👋 Hi!
I'm Nikyla Jay Beliveau.
Founder & Educator at Claws for Applause Nail Academy.
After seeing how expensive traditional nail schools had become, I created a top-tier, affordable online academy designed to help aspiring nail technicians become certified and learn professional skills without thousands of dollars in student debt... My educational content has been viewed over 8 million times!
I've helped thousands of people learn new nail techniques, improve their skills, and take the next step toward a career in the nail industry.
What are you waiting for?
Why pay more for the same certification?
Become a Certified Nail Technician Online for Just $297 CAD launch special, regularly $497.
✔ Learn from home
✔ Lifetime access
✔ Your practical assessments are graded by a real instructor
✔ Covers Gel, Acrylic, Dip, Nail Art, Pedicures & Business Foundations
You can become a Certified Nail Technician. Without the $3,800+ Student Debt.
🎓 Complete Master Certification Program (Full Gel, Acrylic, & Professional Prep)
🎨 Premium Modules Included: Viral Nail Art, Dipping Systems, & Advanced Spa Pedicures (Most schools charge $300+ extra per module!) At CLAWS for Applause you receive these additional modules FREE! Plus a certificate of completion for each module.
📦 Pay-As-You-Go Kits: No massive upfront supply bills. You don't need tools until Unit 11, our supply list is incredibly affordable too.
👩🏫 Personal Master Instructor Feedback: Submit photos/videos of your practice sets for real, direct technical grading and guidance.
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How long does the course take?
4 - 12 weeks.
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Do I need experience?
No, you don't need any experience.
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Will I receive a certificate?
Yes, you'll receive multiple beautiful certificates along the way for you to proudly display.
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Is there instructor support?
Absolutely, 24/7
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What supplies do I need?
You won't need supplies until unit 11, you can purchase supplies as you need them, the list can be found inside the student portal.
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Can I study while working full-time?
You sure can, this course is designed for you to work at your own pace and you get lifetime access to the course.
Why choose CLAWS for Applause?
What makes us stand out is the affordability of our program. Pedicure, nail business foundations and nail art modules are included in our Nail Technician course, we offer lifetime access to all course content and materials, along with the ability to earn a Certificate upon completion.
What you need to legally open a salon or secure professional beauty liability insurance is a Professional Certificate of Completion from a recognized training institution. CLAWS for Applause Nail Academy is a private technical training program. Our curriculum is structurally identical to traditional $3,800 schools, except our course costs $297. Covering full nail anatomy, sanitation protocols, chemistry, and technical applications (Gel, Acrylic, and Dipping).
We are classified as a verified certification program. To graduate, you must submit detailed photo/video evidence of your practical work at the end of each practical module. I personally evaluate and grade your technique, apex placement, and safety measures.
Once you pass your final certification exam, you'll recieve your beautiful Master Nail Technician certificate which you can use to buy professional-grade supplies, secure business insurance, and confidently service paying clients!
Testimonials
I just finished the Certified Nail Technician course and I am so glad I chose CLAWS for Applause! The curriculum is incredibly detailed. I was really nervous about Unit 8 (E-File Fundamentals), but the step-by-step breakdown made it so easy to understand. Going through the different modules—from Builder Gel to Acrylic—gave me the confidence to handle any client request. The practical assessments really make sure you have the technique down before you move forward. Highly recommend this academy to anyone serious about starting their nail career!
Ben Wood, Chicago
I wanted a course that took safety and science seriously, not just pretty nail art. The early units on Nail Anatomy & Disorders and Workspace/Tool Maintenance really set the standard for proper infection control. The transition from basic gel polish application to complex refills and troubleshooting was perfectly paced. By the time I took the final Certification Exam, I felt 100% prepared. Thank you for providing such a high-quality education!
Oliver Hartman, Alberta
Finding an affordable nail program that fits around a busy schedule is tough, but CLAWS for Applause nailed it. The course layout is so organized and easy to navigate. I loved that it didn't just teach me how to apply product, but also included Module 14 on Nail Business Foundations. Learning the business side alongside manicures and pedicures gave me a massive head start. It's accessible, flexible, and completely worth the investment!
Emma Thompson, Melb