BECOME CIDESCO CertifiED

the CIDESCO Certification Process:

At Avenue Five Institute, we’re committed to providing a pathway to excellence in the Esthetics and Nail Technology industry. Achieving a CIDESCO Certificate/Diploma signifies a pinnacle of expertise and dedication. Here’s how you can embark on this prestigious journey:

In order to qualify to sit for the CIDESCO exam, all candidates must complete the following. There are different requirements for recent graduates and alumni. If you have graduated within the preceding 12 months from Avenue Five Institute, you are eligible to apply as follows:

The CIDESCO process involves a project with case histories, a written exam, and a practical exam.

Skin Care Diploma:

  • Completion of Required Hours: Students must fulfill 730 hours of training at a CIDESCO-accredited school, such as Avenue Five Institute.
  • Eligibility: Graduates of Avenue Five Institute’s Esthetics program are eligible to take the CIDESCO Exam.

  • Project: Candidates undertake a comprehensive project in which one needs to pick a theme of treatment to present. (Download Project Guidelines) 
    • The number of words will need to be from 2,000-3,000 words in English.
    • You will need to include a front cover with your theme title, name, and number of characters/words. 
    • Page numbers will need to be added to each page.
    • The Project must be typed up on a computer. 
    • Illustrations and photos can be included as long as they stay on 8.5×11 sized paper.
    • Presentation of your project counts towards your overall grade. 

CIDESCO Examination Timelines:

CIDESCO exams are offered once a year.

2027 exam session

    • CIDESCO Exam Application Deadline: November 30, 2026

    • School Grading: December 

    • 1st Bootcamp: February 

    • 2nd Bootcamp/Written Exam: April 

    • Practical Exam: May

The scheduled CIDESCO examination timeline is tentative and subject to change. A minimum of six (6) qualified candidates must submit their applications by the deadline date in order for the examination to proceed as scheduled.

  • Portfolio of Evidence: a collection of documented work that demonstrates your practical skills throughout your program.

    • Compulsory Booklets and Completed Log need to be included.

If you are ready to apply click here to apply.

Manicures and Pedicure Certificate:

  • Completion of Required Hours: Students must fulfill 160 hours of training at a CIDESCO-accredited school, such as Avenue Five Institute.
  • Eligibility: Graduates of Avenue Five Institute’s Nail Technology program are eligible to take the CIDESCO Exam.

  • Assignments: Candidates are required to complete two written Assignments on the following 2 subjects: 1) Health & Safety and 2) Consultation. 

    • Each Assignment should be 500 words.

    • Candidates must also include a list of references, bibliography, websites researched, and other reading material.

  • Case Studies: These documents show that a student can apply theory, technique, and professional standards consistently with real life models. This includes.

If you are ready to apply click here to apply. 

CIDESCO Diploma Perks:

  • Industry Recognition: A CIDESCO diploma is highly esteemed within the esthetics sector and is acknowledged by employers globally.

  • No Expiry: CIDESCO diplomas do not have an expiration date, ensuring the longevity of your certification.

CIDESCO Exam Fees:

To streamline your enrollment, all certification costs are bundled into a single fee. Your one-time payment covers everything you need to get started:

  • Application Fee ($150): Covers the administrative review of your application.

  • CIMA Exam Prep Course ($49): Grants you full access to the preparatory course materials.

  • Exam Boot Camp Admission ($200): Secures a spot in our intensive pre-exam workshop.

  • CIDESCO Exam Fees (~$350): We handle the payment of your exam fees directly to the credentialing body.

Total CIDESCO Exam Fees: $749.00

Payment Options: Payment can be made on campus with your Campus Director.

Terms and Conditions: Full prepayment of all fees is required to finalize your registration. The $150 application fee portion of your payment is non-refundable upon payment. If your application is denied, you will be refunded the total amount paid less this application fee. Upon approval, all remaining fees become non-refundable as we immediately commit funds to third-party exam registration. Boot camp admission is non-refundable, even in cases of non-attendance. While our exam preparatory programs are designed for your success, the school cannot guarantee a passing exam score and graduates are responsible for all fees associated with re-testing or attending additional boot camps.

Optional CIDESCO Exam at Avenue five:

While Avenue Five Institute facilitates CIDESCO exams, participation remains optional. However, seizing this opportunity can significantly elevate your professional standing and open doors to esteemed career prospects.

Embark on your journey to CIDESCO certification with Avenue Five Institute, where excellence meets opportunity. Unlock your potential and shape a thriving career in the dynamic world of esthetics or Nail Technology.

For more information on CIDESCO certification, please email us at: [email protected]

avenue five institute entrance

Which location is best for you?

North Austin

Our North Austin beauty school is located at 8620 Burnet Rd Suite 300. Our beauty school in North Austin is a great option for those living in Westover Hills, or planning to commute from the surrounding areas. For example we have students from Round Rock, Pflugerville, Cedar Park, or nearby areas like Lakeway, Liberty Hill, and Manor.

At the North Austin campus we offer programs in cosmetologyestheticsbarbering, and nail technology. We also provide flexible class schedules, including morning, afternoon, and evening options, perfect for working adults.

South Austin

Our South Austin beauty school is located at 500 E Ben White Blvd Suite 100. This campus is a great option for those living in central and South Austin as well as the surrounding areas. For example we have students from Kyle, Buda, San Marcos, and Dripping Springs, as well as Lockhart and Bastrop.

At the South Austin campus we offer programs in cosmetologyestheticsbarbering, and nail technology. We provide the perfect setting for those seeking a flexible and accessible education.

Frequently asked questions

Want to learn more about how a CIDESCO certification can enhance your training? See our FAQ below:

How can we help you?