Redken x Sam Villa “Elevate the Craft” Scholarship Fall 2026
Scholarship Description & Award Information
Redken was created in 1960 by actress Paula Kent, who believed in the power of science. Realizing that there were no products on the market that took a scientific approach to haircare, Kent developed Redken – the first-ever hair brand to utilize the power of protein, moisture, and acidic pH.
Redken introduces the Redken x Sam Villa “Elevate the Craft” Scholarship, a signature legacy program honoring Sam Villa’s extraordinary impact on the professional beauty industry. Inspired by Sam’s belief that “sharing knowledge is the greatest gift we can give one another”. This scholarship celebrates the transformative power of education, mentorship, and giving back. The scholarship will inspire professionals who embody these values.
The scholarship program is open to students pursuing professional beauty education who demonstrate a passion for the profession, a commitment to learning, and financial need. Through this partnership, Beauty Changes Lives and L’Oréal Professional Products Division continue to empower future professionals with the education and opportunities needed to build successful, fulfilling careers.
The scholarship awards up to $5,000 in tuition funding for students enrolled in or accepted into a cosmetology program at any accredited institution.
Award Amounts and Number of Scholarships
One (1) $10,000 Scholarship
Two (2) $5,000 Scholarships
Fall 2026 Scholarship season starts on September 1 – October 31, 2026, at 11:59 PM PST.
Applicant Qualifications
- Be 18 years of age or older at the time of application.
- Be enrolled in or accepted to an eligible Cosmetology program at:
- a U.S.-accredited school leading to licensure or the applicable state-recognized equivalent;
- a BCL Qualifying Partner School.
- Demonstrate passion for the Cosmetology profession, commitment to education, and financial need.
- Not have previously received a scholarship administered by Beauty Changes Lives, including scholarships funded by L’Oreal Professional or any other BCL partner.
- Not be an employee, contractor, or immediate family member of BCL, L’Oreal Professional, or an affiliated vendor.
BCL reserves the right to verify eligibility and make final determinations.
Application Requirements
- Complete theonline application and submit proof of enrollment for a cosmetology program by uploading your progress report or official acceptance letter from your school.
- Submit a THREE-MINUTE MAXIMUM (NO SHORT FORMATS) YouTube video with a public link answering the following questions:
- How will receiving this scholarship impact your goals and journey as you work to elevate your craft in the beauty industry?
- As you grow in your education and career, how do you plan to support or give back to others in the industry?
- How would this scholarship help address financial challenges and support your ability to continue your education?
About L’Oréal Professional Products
Since 1909, L’Oréal has devoted itself solely to one business: beauty. It is a business rich in meaning, as it enables all individuals to express their personalities, gain self-confidence, and feel confident in others. Our passion continues to grow deeper. Today our goal remains unchanged: to empower beautiful transformations and create products that inspire confidence.
Our 37 international brands are divided into four unique Divisions: Luxe, Consumer Products, Dermatological Beauty, and Professional Products. This diverse portfolio includes brands like Kiehl’s, Lancôme, Giorgio Armani Beauty, Yves Saint Laurent Beauté, Ralph Lauren, Aesop, Maybelline New York, Essie, Kérastase, IT Cosmetics, Prada Beauty, Biotherm, Shu Uemura, Viktor&Rolf, Maison Margiela, Urban Decay, Redken, Vichy, La Roche-Posay, Diesel, Garnier, L’Oréal Paris, and more.
