
Master’s Degree: In a related field (Cosmetology, Dermatology, Chemistry, Health, Wellness, Beauty, Business, etc.)
Research Proposal: Required during application
Language: IELTS/TOEFL may be needed for English-based programs
Visa: University-sponsored student visa for international students
Documents: Academic transcripts, Statement of Purpose (SOP), reference letters, research portfolio
Master’s degree and transcript
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Research proposal (2–5 pages)
Passport copy
Language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL if required)
Recommendation letters (2–3)
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Minimum Qualification: High School (10+2 or equivalent)
Age: Minimum 17 years
Language Skills: Basic English or Arabic (some courses require language test or interview)
Documents:
High school certificate
Valid passport
Recent passport-size photos
Health/medical clearance (especially for spa programs)
Academic Requirement:
10+2 / High school diploma with minimum 60%
Science, Arts, or Commerce stream all acceptable (especially for beauty/fashion)
English Proficiency:
IELTS (5.5+) or TOEFL may be required for English-medium programs
Some private colleges conduct their own placement tests
Documents Needed:
School transcripts and certificates
Passport
Personal Statement / SOP
Visa documents (college helps)
Possibly a portfolio (for fashion/creative programs)
Preferred Skills (not mandatory):
Passion for beauty, style, aesthetics
Creative mindset
Basic experience in makeup or hairstyling (for practical courses)
Education Background:
Bachelor's in Nursing, Medicine, Health Sciences, Pharmacy, Cosmetology, or Spa/Beauty Management
Other Requirements:
1–2 recommendation letters
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Research interest (for dermatology or wellness)
Language Proficiency:
IELTS (6.0+) or TOEFL
Some universities accept bilingual (Arabic/English) students
Documents:
Bachelor’s degree & transcript
Passport & visa documents
Health clearance
Master’s Degree: In a relevant subject (Cosmetic Science, Dermatology, Chemistry, Business, etc.)
Research Proposal: Clear idea of what you want to study
English Proficiency: IELTS 6.5+ or academic TOEFL
Supervisor Matching: Some universities require pre-approval from a professor
Documents:
Master’s transcript
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Letters of Recommendation
Research proposal
SOP and Passport
Intake Season |
Month |
Availability |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall Intake |
September |
Most common for Bachelor's & Diplomas |
|
Spring Intake |
January/February |
Available in many private colleges |
|
Summer/Short-Term |
May–July |
Short courses, workshops, and certifications |
|
Rolling Intake |
Year-round |
Vocational diplomas, beauty academies (every 2–3 months) |
Intakes:
Rolling Admissions (new batches every 2–4 months)
Popular Start Months:
January, April, July, September, November
Application Deadline:
Usually 1–2 months before course start date
Example: For July intake, apply by May or early June
No entrance exam, but some may require an interview or basic English/Arabic test
Main Intakes:
Fall (September)
Spring (January/February)
Application Deadlines:
Fall Intake: Apply by May to July
Spring Intake: Apply by October to December
Rolling deadlines possible for international students (case-by-case)
Main Intake:
September (Fall)
Application Deadline:
Usually between February – April
Deadlines are strict; no rolling admissions
Postgrad admissions may require:
Early research proposal
Recommendation letters
English proficiency test results
Intake |
Apply Between |
Courses Offered |
|---|---|---|
|
Spring 2025 |
Sep 2024 – Dec 2024 |
Diplomas, Bachelor’s (some), Certifications |
|
Summer 2025 |
Feb – April 2025 |
Short-term & part-time courses |
|
Fall 2025 |
April – July 2025 |
Full Diplomas, Bachelor’s, Postgrad |
|
Rolling / Monthly |
Ongoing |
Beauty academies, private institutes |
Apply at least 2–3 months early to allow time for:
Visa processing
Medical checkups
Document translation (if required)
Private colleges are more flexible with late applications and accept international students year-round
Always check if the medium of instruction is Arabic, English, or bilingual
Passport copy
Academic certificates (translated if needed)
Personal photo
Statement of Purpose (for bachelor’s/master’s)
Proof of language proficiency (if required)
Health clearance certificate
Visa documents (once accepted)
Program Level |
Duration |
Tuition Fees (SAR) |
Approx. in INR |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Diploma in Cosmetology |
1–2 years |
SAR 12,000 – 30,000 |
2.65 – 6.6 lakh |
|
Short Certificate Courses |
1–6 months |
SAR 2,500 – 8,000 |
55,000 – 1.75 lakh |
|
Bachelor’s in Beauty/Fashion Management |
3–4 years |
SAR 35,000 – 50,000/year |
7.7 – 11 lakh per year |
|
Master’s / Postgrad Diploma in Cosmetic Dermatology |
1–2 years |
SAR 30,000 – 60,000/year |
6.6 – 13.2 lakh per year |
|
PhD (Related to Cosmetology) |
3–5 years |
SAR 20,000 – 50,000/year |
4.4 – 11 lakh per year |
Diploma Programs:
SAR 12,000 – 25,000 (2.65 – 5.5 lakh total)
Short Certificate Courses:
SAR 2,500 – 8,000 (55,000 – 1.75 lakh)
Rolling batches & flexible payment plans available
Often includes practical kits, tools, and uniforms in cost
Bachelor’s in Beauty/Fashion/Wellness Management:
SAR 35,000 – 50,000 per year
(7.7 – 11 lakh/year)
Master’s in Wellness / Spa Management:
SAR 45,000 – 65,000 total
(9.9 – 14.2 lakh total program)
Scholarships may be available for high-performing international students
Postgrad Diploma in Cosmetic Dermatology / Aesthetic Medicine:
SAR 30,000 – 50,000 per year
(6.6 – 11 lakh)
PhD (Cosmetic Chemistry / Wellness / Dermatology):
SAR 20,000 – 40,000 per year
(4.4 – 8.8 lakh)
Lower tuition than private colleges
Highly respected degrees for medical/science students
Visa & health insurance often included in cost for international students
Expense |
Estimated Cost (SAR) |
Approx. INR |
|---|---|---|
|
Books & Kits |
SAR 1,000 – 2,000 |
22,000 – 44,000 |
|
Accommodation |
SAR 1,500 – 2,500/month |
33,000 – 55,000 |
|
Health Tests (mandatory) |
SAR 500 – 1,000 |
11,000 – 22,000 |
|
Visa Fees |
SAR 2,000 – 3,000 |
44,000 – 66,000 |
|
Flights (India–KSA) |
SAR 1,500 – 2,500 |
33,000 – 55,000 |
Installment plans available at most private colleges
Some TVTC & public vocational colleges are government-subsidized for Saudi citizens (international students pay full fees)
Most institutions accept online payments, wire transfers, or payment on arrival