Starting university means new experiences, new friends, and a fresh start—including how you present yourself. Whether you're heading to University of Ottawa or Carleton University, finding the right barbershop near campus can make all the difference in your confidence and success as a student.
As Ottawa's most experienced barbershop serving students for over six decades, we understand what matters most: quality cuts that last, reasonable pricing for student budgets, and professional results that work for everything from campus life to job interviews.
Why Barbershop Choice Matters for University Success
Your appearance impacts everything from first impressions in class to confidence during job interviews. The right barbershop becomes part of your university support system, helping you maintain a professional image throughout your academic journey while respecting your student budget and busy schedule.
Ottawa's Best Barbershops for University Students
We've evaluated Ottawa's barbershop landscape specifically for University of Ottawa and Carleton University students, considering location accessibility, student-friendly pricing, quality, and understanding of student life demands.
1. Professional Barbershop Ottawa ⭐ #1 Choice for Students
Professional Barbershop Ottawa - 65 Years of Excellence
Location: 617 Somerset St W, Ottawa, ON K1R 6C7
Distance: 15 minutes from uOttawa | 25 minutes from Carleton via OC Transpo
Why We're Ottawa's Premier Student Barbershop: With 65 years of history serving Ottawa, we've been cutting hair for generations of students. Our clientele spans Ontario and Quebec, including countless university graduates who started as freshmen and continue visiting decades later.
What Makes Us Special for Students:
- 65+ Years of Expertise - We've been perfecting our craft since before your parents were born
- Generational Trust - Families across Ontario and Quebec choose us for professional results
- Student-Focused Service - We understand tight budgets and busy schedules
- Professional Results - Cuts that work for campus, internships, and job interviews
- Men's Grooming Specialists - Expert haircuts, beard trims, and complete grooming services
- Long-lasting Quality - Our cuts stay fresh for weeks, saving you money
Perfect For: Students who want professional, reliable results from Ottawa's most experienced barbershop. Ideal for those preparing for co-op interviews, graduate school applications, or anyone wanting to maintain a polished appearance throughout university.
Student Success Stories: We've helped countless students land their first internships, impress at job fairs, and build confidence throughout their university journey. Many of our student clients become lifelong customers, continuing to visit us well into their professional careers.
Services: Men's haircuts, precision fades, beard trimming and shaping, complete grooming consultations
Booking: Visit professionalbarbershop.setmore.com or call to schedule your appointment.
2. Arte Barbershop - Baseline Road
Location: 780 Baseline Rd Unit 6, Ottawa, ON K2C 3V8
Distance: 20 minutes from Carleton | 30 minutes from uOttawa
Why Carleton Students Choose It: Located near Carleton University, Arte offers modern cuts with social media appeal. The clean, upscale environment attracts students who want Instagram-ready results.
Student Benefits:
- Student discount available - Show your student ID
- Modern styling - Trendy cuts that photograph well
- Skilled barbers - Particularly strong with fades and tapers
- Carleton proximity - Easy access for south Ottawa students
3. The Hare & Hound Barbershop
Location: 432 1/2 Preston St, Ottawa, ON K1S 4N4
Distance: 10 minutes from uOttawa | 25 minutes from Carleton
Appeal to Students: This historic Preston Street shop (operating since the 1930s) combines classic barbering tradition with modern techniques. Located in Little Italy with excellent transit connections.
Why Students Like It:
- Historic charm - Nearly 100 years of barbering tradition
- Central location - Easy access via multiple bus routes
- Festival specials - Discounts during Ottawa's Italian Festival
- Versatile styling - Both classic and contemporary options
4. Khalil Barbershop
Location: 1430 Prince of Wales Dr, Ottawa, ON K2C 3N6
Distance: 15 minutes from Carleton | 35 minutes from uOttawa
Student Appeal: Award-winning barbershop (Top Choice Award 2023) with a reputation for excellent fades. Popular among Carleton students for consistent quality.
Benefits:
- Award-winning quality - Proven excellence
- Fade specialists - Particularly skilled with modern fade techniques
- Comfortable atmosphere - Wi-Fi and refreshments while waiting
Why Professional Barbershop Ottawa Leads for 65+ Years
Our University of Ottawa & Carleton Legacy
Since 1960, we've been the trusted choice for Ottawa students. Our 65+ years of experience means we've perfected the art of helping young men look their best during these crucial years. We understand that your university years shape your professional image for life.
What 65 Years of Experience Means for Students
- Proven Results - We've helped thousands of students succeed in interviews, presentations, and social situations
- Adaptive Expertise - We've evolved with changing styles while maintaining timeless quality
- Student Understanding - Decades of serving university students means we know your unique needs
- Professional Network - Our reputation spans Ontario and Quebec's professional community
- Investment in Your Future - A quality cut from us is an investment in your professional image
Our Student-Specific Services
Interview Preparation: We specialize in professional cuts that photograph well and make strong impressions during co-op interviews, graduate school applications, and job fairs.
Maintenance Programs: Regular appointments timed around your academic calendar ensure you always look sharp for important events.
Style Consultation: We help you develop a signature look that evolves appropriately from freshman year through graduation and into your career.
Budget-Friendly Excellence: Our cuts last longer than cheaper alternatives, making us the most economical choice for quality-conscious students.
Student Success Tips: Making the Most of Your Barbershop Experience
Timing Your Appointments
Back-to-School Rush: Book early for September—orientation week is when everyone wants to look their best
Interview Season: Plan ahead for co-op application periods and job fairs
Major Events: Schedule before important presentations, formals, or family visits
Reading Week: Use study breaks for grooming maintenance
Budget-Smart Grooming
Invest in Quality: A professional cut lasts 4-6 weeks vs. cheap cuts needing weekly touch-ups
Regular Maintenance: Consistent appointments look better and cost less than emergency fixes
Professional Investment: Quality grooming pays dividends in internship opportunities and networking
Building Your Professional Image
Your university years are when you develop your professional presence. The right barbershop partnership helps you:
- Build Confidence - Look good, feel good, perform better
- Make Impressions - First impressions matter in academic and professional settings
- Develop Style - Evolve your look appropriately as you progress through university
- Network Successfully - Professional appearance opens doors in student organizations and beyond
Getting to Professional Barbershop from Campus
From University of Ottawa
Best Routes:
- Take Route 14 or 85 westbound to Somerset/Preston area
- Walk from downtown campus (20 minutes)
- Bike via Laurier Avenue or Somerset Street
From Carleton University
Transit Options:
- Route 85 northbound to Somerset Street
- Route 111 to Baseline, transfer to Route 14
- Combine with downtown errands for maximum efficiency
Pro Tip: Many students combine barbershop visits with shopping or dining in the Somerset/Preston area, making it a perfect study break destination.
Beyond Haircuts: Complete Men's Grooming
Our 65 years of experience extends beyond basic haircuts to complete men's grooming services that help university students present their best selves:
Precision Haircuts
Custom-tailored to your face shape, hair type, and lifestyle needs. We consider your class schedule, extracurricular activities, and professional goals.
Expert Beard Trimming & Shaping
Professional beard maintenance that complements your haircut and suits your personal style, from clean corporate looks to trendy campus styles.
Complete Grooming Consultations
We help you develop a grooming routine that works with your student budget and busy schedule while maintaining professional standards.
Student Testimonials: 65 Years of Success Stories
"I started going to Professional Barbershop as a freshman at uOttawa. The quality and consistency helped me land my dream co-op placement. Four years later, I still book my appointments there." - Michael, uOttawa Graduate
"As a Carleton engineering student, I needed a barbershop that understood professional requirements for internships. Professional Barbershop's experience showed—I got compliments at every job interview." - David, Carleton Student
"My father went there in the 80s when he was at uOttawa. Now I'm following the family tradition. Some things never go out of style—quality is one of them." - James, uOttawa Student
Special Considerations for International Students
Ottawa's universities attract students from around the world. Our 65 years of experience includes serving international students who need:
- Cultural Style Adaptation - We understand how to adapt international grooming preferences to Canadian professional standards
- Communication Excellence - Clear consultation process to ensure you get exactly what you want
- Professional Guidance - Advice on grooming standards for Canadian workplace culture
- Long-term Relationships - Many international students become lifelong clients, visiting us whenever they return to Ottawa
Start Your University Success Story with Professional Grooming
Your university years are a crucial time for developing your professional image and personal confidence. Professional Barbershop Ottawa's 65+ years of experience serving students from University of Ottawa, Carleton University, and across Ontario and Quebec means you're investing in proven expertise.
Why choose us for your university grooming needs?
- Unmatched Experience: 65+ years of helping students succeed
- Professional Results: Cuts that work for campus, interviews, and beyond
- Student Understanding: We know your budget and schedule constraints
- Generational Trust: Families across Ontario and Quebec choose us
- Complete Service: Men's haircuts, beard trimming, and grooming expertise
Ready to experience Ottawa's most trusted barbershop? Book your appointment at professionalbarbershop.setmore.com and discover why generations of students have chosen Professional Barbershop Ottawa for their grooming needs.
Located at 617 Somerset St W, Ottawa, ON K1R 6C7 - easily accessible from both University of Ottawa and Carleton University campuses.
Your university success starts with confidence. Let our 65+ years of expertise help you look and feel your best throughout your academic journey and beyond.