Frequently asked questions
Everything about the ESR School of Color programs. Can't find your answer? Ask an advisor.
Do I need any experience?
No. The Certification starts with color theory and builds step by step. Stylists, image consultants, hairdressers and makeup artists progress faster, but complete beginners are welcome.
What is ESR?
ESR (École Supérieure de Relooking) is an image consulting school founded in Paris in 2010. It trains image consultants in 9 countries and is certified Qualiopi, the French national quality certification for training organizations. The ESR School of Color is its online color analysis program for the US.
What is the ESR Personal Color Analysis® method?
It is ESR's structured method for color analysis. The analyst first identifies the client's dominant characteristic (warm, cool, deep, light, vivid or muted) with the T.R.I.™ draping protocol, then refines it to one of 12 seasons and builds a personal palette for clothing, makeup, hair color and accessories.
Is the course taught in English?
Yes. All videos, live masterclasses, course materials and the Paris practice days are in English.
When are the live classes?
Live masterclasses are scheduled for US time zones. Every session is recorded, so you can catch up if you miss one.
How long does the Certification take?
10 weeks, with about 4 to 6 hours of work per week: short video lessons, one live masterclass or practice session, and an exercise to hand in.
How much does it cost?
Color Essentials is $297. The ESR Certified Color Analyst program is $3,900 (or 6 monthly payments of $690), professional draping kit included. The Paris Master Certification is $6,900 (or 6 monthly payments of $1,200), travel not included.
Is the draping kit included?
Yes. The professional ESR draping kit is included in the Certification and the Paris Master Certification, and shipped to your US address before the draping module.
What do I receive at the end?
After passing the final evaluation (case studies and a recorded analysis), you receive the ESR Certified Color Analyst certificate. It is a private school certification, not a state license.
Do I need a license to work as a color analyst in the US?
Color analysis itself is generally not a licensed profession, because you advise rather than apply products. Business registration rules apply, and some states regulate makeup application for pay. Check the rules of your state before opening your business.
Can I work virtually?
Yes. The business module covers both in-person and virtual sessions: how to organize them, their limits, and how to price them.
Your season names are slightly different. Why?
The ESR method uses its own vocabulary. “Intense” corresponds to what other systems call “Bright”, and “Muted” to what others call “Soft”. You will learn to translate between systems, which is useful when clients were analyzed elsewhere.
How does the Essentials credit work?
If you join the Certification within 90 days of buying Color Essentials, the full $297 is deducted from your tuition.
Can I add the Paris practice days later?
Yes. You can upgrade from the Certification to the Paris Master Certification after your online training, depending on available dates.
What is the refund policy?
The Certification comes with a 14-day peace-of-mind guarantee: if within 14 days of starting you feel it is not for you, return the kit unused and you receive a full refund. See the terms of sale for details.
How do I pay?
Online by card through Stripe, a secure payment platform. Payment plans are available for the Certification and the Paris Master Certification.
Be among the first ESR-certified color analysts in the US.
The founding cohort is limited to groups of 12 students. Enroll now or talk to an advisor to find the right program.