Kentucky · Esthetics

Kentucky Esthetics State Board Exam Prep

Practice the exact content PSI (NIC exam) puts on your Kentucky esthetics exam. Mapped to the official topic breakdown below — no guessing, no generic Milady-style filler.

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The Kentucky exam, at a glance

Direct from the Kentucky Board of Cosmetology and the PSI (NIC exam) candidate bulletin.

Required Hours
750 hrs
Exam Provider
PSI (NIC exam)
Exam Format
written + practical
Passing Score
75%
Minimum Age
16
Renewal
Every 1 year
CE Hours
6
Reciprocity
Yes

Source: Kentucky Board of Cosmetology

PSI (NIC exam) topic breakdown for Kentucky

Your SGS dashboard tracks your score in each of these categories so you know exactly where to study.

How SGS gets Kentucky students over the passing line

The tools students use every night in the 30 days before their test.

The Final Look
Full-length mock exam built on the PSI (NIC exam) topic map above. Every wrong answer is tagged back to the category so your weak areas surface fast.
Practice Tests
Chapter-by-chapter quizzes. Scoreboards + streaks so it doesn't feel like a textbook.
Flash & Know
Spaced-repetition flashcards. 15 minutes a night covers a full chapter.
The Board Game
Category-style trivia. Turns review into addictive play so studying doesn't feel like studying.

FAQ — Kentucky esthetics licensing

What score do I need to pass the Kentucky esthetics state board exam?

Kentucky uses the PSI (NIC exam) exam, which requires 75% or higher to pass. Practicing at least 10% above that on SGS mock exams is the sweet spot students who pass on the first try hit.

How many hours are required for esthetics licensing in Kentucky?

Kentucky requires 750 training hours for esthetics, along with completing the PSI (NIC exam) exam (written + practical). Minimum age is 16.

How does SGS align with the PSI (NIC exam) exam content?

Every SGS practice question is mapped to the same topic categories PSI (NIC exam) uses: Scientific Concepts (Infection Control, Anatomy, Chemistry); Skin Care and Services (Facials, Treatments, Hair Removal). Your progress dashboard shows which categories you're strong in and which need work before test day.

Can I study on my phone?

Yes. SGS works in any mobile browser — no app install required. Flashcards, practice tests, and The Final Look exam all work on iPhone, Android, and tablet. Save your seat in The Lounge to sync progress across devices.

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Three study tips specific to Kentucky

  1. Dedicate extra study time to Scientific Concepts. With 55% of your exam score riding on Infection Control, Anatomy, and Chemistry, this isn't an area to skim. Master the basics here, especially disinfection protocols and skin structure.
  2. Practice recognizing skin conditions based on anatomical knowledge. The Services section is 45% of your exam, and knowing how different conditions manifest will be key for effective treatments. Think beyond just the steps of a facial; understand *why* you're doing them.
  3. Don't neglect the chemistry of products. While part of Scientific Concepts, understanding ingredient functions and interactions directly impacts your ability to perform safe and effective skin care services. This connection will serve you well across both major sections.

A common mistake Kentucky candidates make

A frequent stumble for Kentucky esthetics candidates is underestimating the depth required for Scientific Concepts, especially Infection Control. Many focus heavily on practical service steps, but PSI's emphasis on 55% for Scientific Concepts means you need to know the *why* behind every sanitation and sterilization procedure, not just the *how*. Don't just memorize steps; understand the classifications of disinfectants, common pathogens, and transmission routes. This foundational knowledge is critical for both passing the exam and practicing safely.

Seven-day countdown checklist

  1. Day 7: Review all your notes on Scientific Concepts, especially Infection Control and Anatomy. Focus on areas you found challenging initially.
  2. Day 6: Do a full practice exam, timing yourself. Identify any weak spots across both Scientific Concepts and Skin Care Services.
  3. Day 5: Revisit your weakest areas from the practice exam. For most Kentucky candidates, this will likely be in Scientific Concepts.
  4. Day 4: Review all product chemistry notes. Understand common active ingredients and their functions for various skin types.
  5. Day 3: Go over all facial and treatment protocols. Visualize each step, focusing on safety and client consultation aspects.
  6. Day 2: Light review of all topics, focusing on areas you feel less confident about. Pack your bag for test day.
  7. Day 1: Relax! Get a good night's sleep. Avoid cramming new information. Trust your preparation.

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