Undergraduate Requirements & Deadlines
How to Apply to CIA
Admissions counselors are available to help you with your application. Accepted students are automatically considered for CIA scholarships.
Associate and Bachelor’s Degrees
Start Your CIA Application
Our admissions team will guide you through the process, answer your questions, and help you complete the necessary steps to join CIA this fall, spring, or summer.
For the month of October, you can apply for free! Use code APPLY27 on Common App or apply directly through our website—no code needed.
CIA Undergraduate Admissions Deadlines
January 2027 and April 2027 are rolling admission. Apply now!
September 2027
Summer Action
September 15
Notification by October
Early Action I
November 15
Notification by December
Early Action II
December 31
Notification by mid-January
Regular Decision
February 15
Notification by March
All CIA admissions decisions are non-binding.
Application Requirements
Application
You can choose the CIA Application or Common Application.
Transcripts
Essay
Additional Supporting Documents
Letter of Recommendation
Students may qualify for a one-time, $1,000 CIA Alumni Referral Scholarship by submitting a letter from a CIA graduate encouraging them to enroll. In certain cases, Admissions may request a letter of recommendation to strengthen your application.
SAT/ACT Scores are Optional
View additional admission requirements for international students and homeschooled students.
CIA requires that all students meet certain functions and technical standards.
Still Have Questions?
The CIA Admissions team is here for you as you take this exciting next step. Whether you’re curious about the college or need help with your application, we’ve got your back—just reach out anytime!
Track Your Application’s Status
Once you’ve submitted your application, use the CIA’s application status portal to track next steps and view documents.
Graduate 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 and Professional Studies has a range of available opportunities.
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.