How to Prepare for the Missouri State Board Exam

If you’re attending cosmetology school or thinking about a career in cosmetology, you’re probably thinking about the state board exam. This is one of the crucial steps you need to complete in order to receive your cosmetology license and start a career. At The Salon Professional Academy (TSPA), St. Louis, we want our students to walk into their exam with confidence. That’s why we care so much about exam prep! Here’s a basic overview of what you need to do to prepare for the Missouri state board exam.

Woman taking a written test.

Requirements

Before you can take the exam, you need to make sure you meet the basic requirements. According to the Missouri Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners, the following is required before applying for the state board exam:

Girl in a black sweater wearing glasses sits at a laptop.

What to Study

There are two portions to the Missouri state board: the theory (written) exam and the practical exam. Based on the National Cosmetology Theory Examination Candidate Information Bulletin (CIB), here is what you should study for each section:

Theory Exam

Practical Exam

What to Bring to Your Exam

On the day of your state board exam, you should arrive 30 minutes before your appointment. Make sure to bring two forms of identification. Examples of primary and secondary identification include:

Primary

Secondary

Career Possibilities With a Cosmetology License

Once you pass the state board and receive your cosmetology license, an exciting variety of career possibilities could become available to you. The beauty industry is full of diverse, creative opportunities and passing your state board exam is the first step toward this type of future!

Beauty advisor helps a blonde client at a makeup counter.

Some careers you could have with a cosmetology license are:

If you’ve been a cosmetologist for years, or your license has lapsed, it’s time to renew! Check out our handy renewal guide here!

Get Information About Our Cosmetology Program

Looking for a cosmetology program that can help you ace the state board exam? Choose TSPA St. Louis! Along with teaching cutting and styling techniques, we also offer education on resume writing and interview skills, and a mock state board exam. Our main goal is preparing students for a future in beauty. Contact us today to learn about cosmetology at TSPA St. Louis!