Education & Training
- Training including tuition, related fees and required textbooks
- Occupational tools and equipment
- Tutor, reader and note-taker services
- Work readiness training
Home / ACCES-VR Program
ACCES-VR FundingACCES-VR: Barber Training Funded for New Yorkers with Disabilities
Adult Career and Continuing Education Services – Vocational Rehabilitation (ACCES-VR), a division of the New York State Education Department, can cover tuition, tools and supplies for qualifying students at American Barber Institute.
$0Tuition possible for eligible clients
NYSEDA New York State Education Dept program
6Application languages available
The Program
What ACCES-VR Can Do for You
For many aspiring barbers, the path to a state license is blocked by cost. ACCES-VR removes that barrier — supporting individuals with disabilities in obtaining and maintaining employment, and covering the cost of education for eligible clients. ABI students funded through ACCES-VR have gone on to become accomplished barbers, shop owners and instructors.
Counseling & Support
- Vocational counseling, guidance and assessments
- Rehabilitation technology
- Special transportation & adaptive driver training
- Physical and mental restoration services
Career & Beyond
- Job development, placement and coaching
- Work try-out & on-the-job training
- Goods, equipment and supplies for self-employment
- Occupational and business licenses
Eligibility
Who Qualifies & How to Apply
ACCES-VR applications are available in English, Chinese, Haitian-Creole, Italian, Russian and Spanish. Our admissions team can help you understand the referral process before you apply.
Check Your Eligibility
Applicants must have a disability that affects their ability to work, be eligible for employment in the United States after their education, reside in New York State, be at least 14 years old and be able to participate in vocational rehabilitation services.
Not sure? Ask usApply Through ACCES-VR
Visit the official ACCES-VR website or the Manhattan ACCES-VR office at 116 West 32 Street, Fifth Floor, NY, NY 10001 (by appointment). Full program details are at acces.nysed.gov/vr.
acces.nysed.gov/vrTrain at ABI
Once approved, complete the 500-Hour Master Barber Program — hands-on training, adaptive support and an inclusive learning environment, with job placement guidance, resume building and interview preparation after you graduate.
Explore the program
Common Questions
ACCES-VR FAQs
Does ACCES-VR really pay for barber school?
Yes — for eligible clients, ACCES-VR covers the cost of education, including tuition, related fees, required textbooks, and occupational tools and equipment, removing the financial barriers to training.
What languages can I apply in?
Applications for ACCES-VR services are available in English, Chinese, Haitian-Creole, Italian, Russian and Spanish.
Does support end when school ends?
No. ACCES-VR services extend to job development and placement, work try-outs, on-the-job training, job coaching — and even equipment, supplies and licenses for self-employment if you plan to open your own shop.
Are there other ways to fund my training?
Yes — see our financial aid overview. Veterans may qualify for GI Bill® benefits, and every student can use ABI's weekly payment plans from $150 per week.
An Inclusive Path Forward
Start Your ACCES-VR Journey at ABI
Our admissions team assists with the ACCES-VR referral process every day. Call (212) 290-2289 (English), (212) 290-0278 (Español) or (718) 676-0640 (Bronx) and let's map out your path to a Master Barber License.