COLLEGE VALUE

(6) Choose a college that offers superior value, backed by a complete financial aid program.

Look for a clear description of tuition and other education expenses as an indicator of institutional quality and integrity.

• The CIA believes prospective students should be fully informed about education costs, and provides CIA cost information on our Web site, as well as in our application booklet, financial aid brochure, and college catalog. You will find that quality providers of educational programs freely disclose such information.

You are investing in higher education. Superior value ultimately means superior career potential. Choose the program that offers the educational experience that gives you industry access to maximize your career opportunity.

• You might think CIA excellence costs more, but it doesn't. Our costs are competitive with similar institutions; it's just our results that set us apart. Your CIA education will give you the skills and industry connections that will make all the difference throughout your career.

Look for a professional, experienced financial aid staff ready to address your needs.

• The staff in the CIA's Financial Aid Office has more than 100 years of combined financial aid experience. Many have been through the process in their personal lives as well, so they really understand how overwhelming the process can seem at first. You can be sure that each one is committed to helping you obtain all the aid you are entitled to in a caring and professional manner.

Look for the availability of college scholarships to supplement federal and state programs.

• The CIA offers a full range of aid options to those who qualify, including both merit- and need-based scholarships. Some, such as the Cream of the Crop, and High Impact Leader Scholarships are available at the time you enroll. You can learn about others once you're here, in the weekly Financial Aid Bulletin, which announces opportunities to earn the many scholarships available to current CIA students. About 90% of CIA students receive aid in the form of scholarships, grants, loans, and Work-Study opportunities. Call us at 845-451-1243 for help with your college financial planning.

Select a program that provides continuing support for each year of study, not just the first year.

• Be careful when evaluating financial aid awards from various schools. Some may offer an attractive, one-time aid package that applies only to the first year. At the CIA, you can rest assured that our financial aid staff will make every effort to keep your aid at the same level each year, given your financial situation doesn't change significantly and you meet applicable academic requirements.

Final Thoughts:

• The Culinary Institute of America is the premier culinary college for aspiring culinarians. We encourage you to learn as much as you can about us to determine if we're the best fit for you and your career goals. Browse our Web site and talk with our graduates (the Alumni Affairs Office can put you in touch). Participate in our on-line open house or sign up for a regional reception.  Better yet, visit our Hyde Park, NY campus, and see how quickly you'll get caught up in the energy and excitement of the CIA! If food is your passion, the CIA is ready to prepare you for your culinary career.