The nail industry is one of the most accessible paths to a creative, client-focused beauty career.
A California manicurist license takes less time than any other beauty school license program — and at Beyond 21st Century Beauty Academy, you'll graduate with skills and a certification that set you apart from day one.
Our nail tech school is located in Santa Fe Springs, CA, serving students from Downey, Norwalk, Whittier, Pico Rivera, Cerritos, and surrounding communities across southeast Los Angeles County and north Orange County. We're just off the 5 and 605 freeways, with evening class options for students who work or have daytime commitments.
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What You'll Learn
Our 400-hour manicuring program is approved by the California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology and covers everything you need to pass your state board exam and work as a professional nail technician.
Gel-X Nail Extensions (Aprés Certified)
As an official Aprés Nail certified school, we teach Gel-X application using Aprés products — one of the fastest-growing nail techniques in the industry. Every student who completes our program receives the official Aprés Gel-X Certification, a credential recognized by salons and clients seeking this specialty.
Acrylic Nails You'll develop proficiency in full sets, fills, and nail repairs using acrylic — one of the most requested services in any nail salon. We cover both natural nail overlays and nail tip extensions.
Gel Polish From soak-off gel to gel manicures, you'll learn proper application, curing, and removal techniques that protect the natural nail and keep clients coming back.
Manicures & Pedicures The foundation of the profession. You'll master classic manicures and pedicures, including hot stone treatments and paraffin wax services, with an emphasis on client comfort and nail health.
Nail Art From basic stamping and decals to freehand designs, nail art is a major differentiator in today's market. You'll build a portfolio of techniques you can use to attract and retain a loyal clientele.
Sanitation, Safety & State Board Prep California's manicurist exam puts heavy weight on safety and sanitation. We build State Board preparation into every week of the program so exam day feels like a review, not a surprise.
Beyond 21st Century Beauty Academy is one of a first nail tech schools in the country to be certified by Aprés Nail— the brand behind Gel-X, one of the most in-demand nail techniques among clients right now.
What that means for you:
Official Aprés Gel-X Certification included — earned upon program completion, at no extra cost
Training with professional Aprés products, the same ones used in top nail salons
A portfolio-worthy specialization that clients actively search for and request by name
A competitive edge when applying for nail tech positions in Los Angeles County
We serve students from across southeast Los Angeles County and north Orange County, including Downey, Norwalk, Whittier, Pico Rivera, La Mirada, La Habra, Cerritos, Paramount, Bellflower, and Compton. Most of our students are within a 15-minute drive of our campus at 13640 Imperial Highway in Santa Fe Springs.
Beyond was founded in 1997 by Miss Maria, who brings over 47 years of experience in the beauty industry. A two-time Teacher of the Year and CCA School Owner of the Year, Miss Maria is hands-on in her school and invested in every student's success. We've licensed over 2,100 beauty professionals, and our graduates are working in salons, spas, and their own nail businesses across the region.
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We built a free California manicurist state board practice exam anyone can use — over 125 questions across all 10 topic areas of the April 2026 PSI/BBC content outline.
Manicuring 400 hours scheduled completion:
Part Time (20 hours per week) – 5 mo.
Course: Manicuring
Tuition: $4,680
Reg. Fees(non refundable): $75
Kit/Books(non refundable): $825
STRF Fee: $15
Total: $5,595
If manicuring isn't the right fit, explore our other programs:
Cosmetology School — 1,000 hours. Covers hair, skin, and nails. The broadest California beauty license.
Esthetician School — 600 hours. Skincare focused. Official Dermalogica partner school. Completes in as few as 5 months.
