Meribindiya International Academy vs. VLCC Institute
Meribindiya International Academy vs. VLCC Institute: Which Beauty Academy Should You Choose
Table Of Contents
India’s booming beauty and wellness industry offers exciting career opportunities, making the choice of a training academy crucial. Meribindiya International Academy and VLCC Institute are two leading institutions, each with unique strengths. This article compares them based on reputation, course offerings, fees, placements, faculty, and accessibility to help you decide.
Reputation and Recognition
Meribindiya International Academy has earned a stellar reputation, winning the Best Beauty School in India award from the International Beauty Expert (IBE) for five years (2020–2024). Endorsed by celebrities like Hina Khan and Anupam Kher, it’s affiliated with International CIDESCO and offers NSDC-approved courses, ensuring globally recognized certifications. Students from Australia, Canada, and South Africa highlight its international appeal.
VLCC Institute, founded in 1989 by Vandana Luthra, is a trusted name with 300 locations across 143 cities and 12 countries. Its government-approved courses and international curriculum, backed by research, cement its legacy. However, its recognition leans more on brand history than recent awards.
Verdict: Meribindiya’s recent accolades and global certifications make it ideal for modern, internationally focused training. VLCC’s established brand appeals to those valuing legacy and reach.
Course Offerings
Meribindiya offers Certification, Diploma, Advanced Diploma, and Master’s courses in makeup, hair, nails, skin, cosmetology, eyelash extensions, microblading, and more. Small batches (10–12 students) ensure personalized attention and hands-on practice with live clients, catering to beginners and advanced learners.
VLCC Institute provides over 100 courses, including diplomas, certificates, and master’s in beauty, makeup, hair, skin, and nutrition. It offers professional, degree, and online options, updated annually by experts. Larger batch sizes may limit individualized attention compared to Meribindiya.
Verdict: Meribindiya excels in personalized, practical training, while VLCC’s diverse catalog and online courses suit those seeking flexibility.
Fees and Affordability
Meribindiya is budget-friendly, with fees lower than many top academies. It offers financial aid, discounts, and course kits, reducing additional costs. Exact fees vary by course but are competitive.
VLCC’s fees range from INR 45,000 to INR 6 lakhs, with makeup courses (1–2 months) being cheaper and cosmetology programs (up to 15 months) costing INR 3–5 lakhs. Flexible payment options are available, but higher costs may deter some.
Verdict: Meribindiya is more affordable, making it accessible for budget-conscious students. VLCC’s higher fees reflect its extensive infrastructure.
Placement and Internship Opportunities
Meribindiya guarantees 100% job placement for select courses (e.g., Makeup, Cosmetology, Nail Technician) and offers internships for all programs, providing real-client experience. Graduates secure roles in salons, fashion, and media, with lifetime membership for ongoing support.
VLCC provides placement assistance but no job guarantees. Success varies by branch, and students may need to seek jobs independently. Internship programs are not explicitly mentioned, potentially limiting practical exposure.
Verdict: Meribindiya’s guaranteed placements and internships make it a stronger choice for career-focused students. VLCC’s placement support is less certain.
Faculty and Training Quality
Meribindiya’s highly qualified trainers offer personalized guidance in small batches, emphasizing practical training with live clients.
VLCC employs skilled trainers with a balanced theoretical-practical approach. Its curriculum is updated annually, but feedback is mixed, with some branches receiving criticism for inconsistent quality due to larger batches.
Verdict: Meribindiya’s personalized, practical focus ensures consistent quality. VLCC’s training is solid but varies by branch.
Accessibility and Locations
Meribindiya International Academy operates only two branches:Noida (Sector 27) and Delhi (Rajouri Garden). This limited presence may inconvenience students outside Delhi-NCR, but the focused approach ensures high-quality training.
VLCC Institute has branches in 75 cities across India, including Delhi, Gurgaon, and Mumbai, making it highly accessible. Key Delhi branches include Lajpat Nagar and Gurgaon (Sector 18), with easy metro access.
Final Recommendation
Meribindiya International Academy is the better choice for students prioritizing affordable fees, guaranteed placements, personalized training, and international certifications. Its small batch sizes, hands-on practice, and lifetime membership make it ideal for career-driven individuals in Delhi-NCR.
VLCC Institute suits those who value brand recognition, flexible course formats, and accessibility across India. Its extensive network and online options are ideal for students seeking variety and convenience, despite higher fees and less certain placements.
