Apply for Financial Aid

Four women are standing together, smiling, and laughing while interacting with an object that one of them is holding. They appear to be in a casual indoor setting, possibly a gymnasium or community center.

How to Apply

Securing financial aid to help pay for your CIA education is easy. Our goal is to set you on your food career path as soon as possible! Our team is here to guide you through the financial planning process and answer any questions you may have. Here’s where you start:

Step 1: Apply for admission to the CIA.

Step 2: Apply for financial aid.

  • File your FAFSA.
    All United States citizens should file a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (or “FAFSA,” a word you’ll get to know well) at studentaid.gov or by using the myStudentAid app. The CIA’s federal code is 007304. When you have received a Student Aid Report (SAR) from the federal processing center, you’ll know that your application has been processed and the review procedure can begin.
  • Provide additional information.
    The CIA may request additional documentation, such as copies of your (or your parents’) IRS federal tax transcripts. Learn more about verification.
  • Time it right.
    File your FAFSA at least five to six months prior to the CIA enrollment season for which you are applying. If desired, you can contact CIA Student Financial and Registration Services to be sure of filing the appropriate forms for your entry date.
  • Avoid mistakes.
    Check out these helpful tips to avoid common errors when completing the FAFSA as well as some additional tips for unique financial situations.
  • Rely on us.
    Upon completion of the financial aid forms and receipt of the requested documentation, the CIA will evaluate your existing aid package to ensure all federal and institutional funds listed are accurate and available to you. If you have any questions along the way, we’ll help you find the answers. Call 845-451-1500 or e-mail [email protected].
  • Learn more.
    Read more about the types of financial aid available to CIA students.

Step 3: Check out which other financial aid programs are available.

  • In addition to what’s in your financial aid package, you should explore other forms of aid to reduce costs further. We’ll point you in the right direction to locate external funding opportunities, such as external scholarships and alternative loans.

Step 4: Review the costs.

Financial Aid Questions?

Get Video Answers!

Also in this section

Avoid These FAFSA Errors

Mistakes happen. But to ensure the best possible financial aid awards, it’s important for you (or your parents) to avoid these common errors when completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Paying for College

Let’s Get You Here. Our skilled advisors are ready to partner with you, every step of the way, to help you meet your education expenses.

Learn About Tuition

Since the cost of attending the CIA varies by campus and program, tuition and fees associated with each campus is listed below.

Code of Conduct

The Culinary Institute of America (CIA) prohibits a conflict of interest with the responsibilities of an officer, employee, or agent of the CIA regarding Title IV loans.

Forms and Publications

Download These Financial Aid Resources

Tutorial Videos

Video Answers 24/7

Student Financial and Registration Services

Hyde Park, NY 12538