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✨ Welcome to 5T Beauty Academy’s Manicurist Program
Looking for a career that blends creativity, flexibility, and financial freedom? You’re in the right place.
At 5T Beauty Academy in Raleigh, NC, our 300-hour program is designed to get you licensed in just 8 weeks (full-time) or 11 weeks (part-time). You’ll receive hands-on training in manicuring, pedicuring, acrylics, gel nails, nail art, and sanitation, … All guided by experienced instructors.
🧭 What You’ll Find on This Page:
- What Is a Manicurist?
Learn what licensed nail technicians do, including the services they’re certified to perform in North Carolina. - Hands-On Training in Nail Services
Get trained in manicuring, pedicuring, acrylics, gel nails, nail art, electric filing, and sanitation — all with real-world practice. - Career Opportunities and Licensing Requirements
Explore where a nail license can take you — salons, spas, or your own nail business — and what it takes to get licensed. - Choose a Flexible Schedule
Full-time or part-time — pick the schedule that fits your life and goals. - Affordable Tuition and Payment Plans
Select a payment option that fits your budget — pay in full or spread it out over time with low weekly payments.
- Students Study Work
See how our students gain real-world experience through hands-on nail training with actual clients. - We Help You Pass With Confidence
Learn how we fully prepare you for both the written and practical licensing exams in North Carolina. - What’s Included: Kit, Tools, & Certification
Your tuition includes a full nail kit, tools, uniform, and access to certification support — no hidden fees. - Pick Your Start Date & Schedule
Choose from daytime or evening classes and find the next available start date that works for you. - Enroll Now
Fill out the form to connect with our admissions team and reserve your seat in the next class.
1. What Is a Manicurist?
A manicurist is a licensed professional specializing in nail care, offering services such as manicures, pedicures, nail art, and enhancements.
At 5T Beauty Academy, our program equips you with the skills to provide these services confidently and professionally.
What Can Manicurists Do?
This program teaches more than just the basics.
- Nail anatomy and sanitation practices
- Manicures and pedicures
- Gel and acrylic application
- Nail art and current trends
- Client communication and salon etiquette
- State board exam prep
Additionally, you’ll practice with real clients in a salon-like setting. For this reason, our graduates feel confident on day one of their careers.
2. Hands-On Training in Manicurist Services
At 5T Beauty Academy, our 300-hour Manicurist Program provides hands-on training in a variety of essential nail services. Here’s what you’ll learn:
Manicures & Pedicures
Learn how to safely and professionally perform basic and spa manicures and pedicures, including nail shaping, cuticle care, massage techniques, and polish application.
Acrylic & Gel Nail Applications
Get trained in applying and sculpting artificial nails using acrylic powder and gel systems. Learn tips, overlays, fills, and safe removal techniques for long-lasting results.
Nail Art & Design
Explore the creative side of nails! Practice freehand designs, glitter, rhinestones, foils, ombré, and other trending techniques to create eye-catching nail art your clients will love.
Electric Filing Techniques
Master the safe use of electric nail files (e-files) for shaping, smoothing, prepping, and removing product — a vital skill for efficient and professional service.
Sanitation & Safety Protocols
Understand state board regulations for infection control, proper disinfection of tools, and hygiene standards to ensure client and technician safety at all times.
Client Consultation & Business Skills
Learn how to conduct consultations, recommend services, manage client expectations, and build your personal brand or salon business with strong communication and service skills.
3. Career Opportunities and Licensing Requirements
Licensed nail technicians in North Carolina typically earn between $25 to $45 per hour, depending on their experience, location, and services offered. Many nail techs increase their income through tips, upselling nail art or enhancements, and building a loyal clientele.
Some experienced manicurists earn $60,000 or more per year, especially those working in high-end salons or owning their own nail business.
No — in North Carolina and most states, you must have a license to legally perform nail services on paying clients.
Working without a license can result in:
- Fines or legal action
- Your business being shut down
- No insurance coverage for accidents or claims
- Difficulty getting hired by professional spas or salons
To become a licensed manicurist in North Carolina, you must:
- ✔️ Complete a 300-hour training program at a state-approved school like 5T Beauty Academy
- ✔️ Pass the State Board Theory Exam (written test)
- ✔️ Pass the State Board Practical Exam (hands-on demonstration)
- ✔️ Pay all required fees and submit your application for licensure
We’ll guide you through every step — from training and mock exams to paperwork and scheduling your test.
To become a licensed manicurist in NC, you must:
- Complete a 300-hour Manicurist Program at an approved school (like 5T)
- Pass the Theory Exam (written test)
- Pass the Practical Exam (hands-on demonstration)
Once you pass both, you’ll receive your NC Manicurist License and can begin working legally in salons or start your own business.
At 5T, our 300-hour Manicurist Program includes:
- Nail anatomy, sanitation, and NC State Board laws
- Hands-on training in manicures, pedicures, acrylics, gel nails, nail art, and e-filing
- Mock exams and coaching to help you pass the state licensing tests
Yes. As soon as you complete the 300 hours and meet graduation requirements, 5T will certify you so you can register with the NC State Board and take both your Theory and Practical exams.
That depends on your schedule:
- Full-Time Program: 8 weeks (Monday–Friday, 9 AM – 5 PM)
- Part-Time Program: 11 weeks (Evenings + Saturday, with online theory)
Not when you train at 5T! Our students have a very high pass rate because we:
- Guide you step-by-step through the test content
- Provide mock theory and practical exams to practice
- Offer personal support and review sessions until you feel confident
4. Pick a Flexible Schedule
📅 Full-Time Manicurist Program Schedule
🎯 Goal hours per week: 38 hours/week
🕒 Program Length: 8 weeks
📆 Class Days: Monday to Friday
⏰ Class Time: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
📖 Makeup Hours: Saturday (optional)
💻 Hybrid Online Hours: Up to 90 hours total
🌐 Max 10 hours/week allowed for online learning
📅 Part-Time Manicurist Program Schedule
🎯 Goal hours per week: 28 hours/week
🕒 Program Length: 11 weeks
📆 Class Days & Times:
Monday: 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Tuesday: 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Wednesday: 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
🌐 Required Online Learning: 10 hours/week
📖 Makeup Hours: Can attend earlier during daytime if available
⏳ Attendance Policy for Manicurist Program (Flexible Schedule)
At 5T Beauty Academy, we offer flexible schedules so Manicurist students can learn while balancing work, family, and personal life. However, flexibility also comes with accountability.
To make sure every student stays on track to graduate on time and qualify for the North Carolina Manicurist License, we:
✅ Review your attendance and total hours every 2 weeks
✅ Expect students to meet their weekly hour goals
✅ Offer optional makeup hours on Saturday (Full-Time) or early-day access (Part-Time)
💰 Missed Hours Policy
If a student does not meet their required hours during the evaluation period, an additional charge will be added to cover extra teacher supervision and facility usage.
- Daytime students: $12 per missed hour
- Nighttime students: $14 per missed hour
📌 Example:
Let’s say a Manicurist student is expected to complete 76 hours in 2 weeks, but only completes 66 hours.
❌ Hours missed: 10 hours
💳 Extra charge: If the student is in the daytime program: 10 hours × $12 = $120 added to the student’s account. If the student is in the nighttime program: 10 hours × $14 = $140 added to the student’s account
🙌 We’re Here to Help You Stay on Track!
We want every student to succeed. That’s why:
✔️ You’ll always know your hour goals
✔️ You’ll get support from instructors if you fall behind
✔️ We’ll help you schedule makeup hours before any late fees are added
A: We offer two flexible options so you can train even if you have a full-time job or family responsibilities:
| Program | Days & Times | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Full-Time | Mon–Fri, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM | 8 weeks |
| Part-Time | Mon–Wed (5:30 PM–9:30 PM) + Sat (9 AM–6 PM) | 11 weeks |
A: Yes! Our Manicurist Program includes hybrid learning. You’ll complete:
👩💻 Theory online with guided support
🙌 Hands-on practice in person at our campus
This helps you learn at your pace while still getting live training!
A: You’ll study the theory lessons (like nail anatomy, sanitation, and safety) online through videos and quizzes, and then come to school to practice real services such as manicures, pedicures, gel, acrylic, and nail art.
A: 100%! Our students who do hybrid training pass their exams just as well — or even better — than full in-person programs because we combine:
✔️ Expert-led live demos
✔️ Step-by-step mock exams
✔️ Extra review and coaching when needed
A: Yes! Many of our Manicurist students work part-time or have family responsibilities. That’s why we built hybrid flexibility into both full-time and part-time programs — so you can learn without pausing your life.
5. Affordable Tuition and Payment Plans
Manicurist 300 hrs
Day time
$4200 (8 weeks)
This agreement outlines the payment terms for the 300-Hour Manicurist Course at 5T Beauty Academy.
1. Course Fees (non-refundable)
- Registration Fee: $300
- Uniform: 2 T-shirts @ $25 each, 2 Name Tags @ $6 (Total: $56)
- Books and CIMA Program: $400 (separate price will be $170 for books and $315 for CIMA)
- Student Kit: $100 (includes tools and materials for hands-on learning)
- Total Initial Payment: $550 (due upon enrollment)
2. Tuition Fee
- Tuition Rate: $12 per hour
- Total Tuition for 300 Hours: $3,600
- Total Balance: $4,200 (tuition + fees – cashback*)
3. Payment Schedule
- An initial down payment of $550 is required to secure enrollment.
- After the down payment, students must pay $300 weekly every Tuesday starting the 1st Tuesday of the course until the balance is paid in full.
- The remaining balance after the down payment is $3,906, which will be paid through weekly installments.
4. Additional Benefits
- 5T Beauty Academy will provide all necessary products and supplies for students to use on campus during their training at no additional cost. Students must sign in and out each time they use these items.
- *Students who complete the payments before the last day of the course will receive a $256 cash back as a reward.
5. Course Completion Requirements
- Students must complete 300 hours within the 8-week program.
- If a student does not complete the 76 hours within the bi-weekly hour requirement, they will be charged $12 per hour for any additional hours needed to reach the bi-weekly hour requirement.
6. Late or Missed Payments
- Obligation to Pay: The weekly payment must be made regardless of any absences, holidays, or school closures. This includes situations where the student does not attend classes for any reason.
- Payment Method: Payments must be made through the method specified by 5T Beauty Academy, and it is the student’s responsibility to ensure that payments are made on time.
- Failure to Pay: Failure to make the required weekly payment may result in additional fees $25/week, suspension of classes, or other consequences as determined by 5T Beauty Academy.
- If a payment is missed in 2 weeks, the student must make it up within 7 days. Failure to do so may result in suspension from the program.
- Continuous missed payments may lead to dismissal from the program without a refund.
Manicurist 300 hrs
Night time
$4800 (11 weeks)
This agreement outlines the payment terms for the 300-Hour Manicurist Course at 5T Beauty Academy.
1. Course Fees (non-refundable)
- Registration Fee: $300
- Uniform: 2 T-shirts @ $25 each, 2 Name Tags @ $6 (Total: $56)
- Books and CIMA Program: $400 (separate price will be $170 for books and $315 for CIMA)
- Student Kit: $100 (includes tools and materials for hands-on learning)
- Total Initial Payment: $550 (due upon enrollment)
2. Tuition Fee
- Tuition Rate: $14 per hour
- Total Tuition for 300 Hours: $4,200
- Total Balance: $4,800 (tuition + fees – cashback*)
3. Payment Schedule
- An initial down payment of $550 is required to secure enrollment.
- After the down payment, students must pay $300 weekly every Tuesday starting the 1st Tuesday of the course until the balance is paid in full.
- The remaining balance after the down payment is $4,506, which will be paid through weekly installments.
4. Additional Benefits
- 5T Beauty Academy will provide all necessary products and supplies for students to use on campus during their training at no additional cost. Students must sign in and out each time they use these items.
- *Students who complete the payments before the last day of the course will receive a $256 cash back as a reward.
5. Course Completion Requirements
- Students must complete 300 hours within the 11-week program.
- If a student does not complete the 56 hours within the bi-weekly hour requirement, they will be charged $14 per hour for any additional hours needed to reach the bi-weekly hour requirement.
6. Late or Missed Payments
- Obligation to Pay: The weekly payment must be made regardless of any absences, holidays, or school closures. This includes situations where the student does not attend classes for any reason.
- Payment Method: Payments must be made through the method specified by 5T Beauty Academy, and it is the student’s responsibility to ensure that payments are made on time.
- Failure to Pay: Failure to make the required weekly payment may result in additional fees $25/week, suspension of classes, or other consequences as determined by 5T Beauty Academy.
- If a payment is missed in 2 weeks, the student must make it up within 7 days. Failure to do so may result in suspension from the program.
- Continuous missed payments may lead to dismissal from the program without a refund.
📚 Program Overview
The Manicurist program Full-time at 5T Beauty Academy is an 8-week, 300-hour course that meets the North Carolina Board of Cosmetic Art Examiners’ educational requirements for licensure.
💸 Tuition & Payment Plan
Basic Tuition: $3,600
Upfront Non-Refundable Fees (Registration, CIMA, Kit, Uniform):
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Required Registration | $300 |
| 2 T-shirts + Name Tags | $56 |
| Online Program + CIMA | $400 |
| Kit | $100 |
| Total | $856 |
💳 The tuition for the 300-hour Manicurist program can be paid in 3 different plans:
📅 Tuition Payment Plans (Choose One)
| Plan | Weekly Payments | Duration | Finance Fee | Total Due |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A | $473/wk | 8 weeks | +5% = $180 | $3,780 |
| B | $247/wk | 16 weeks | +10% = $360 | $3,960 |
| C | $135/wk | 32 weeks | +20% = $720 | $4,320 |
💡 The longer the plan, the lower your weekly payment — but the higher the total interest.
🎓 Graduation & Licensing Policy
- Graduation: Students complete the program upon finishing 300 hours.
- Licensing Exams:
✅ Theory Exam approval is granted upon graduation.
⚠️ Practical Exam approval is withheld until tuition is fully paid.
📄 Temporary License
Upon passing the Theory Exam, students may apply for a Temporary Permit (as allowed by the NC State Board), allowing supervised work while waiting for the Practical Exam.
🧾 Final Licensing
Final Practical Exam approval and permanent license eligibility are granted after all tuition and fees are paid in full.
❗ Important Notes
- State Board Credit: 5 years of credit from the graduation date to complete licensing requirements.
- Early Termination: If the contract is terminated, unpaid balances will incur a termination fee based on the week of termination:
- Weeks 8–16 → 10% fee
- Weeks 17–25 → 15% fee
- Weeks 26–32 → 20% fee
💳 Late Payment Policy
- Due Dates: Payments due on the same day each week.
- Grace Period: 3 calendar days.
- Late Fees: $25 per week after the grace period until the balance is cleared.
- Impact on Graduation: Outstanding tuition or late fees prevent Practical Exam approval.
- Termination: More than 4 weeks overdue may result in contract termination and applicable early termination fees.
- Reinstatement: Possible within 30 days of termination, subject to Academy approval, payment of full balance, and a $500 reinstatement fee.
📚 Program Overview
The Manicurist program Part-time at 5T Beauty Academy is an 11-week, 300-hour course that meets the North Carolina Board of Cosmetic Art Examiners’ educational requirements for licensure.
💸 Tuition & Payment Plan
Basic Tuition: $4,200
Upfront Non-Refundable Fees (Registration, CIMA, Kit, Uniform):
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Required Registration | $300 |
| 2 T-shirts + Name Tags | $56 |
| Online Program + CIMA | $400 |
| Kit | $100 |
| Total | $856 |
💳 The tuition for the 300-hour Manicurist program can be paid in 3 different plans:
📅 Tuition Payment Plans (Choose One)
| Plan | Weekly Payments | Duration | Finance Fee | Total Due |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A | $400/wk | 11 weeks | +5% = $210 | $4,410 |
| B | $210/wk | 22 weeks | +10% = $420 | $4,620 |
| C | $115/wk | 44 weeks | +20% = $840 | $5,040 |
💡 The longer the plan, the lower your weekly payment — but the higher the total interest.
🎓 Graduation & Licensing Policy
- Graduation: Students complete the program upon finishing 300 hours.
- Licensing Exams:
✅ Theory Exam approval is granted upon graduation.
⚠️ Practical Exam approval is withheld until tuition is fully paid.
📄 Temporary License
Upon passing the Theory Exam, students may apply for a Temporary Permit (as allowed by the NC State Board), allowing supervised work while waiting for the Practical Exam.
🧾 Final Licensing
Final Practical Exam approval and permanent license eligibility are granted after all tuition and fees are paid in full.
❗ Important Notes
- State Board Credit: 5 years of credit from the graduation date to complete licensing requirements.
- Early Termination: If the contract is terminated, unpaid balances will incur a termination fee based on the week of termination:
- Weeks 8–19 → 12% fee
- Weeks 20–31 → 16% fee
- Weeks 32–44 → 20% fee
💳 Late Payment Policy
- Due Dates: Payments due on the same day each week.
- Grace Period: 3 calendar days.
- Late Fees: $25 per week after the grace period until the balance is cleared.
- Impact on Graduation: Outstanding tuition or late fees prevent Practical Exam approval.
- Termination: More than 4 weeks overdue may result in contract termination and applicable early termination fees.
- Reinstatement: Possible within 30 days of termination, subject to Academy approval, payment of full balance, and a $500 reinstatement fee.
6. Students' Real-World Learning Experience (Manicurist Program)
🌟 This is the living proof at 5T Beauty Academy – where our Manicurist students don’t just study hard, but also continuously work to improve their skills through real-life practice.
Through hands-on services with real clients, dedication, and guidance from instructors, our students gain the confidence and experience they need to succeed in salons, spas, or even launch their own businesses.
Their transformation is our greatest pride — and a true inspiration for future nail professionals.
👉 Click here to see the amazing work of our Manicurist students!
7. We Help You Pass With Confidence
At 5T Beauty Academy, we guide you step-by-step to pass both your North Carolina Manicurist licensing exams with confidence — even if you’ve never taken a state board test before!
📘 You’ll Be Trained To Pass:
✅ Theory Exam (Written Test):
We simplify complex topics like nail structure, sanitation, NC laws, and product chemistry
Includes weekly review quizzes, online support, and bonus study sheets
Full mock theory exams so you feel fully prepared on test day
✅ Practical Exam (Hands-On Demo):
You’ll practice weekly using real exam kits and follow exact state board steps
We demonstrate every portion of the test for you
You’ll complete the full mock exam several times under teacher supervision
🙌 We don’t just prepare you to pass — we prepare you to succeed.
Our graduates are thrilled - Here’s what they say!
8. What's Included: Kit, Tools, & Certification Support
🎒 Student Kit – Everything You Need for Hands-On Success
At 5T Beauty Academy, every Manicurist student receives a complete Student Kit designed for real-world training from day one. Your kit includes all the professional tools and materials required to complete the 300-hour Manicurist Program and prepare for the North Carolina State Board Practical Exam.
Included items typically cover:
Nail care tools (cuticle pusher, clippers, buffers, etc.)
Manicure & pedicure supplies
Acrylic and gel application brushes
Practice hand
Disinfection & sanitation products
Exam-approved storage case
✅ CIMA Digital Access
You’ll also receive access to the CIMA platform for online theory learning, quizzes, and video demonstrations.
🛠️ Advanced Nail Techniques: Dipping Powder & Gel-X
At 5T Beauty Academy, we go beyond the basics by offering bonus demonstrations on advanced nail systems like Dipping Powder and Gel-X Extensions.
⚠️ Note: These services are not included in the State Board practical exam, but we teach them to help you expand your service menu and earning potential.
💡 Want to Practice Dip or Gel-X? Here’s What to Bring:
Students who wish to practice these advanced services during class should bring their own supplies:
✅ Dipping Powder Kit
✅ Gel-X Extension Kit
✅ Electric Nail Drill
✅ LED or UV Gel Lamp
Why? These are not required by the State Board, so they are not included in the standard student kit. However, we are excited to demonstrate these services and support you as you grow your skillset!
9. Pick Your Start Date & Schedule
Manicurist Fulltime: 8 weeks
Monday - Friday: 9:00AM - 05:00PM
Online: Available
Goal hours weekly: 38hrs
| Month | Start Date (MM-DD-YY) |
- | End Date (MM-DD-YY) |
|---|---|---|---|
| OCT 2025 | 10/13 | - | 12/17/2025 |
| NOV 2025 | 11/10 | - | 1/29/2026 |
| DEC 2025 | FULL | ||
| JAN 2026 | 1/5 | - | 3/3/2026 |
| 1/26 | - | 3/23/2026 | |
| FEB 2026 | |||
| MAR 2026 | 3/2 | - | 4/27/2026 |
| 3/23 | - | 5/15/2026 | |
| APR 2026 | 4/27 | - | 6/24/2026 |
Manicurist Parttime: 11 weeks
Mon - Wednesday: 05:30PM - 9:30PM
Thursday - Friday: Online at home 4 hours
Saturday: 09:00AM - 5:00PM
Goal hour weekly: 28hrs
| Month | Start Date (MM-DD-YY) | - | End Date (MM-DD-YY) |
|---|---|---|---|
| OCT 2025 | 10/20 | - | /2026 |
| NOV 2025 | FULL | ||
| DEC 2025 | 12/1 | - | 3/2/2026 |
| JAN 2026 | FULL | ||
| 1/26 | - | 4/13/2026 | |
| FEB 2026 | FULL | ||
| MAR 2026 | 3/2 | - | 5/16/2026 |
| FULL | |||
| APR 2026 | 4/13 | - | 6/29/2026 |
10. Enroll Now
