Financial Assistance
ACCES-VR Financial Assistance
If you have a disability, New York State's ACCES-VR program may cover your tuition at ABI — helping you launch your barber career at little or no cost.
What is ACCES-VR?
ACCES-VR (Adult Career and Continuing Education Services – Vocational Rehabilitation) is a program of the New York State Education Department. It supports individuals with disabilities in preparing for, obtaining, and maintaining employment.
Through ACCES-VR, eligible individuals can receive funding for vocational training — including barber school. This means you may be able to enroll in ABI's 500 Hour Master Barber Program with little or no out-of-pocket cost.
ABI has experience working with ACCES-VR and can help guide you through the process from start to finish.
Visit the ACCES-VR WebsiteWhat ACCES-VR May Cover
- Tuition and program fees (in most approved cases)
- Books and educational materials
- Barbering tools and supplies (case-dependent)
- Transportation assistance (case-dependent)
- Support services during training
Coverage varies based on your individualized plan and counselor approval.
Ready to Apply?
Contact ABI and we'll help you navigate the ACCES-VR application process.
Contact Admissions (212) 290-2289How to Use ACCES-VR at ABI
Follow these steps to apply for ACCES-VR funding for your barber training.
Check Your Eligibility
ACCES-VR serves individuals with physical, mental, learning, or other disabilities that create a barrier to employment. Contact your local ACCES-VR office or visit their website to determine if you qualify.
Apply to ACCES-VR
Submit an application to the New York State ACCES-VR program. You will be assigned a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (VRC) who will work with you to develop an Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE).
List ABI as Your School
Work with your VRC to include American Barber Institute in your employment plan. Our admissions team can provide all the documentation your counselor needs.
ABI Coordinates With ACCES-VR
Once approved, ABI will coordinate directly with ACCES-VR to handle tuition payments and any other covered costs. You focus on training — we handle the paperwork.
Start Your Training
Enroll in your program and begin your path to becoming a licensed Master Barber in New York — with financial barriers removed.
Common Questions
What disabilities qualify for ACCES-VR?+
ACCES-VR serves individuals with a wide range of disabilities including physical, mental health, learning disabilities, visual or hearing impairments, traumatic brain injury, and more. Eligibility is assessed on a case-by-case basis by your VR counselor.
Is there a cost to apply for ACCES-VR?+
Applying to ACCES-VR is free. There is no cost to apply or to work with a VR counselor.
How long does ACCES-VR approval take?+
Timelines vary, but the process typically takes several weeks after your initial application. We recommend starting the process as early as possible before your intended enrollment date.
Can ABI help me with the ACCES-VR process?+
Yes. Our admissions team is experienced with ACCES-VR referrals and can provide all necessary documentation to support your application. Call us and we will guide you through every step.
What if I am already receiving ACCES-VR benefits?+
If you already have an active ACCES-VR case, contact your VR counselor about adding ABI to your Individualized Plan for Employment. We can coordinate directly with your counselor.
Don't Let Finances Stop You
ABI can help you apply for ACCES-VR assistance and navigate every step of the process. Call us today to get started.
