Which of the following statements about student practice during training is accurate?

The statement that students may practice on patrons only under instruction is accurate because it aligns with the safety and educational guidelines set forth by the Mississippi State Board of Cosmetology. This requirement ensures that students receive proper oversight and guidance from qualified instructors while they are gaining hands-on experience. Supervised instruction is crucial for students to learn the correct techniques and safety protocols, ultimately leading to better outcomes for both the students and their patrons.

In a training environment, the emphasis is on learning and developing skills under the watchful eye of experienced professionals. This supervision not only supports the student's practical education but also helps mitigate risks associated with providing services to the public, ensuring that patrons receive quality care.

The other options do not accurately reflect the regulations or best practices for student training in cosmetology. For example, practicing without supervision could lead to unsafe practices and a lack of quality control. Working only in pairs may limit the opportunity for individual learning and could be counterproductive in a training environment. While students are encouraged to practice their skills, the priority is always on safety, supervision, and gaining meaningful feedback from instructors, rather than merely performing as many services as possible.