Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you want to know about the Master Barber Program at GOAT Barber Academy.
THE PROGRAM
About the Master Barber Program
What program do you offer?
We offer the Ohio Master Barber Program — 1,800 clock hours of professional barber training approved by the Ohio State Cosmetology and Barber Board (OSCBB). This is the full licensure program. When you complete it and pass your state board exams, you graduate as a licensed Master Barber in Ohio.
What will I actually learn?
Everything a working barber needs to know. The program covers haircuts, tapers, fades, flat tops, and scissor work; beard grooming, shaping, and traditional straight razor shaving; hair and scalp care; chemical services including color and lightening; business skills, client communication, and how to build a loyal book; and Ohio state laws, sanitation, and infection control. Curriculum is delivered through Pivot Point International — one of the most respected names in professional barber and cosmetology education.
How long does the program take?
It depends on the schedule you choose. Full-time students (Tuesday–Saturday, 9AM–5PM) finish in approximately 10 months. Part-time options are available and typically run 12–14 months. All schedules are Tuesday through Saturday — we are closed Sundays and Mondays.
What does a typical day look like?
Your day is split between theory and hands-on floor time. You’ll start with instruction — working through curriculum, studying technique, and building your knowledge base. Then you move to the clinic floor where you practice on mannequins and real clients under the direct supervision of your instructor. This isn’t a school where you sit in a classroom all day. You’re doing real work from early on.
Who is the instructor?
Alex Sierra-Tirado — licensed Ohio Barber Instructor, 1st Place winner at the Cleveland Barber Expo, and one of the most respected names in the Youngstown barber community. Alex has been cutting in this city for over 10 years and built his reputation the right way — one client at a time. He closed his other shop to build GOAT full time because he believes the way barbers are being trained needs to change. He’s not here to just get you through a test. He’s here to make you great.
GETTING IN
Enrollment & Admissions
What are the requirements to enroll?
You must be at least 16 years old and have a high school diploma or GED. That’s it. We don’t require prior experience — if you have the drive to put in the work, we have the program to get you there.
When can I start?
We use rolling enrollment — you don’t have to wait for a semester start date. New students begin on a scheduled start date that works for them. Join the waitlist and we’ll reach out to walk you through the next steps when we’re ready to enroll.
How do I apply?
We’re currently building our first class. Join the waitlist on our website and we’ll contact you directly to schedule a conversation, answer your questions, and walk you through enrollment. There’s no pressure — we want to make sure GOAT is the right fit for you.
Do I need any tools or supplies before I start?
No. Your professional tool kit is included in your kit and supply fee and is distributed to you at the start of the program. It includes everything you need — professional clippers, trimmers, shears, a straight razor, combs, brushes, shaving tools, and your Pivot Point textbooks and study guides. These are yours to keep.
COST & PAYING FOR IT
Tuition & Payment Plans
How much does the program cost?
At $15,000, GOAT Barber Academy offers the lowest tuition of any licensed barber program in the area. Here’s your full estimated investment:
Tuition: $15,000 · Registration Fee: $150 · Kit & Supplies: estimated $1,200–$1,500 (exact amount confirmed at enrollment)
Total estimated investment: ~$16,350–$16,650
The more you put down upfront, the less you pay overall — students who put down 25% or more receive a tuition discount, and students who pay in full pay just $14,250. Contact us to go over your options and find the plan that works for your situation.
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes. We offer flexible in-house payment plans with as little as 15% down. Payments are collected through TFC, our third-party payment partner. You don’t need a bank loan or outside financing — we handle it directly. Contact us and we’ll walk you through exactly what your monthly payments would look like based on what you put down.
Is financial aid available?
Federal financial aid (FAFSA) is not available at this time — as a newly licensed school, federal Title IV eligibility takes several years to qualify for. We’re upfront about this because you deserve honest information before you commit. What we do offer are in-house payment plans designed to make the program as accessible as possible. Contact us and we’ll talk through your options.
AFTER YOU GRADUATE
Licensing & Your Career
What happens after I finish my hours?
Once you complete your 1,800 hours and meet your academic requirements, you’ll sit for the Ohio State Board exams — a written theory exam and a practical skills exam. Pass both and you’re a licensed Master Barber in Ohio. We prep you for both throughout the program, not just at the end.
Do you help with job placement?
We don’t just hand you a diploma and wish you luck. GOAT’s long-term vision is to build a network of shops where our graduates can walk directly into chairs. We’re invested in what happens to you after you leave — because your success is our reputation. We’ll work with you on building your portfolio, connecting with the right people, and setting yourself up from day one.
What can I do with a Master Barber license?
A Master Barber license in Ohio lets you work in any licensed barber shop, rent a booth, open your own shop, or eventually become a licensed barber instructor yourself. It’s a portable, in-demand license that gives you real options — a career you own, not a job someone else controls.
Is barbering a stable career?
Barbering is recession-resistant, can’t be outsourced, and is growing. People will always need haircuts. A skilled barber who knows how to build a loyal clientele and run their chair like a business can build a genuinely great living. The key word is skilled — and that’s exactly what we’re here to build.
Still Have Questions?
We’d rather talk to you directly. Join the waitlist and we’ll reach out — no pressure, no sales pitch. Just a real conversation about your future.