Applying to the CIA | Culinary Institute of America

Start Now—Here’s How to Apply to the CIA

Take hold of your future. If food is your passion, get the best hands-on education here at the CIA—whether your aspiration is to be a chef, entrepreneur, hospitality leader, or food innovator.

Get started by submitting your application. Choose from two online options:

CIA Online App Common App

Next, to complete your application file, we just need three additional items:

1. Request official transcripts.

2. Submit an essay.

3. Ask for a recommendation.

That’s it! You’re on your way to enrolling at the CIA. If you’ve already submitted your application, learn more about the essay and supporting materials.

Master’s and ACAP Candidates
Learn more about the application process for the CIA’s post-baccalaureate programs. Apply by July 1 for our fall class.

How to apply for Master’s programs >

How to apply for ACAP >
Your Time is Now—It’s Not Too Late!
We’re still accepting applications for September 2021 at our New York and California campuses. Apply Now >

Explore Campus

We wish you were here—but until you are, explore campus online.

VIRTUAL VISITS
Alumni Referral Scholarship

If your recommendation letter is from a CIA alumnus, you could qualify for a $1,000 Alumni Referral Scholarship.

More CIA Scholarships

CIA instructors have big-time industry chops—they lived it, now you learn it.

Learn More

Apply to The Culinary Institute of America