CIA International Students Admissions Requirements
Requirements for All Students
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Ready to get started on your exciting culinary journey? First, create your online account and complete the application form. We’re here to help international students with the admissions process. All students follow the same CIA admission procedures, with two additional requirements for international students.
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Additional Requirements for International Students
Requirement Number One (1)—
The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL):
All instruction at The Culinary Institute of America is in English. If your native
language is other than English, you will be required to show proficiency in the
English language. The Test of English as a Foreign
Language (TOEFL) should be part of your application file. There are two types
of TOEFL that we accept:
- IBT – Internet-based
test
We require a score of 80 with a minimum score of 20 on
each section. This is the most common test and the CIA-preferred exam.
- PBT – Paper-based
test
We require a score of 550.
Other accepted tests:
IELTS
International English
Language Testing System (IELTS) exam with a score of 6.0.
PTE Academic
Pearson Language Test (PTE) with a score
of 53.
International Student
Provisional Acceptance for Language Instruction:
In lieu of the TOEFL score, you may also enroll and complete
a program at an ELS Language Center. We accept completion of this program up to
level 112. You must submit a certificate of successful completion from ELS to the
CIA.
Requirement Number Two (2)—
Financial Support:
You are required to obtain a Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility), and must show
proof of financial support that includes:
- Declaration of Financial
Intent (PDF) from your sponsor.
- Original bank statement or bank letter showing proof of funds
for one academic year (U.S. $42,000).
All documents must be in English or translated into English with the original copies.
Visa Requirements
