Who should apply to the Academy?

The most successful Academy graduates have a passion for fashion, an eye for style, a need to express their creativity, and excellent people skills.  They have a desire to be an image consultant, fashion consultant or personal shopper and help individuals be the best they can be.  You do not need a portfolio to enroll.

What type of certification do I receive from the Academy and how does it prepare me for a career in image consulting or personal shopping?

The Sterling Style Academy is a training program that prepares you to properly execute a makeover consultation as well as educates you on how to position yourself as an expert. As a graduate of the Sterling Style Academy, you will receive a certificate acknowledging successful completion of the program enabling you to begin your own consulting business or perhaps become a Global Image Group consultant. This program will also prepare you for AICI’s first level certification examination.

Are you an academically accredited institution?

Sterling Style Academy is a privately-held institution.  We are the fashion school division of Global Image Group, a worldwide image consulting firm comprised of a select team of top-notch image, fashion and style consultants with proven track records.

Am I too young/too old to begin a career in image consulting?

Typically, our students have a college education and some corporate work experience, or are currently attending college. These men and women range in age from 18 – 55, with an average age of 25 – 40.

What does my investment include?

You are enrolled in our training programs upon completing the registration form.  Upon receipt of your registration form, we will send you a welcome package outlining the logistics of the training program, suggestions on where to stay, a detailed agenda, and much more.  Your investment does not include air fare, transportation, personal expenses, school supplies or meals. Students should budget an additional US $850 per month.

When and where will the courses be held?

You will receive a total of 20 tuition hours/week, with full-day classes held Monday through Friday. Fridays are clinic days where you will be working independently with your classmates and the instructor may not be in session. Our training programs will be held at Global Image Group office locations worldwide unless otherwise noted in your welcome package.  For detailed schedules, please view the courses page.  We recommend individuals travel on Sunday, arrive by 5 p.m., and schedule their departure after 6 p.m. on Friday or for the following day.

Do we need to take the courses all at once?

No, as long as you take them in order. You are welcome to take our training programs to fit your schedule.  However completion of Image Consultant Course 1.1, 2.1, 3.1 and 4.1 is necessary to receive certification.

Is there a time limit to complete the classes to receive certification?

No, you can complete the program in your timeframe. Upon successful completion of all courses (Image Consulting 1.1, 2.1, and 3.1 and 4.1), you will receive a certificate.

Do you offer home study courses?

As of September 2005, we offer online eLearning home study courses. For more information, please review the online image consultant certification program.

Do you offer private one-on-one training?

If you are unable to attend one of our 4-week training programs, you may request one-on-one training for specific dates, list the programs of interest to you, and we will review your request.  One-on-one training is offered on a case-by-case basis at various locations and at a premium.

Why should I enroll in the Sterling Style Academy versus other institutions?

Value. You get more at the Sterling Style Academy than what you pay for. Our goal is to educate and produce top-notch image consultants and personal shoppers. Therefore, Sterling Style Academy offers affordable one-week courses for US $1797. When you register for the 4-Week Certification Program you save approximately US$750.

Do you offer Financial Aid, Loans, or Grants?

We do not offer financial aid, loans or grants.  All tuition must be paid in full in prior to the commencement of all courses.

What is the cancellation policy?

The Sterling Style Academy offers multiple training programs throughout the year. Therefore, if you are unable to attend due to illness, personal or professional commitments, or sudden obligations, you may transfer your enrollment to another date and location.  We are unable to issue refunds for any reason.

The Sterling Style Academy reserves the right to cancel the course if the minimum number of participants is not met and will issue a full tuition refund or provide other training alternatives.

Do I need a Visa?

Please check with your local embassy or passport agency. We generally recommend that you come into the United States on a tourist visa.