Tips for passing the NC Cosmetology State Board Practical exam

(Also there is PDF that you can print and use as a checklist to make sure you pack everything you need!)

• Packing your bag: I would suggest having your bag packed with everything you need at least a week before your test. The most effective way to do that is to have a double of everything. That includes shears, combs, curling irons etc.
• Eat before your practical test. I mean eat a healthy meal. I didn’t eat a good meal and I was starving after the test.
• Stay the night where your test is taking place: If you can afford to stay in the place you take it. I stayed in Raleigh and it was a lifesaver. Stay within a 15-minute drive of the testing site.
• Sanitize your hands even when you think it is unnecessary: This one is self-explanatory.
• Do not cut the hair pass your second knuckle: They will take off points.
• Make sure to cut the perimeters of the hair: The check to make sure your perimeter is even.
• Make sure to arrive 30-40 minutes prior to the test.
• Zip up your bag when you’re done getting things out of it: They take off a lot of points for it.
• The waxing and tweezing portion are where a lot of points can be taken off: Take your time with the waxing. Test the mock wax on your wrist. Make sure to apply pressure on the “waxed” area of the mannequin. Also, tweeze in the direction of the hair growth.
• To be on the safe side: I would suggest cutting a 90 degree or 45 degree cut on the mannequin. Make sure to use a razor from the nape to right above the occipital bone of the Mannequin.
• You don’t have to wear scrubs: I would suggest wearing comfortable shoes (ie: No heels) and comfortable clothes. (No lie: A girl wore heels to the test.)
• If you have long hair, Put it up: If you have long hair or hair that can get in your face, just tie it or pin it up. It gets annoying and will require you to need to sanitize your hands more.
• It took my test session about 3 hours to complete: I was so worried about this test because while in school it took 5-7 hours.

NC State Board supply List

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