How to Prepare for the Georgia State Board Exam

Georgia’s cosmetology state board exam has two parts: a written theory exam of 110 multiple-choice questions covering sanitation, chemistry, and state law, and a practical exam where candidates demonstrate skills like haircutting, color application, and sanitation setup for a passing score of 70% or higher. At Keune Academy by 124, exam readiness, including practice tests and practical exam simulations, is built into the Master Cosmetology and Hair Design curriculum, so studying for the boards happens throughout the program rather than only at the end.

What Should You Study Before the State Exam?

If you’re thinking about or already attending cosmetology school, you’re probably wondering about the state board exam, since Georgia requires all student cosmetologists to sit for it before providing hair and other beauty services for clients. We know taking tests can be stressful, so we’ve put together a guide on what to expect and how to get ready to sit for it. Read all about the process below!

Georgia wants to see cosmetology students succeed, which is why they’ve listed out exactly what to expect when taking the exam. Studying can help you feel ready when you sit down to take the boards. Here’s some of what you can expect:

Written and Multiple Choice Examination

This portion of the test evaluates students’ beauty knowledge through a series of 110 multiple-choice questions. That may seem like a lot, but don’t worry because you’ll be given an hour and a half to complete them all. To make sure you give yourself as much time as possible, use good test-taking strategies.

Some great test taking strategies include:

• Listening attentively to instructions
• Answering all of the questions
• Going with your initial gut instinct on an answer
• Pacing yourself

Taking practice tests can also be helpful, along with reviewing the questions you missed. No matter what, study hard and go into exam day feeling confident!

Practical Examination

The test also includes a practical portion. You will be expected to demonstrate skills in various beauty techniques. Procedures you’ll be expected to successfully perform are:

• Preparing potential clients in a professional manner
• Proper curling procedures using a Marcel iron
• Basic layered haircut
• Mock permanent wave
• Mock predisposition and strand test
• Mock foil
• Mock color retouch
• Mock virgin relaxer
• Blood exposure procedure
• Basic facial
• Sculptured nail

Each section of the practical exam is weighted differently for a total of 100 points. A score of 70% or higher meets the state’s passing requirement for the practical portion of the exam.

What Should You Bring to the State Exam?

Now that you’ve studied and reviewed what’s going to be on the exam, it’s time to go over what you should bring. Here’s a helpful list of things you should bring to your test day!

• Your exam admissions letter
• Two forms of identification (one must have both your photograph and signature)
• State board kit
• #2 pencils (mechanical pencils are not allowed)

Things to Remember on Exam Day

There’s a lot to think about before taking the test, so we’ve put together some general things to keep in mind to help ease your mind!

• Make sure you know the location, date, and time you’re taking the exam. You may even want to drive to the testing location so you know exactly where to go since you will not be allowed in the testing area if you arrive late.
• Read all testing instructions carefully and don’t be afraid to ask questions to the proctor if you’re unsure about something.
• Don’t bring food or drinks into the testing area.
• Notes or electronic devices (including watches) will not be allowed in the examination room.
• Wear clothes that make you feel comfy but also confident.
• Make sure you eat a good breakfast to help wake up your brain.
• Bring a jacket in case it gets a little chilly while taking the test.

These are just some important things to keep in mind as your examination day draws nearer. Taking exams can seem intimidating, but remember that it’s part of the process toward a career in cosmetology. If beauty is your passion, then all the hard work and determination will be worth it!

How You Can Start Getting Ready

Before you can sit for the state board exam and become a licensed cosmetologist, you need to complete your cosmetology education. At Keune Academy by 124, our cosmetology program covers hairstyling, coloring, cutting, and more before you sit for the state board exam. Contact us to find out how you can start the application process.