Requirements & Deadlines
Apply Today to CIA
Admissions counselors are available to help you with your application. Accepted students are automatically considered for CIA scholarships.
How to Apply for CIA Associate and Bachelor’s Degree Programs
Whether you’re considering a career as a master chef, entrepreneur, hospitality leader, or food innovator, a hands-on education at CIA is the best way to make it all possible. Get started today by submitting your application through CIA’s online application or Common App.
Upcoming Start Dates
- September 9, 2025: Apply Now—New York and California campuses only.
- January 6, 2026: Apply Now
- April 28, 2026: Apply Now
Admission Requirements
- Request official transcripts
- Submit an essay
- Ask for a recommendation
View additional admission requirements for international students and homeschooled students.
That’s it! You’re on your way to enrolling at CIA. If you’ve already submitted your application, learn more about the essay and supporting materials. CIA requires that all students meet certain functions and technical standards.
CIA Admissions Deadlines
Apply Anytime!
- Apply for admission up to 18 months in advance
- Applications are accepted year-round and reviewed on a rolling basis
Graduate and Accelerated Culinary Arts Certificate Program Candidates
Ready to take your career to the next level? If you already hold a bachelor’s degree and are looking to advance your career within the food, beverage, and hospitality industries, CIA’s School of Graduate Studies has a range of available opportunities. Or choose CIA’s Accelerated Culinary Arts Certificate Program (ACAP), which is designed for students who already have a bachelor’s degree.
Online Bachelor’s Degree Students
Combine your hands-on kitchen skills with the business side of food by enrolling in our 100% online Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Food Business Leadership. This program is designed specifically for CIA associate degree alumni with at least four years of full-time work experience after graduating. To apply, you just need your application, an essay, and a copy of your CV or résumé—that’s it!
Tuition and Financial Aid
Food Is Your Purpose
If you’re looking to advance your career in food, there is no better investment than a CIA education. From hands-on opportunities and expert faculty instruction to unique concentrations and exclusive networking events, our education and experiences are unparalleled. We are also committed to making your CIA education as affordable as possible. Our costs are comparable to similar colleges, with more than 90% of our students receiving some form of financial aid.
Don’t let applying for financial assistance keep you from going to the world’s premier culinary college. We will work with you, regardless of your individual circumstances, to help make attending CIA an affordable investment in your future.
Get an Up-close look at CIA
Tour Campus or Attend an Online Event
Whether you’re looking to visit one of our campuses or would prefer the convenience of a virtual event, there’s no better way to learn more about CIA than with one of our admissions events.
