Applying to CIA Degree Programs

How to Apply for CIA Associate and Bachelor’s Degree Programs—Except Online Bachelor’s

1. Complete the application form.

2. Request official transcripts.

• Download the Transcript Request Form (PDF) and ask your high school* and/or any postsecondary schools (colleges) you’ve attended to provide your transcripts electronically via Parchment Exchange or mail your official transcripts (not student copies) directly to the CIA Admissions Office.
• If you hold an equivalency diploma, the official test scores must be submitted. You must have met all the requirements for a high school diploma or an equivalency diploma to enroll at the CIA.

*If you have matriculated in a college-level degree program and have completed the equivalent of 24 or more credits, you are not required to submit a high school transcript. Transcripts for high school students must be complete through the 11th grade and indicate what courses you'll take in the 12th grade or show your marks for the 12th grade. See alternate Admissions requirements for homeschooled students.

3. Submit an essay.

• Submit a personal statement (200–500 words) telling us why you’re passionate about the food and hospitality industry, what experiences you have, and how you feel that your experiences have prepared you for The Culinary Institute of America. Submit your essay using our online form.

4. Ask for a recommendation.

• One character recommendation is required. It should be from an employer, teacher, or professional colleague and tell us why you would be successful at CIA. Submit our online recommendation form, or you can provide CIA Admissions with your recommender’s contact information and we will contact them for a verbal recommendation.

That’s it! You’re on your way to enrolling at the CIA. Once our admissions staff has reviewed your application and supporting materials, we’ll contact you if anything else is needed.