An online hair extensions course typically takes 4–12 weeks to complete, depending on your pace. Bela Beauty College's Hair Extension Course is fully self-paced — you can study a few hours a week and finish in three months, or immerse yourself and complete it in four to six weeks. There are no deadlines, no intake dates, and no pressure.
If you're wondering how long hair extension training takes before you can start seeing clients, the answer depends on more than course hours alone. You'll also want time for practice, building confidence, and assembling your kit. Here's an honest breakdown.
How many hours is a hair extensions course?
Bela's Hair Extension Course covers the core techniques: tape-in extensions, hand-tied (weft) extensions, clip-in applications, hair typing, colour matching, blending, and aftercare consultations. The video content and coursework is designed to be completed across approximately 40–60 hours of focused study.
That's roughly:
- 4–6 weeks if you study 8–10 hours per week
- 6–8 weeks if you study 5–7 hours per week
- 10–12 weeks if you study 3–5 hours per week around work or family commitments
Because the course is entirely online and self-paced, you access the lessons whenever suits you — early mornings, evenings, weekends. There's no cohort, no scheduled lectures, and no waiting for others to catch up.
How long before you can start doing hair extensions on clients?
Most students complete the theory and video modules in the timeframe above, then spend an additional two to four weeks practising on mannequin heads and eventually on willing friends or family members before taking their first paying client.
A realistic timeline from enrolment to first paying client looks like this:
- Weeks 1–6: Work through the course modules and video demonstrations at your own pace
- Weeks 4–8: Begin practising techniques on mannequins (often overlapping with later modules)
- Weeks 6–10: Practise on friends and family; refine colour matching and blending
- Week 10–12: Launch your services with confidence and your Bela certificate
Many students charge model rates (discounted prices for practice models) from week six or seven, which is a great way to build your portfolio while still sharpening your skills.
Does the kit affect how quickly you can finish?
If you choose the Hair Extension Course with kit, your professional-grade kit is shipped to you after enrolment. Shipping within Australia typically takes three to seven business days. It's worth starting the theory modules immediately rather than waiting for your kit to arrive — that way, once your kit is in hand, you're ready to start hands-on practice straight away.
Can you do a hair extensions course while working full time?
Absolutely. The self-paced format is specifically designed for people who can't commit to fixed class schedules. Many of Bela's students are parents, career changers, or people currently employed full time who study in the evenings or on weekends.
There are no live sessions to attend, no assignments with submission deadlines, and no penalties for taking longer. You simply work through the modules at the pace that suits your life, then take your assessment when you're ready.
What certificate do you receive?
Upon completing the Hair Extension Course, you receive a Bela Beauty College Certificate in Hair Extensions. This is a private-provider certificate — not a TAFE certificate or government-accredited qualification — but it demonstrates to clients that you've trained with a reputable, specialist college.
Your certificate also supports your insurance application. Most beauty insurance providers in Australia accept private-provider certificates when you can demonstrate the content and hours of training completed.
Ready to start your hair extension career?
Bela Beauty College's Hair Extension Course gives you everything you need to learn professional tape-in and hand-tied extension techniques from home, at your own pace. Prefer to bundle your training? The Hair Bundle combines the Hair Extension Course with the Professional Hair Styling Course for complete hair service training.
Enrol any time, start immediately, and have your Bela certificate in hand within weeks.
Explore the Hair Extension Course →
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does Bela's Hair Extension Course take?
The course typically takes 4–12 weeks to complete depending on how many hours you study each week. It is fully self-paced with no deadlines.
How many hours of study does a hair extensions course require?
Bela's Hair Extension Course involves approximately 40–60 hours of video content and coursework. Most students spread this across four to twelve weeks.
Can I study the hair extensions course online in Australia?
Yes. Bela's Hair Extension Course is 100% online and delivered via pre-recorded video lessons and written modules. There are no on-campus requirements.
How long before I can charge clients after completing the course?
Most students spend two to four weeks practising on mannequins and models after completing the coursework. Many begin charging model rates from week six onwards.
Do I need to be experienced to enrol in a hair extensions course?
No prior experience is needed. Bela's Hair Extension Course is designed for complete beginners and covers everything from hair typing through to full installation techniques.
Does the hair extensions course come with a kit?
You can choose the course with or without a kit. The kit option includes professional-grade tools and products shipped to your door in Australia.
What certificate do I get after completing a hair extensions course?
You receive a Bela Beauty College Certificate in Hair Extensions — a private-provider certificate accepted by most Australian beauty insurance providers.
Can I do the hair extensions course while working full time?
Yes. Because the course is self-paced and fully online, you can study in evenings, on weekends, or in any spare time. There are no live sessions or fixed schedules.
