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:

1. 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.
2. 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.

CAE Exam
Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) exam with an overall score of 180 and a minimum score of 175 in each section.

International Student Conditional Acceptance for Language Instruction:

In lieu of an English Proficiency exam, you may also enroll and complete a program from one of our approved language schools. Learn More >

Requirement Number Two (2)—
Financial Support:

Students must show proof of financial support that includes:

• Declaration of Financial Intent (PDF) from your sponsor.
• Official CIA Bank Certification (PDF), OR original bank statement or bank letter showing proof of funds for one academic year (U.S. $45,000).

All documents must be in English or translated into English with the original copies.