The Culinary Institute of America
At the Culinary Institute of America, food isn’t just what we do—it’s who we are. For over 75 years, we’ve prepared the best in the food world to lead, innovate, and inspire. At CIA, food is more than flavor—it’s science, art, hospitality, business, and a global force for change.
Through hands-on learning in kitchens, bakeshops, and award-winning restaurants, you’ll gain real-world skills that set you apart. Choose from associate, bachelor’s or master’s degrees, focus your studies through concentrations, or explore global food cultures with study abroad opportunities. Wherever you want to go, food can take you there—and CIA is where it starts.
Our flagship campus in New York offers the full college experience, soak up Napa Vibes at our California campus, or tap into city inspiration at our urban commuter campus in Texas. Whichever you choose, you’ll find the same shared passion for food and a welcoming community that feels like home.
Through hands-on learning in kitchens, bakeshops, and award-winning restaurants, you’ll gain real-world skills that set you apart. Choose from associate, bachelor’s or master’s degrees, focus your studies through concentrations, or explore global food cultures with study abroad opportunities. Wherever you want to go, food can take you there—and CIA is where it starts.
Our flagship campus in New York offers the full college experience, soak up Napa Vibes at our California campus, or tap into city inspiration at our urban commuter campus in Texas. Whichever you choose, you’ll find the same shared passion for food and a welcoming community that feels like home.
Accepts first-year applicationsMid-AtlanticPrivateSuburbanMedium (2,001 to 14,999)Co-Ed
Academic programs
- Culinary
Student experience
- Athletics
- Co-op/Internship Opportunities
- Disability Services
- Intramural/Club Sports
- Military/Veteran Services
- On-Campus Housing
- Study Abroad
Application information
First-year
Take the first step toward an exciting future in food—it only takes 20 minutes to apply! First-year students can choose Early Action or Regular Decision. The earlier you apply, the sooner you’ll hear back.
Early Action I
Deadline: Nov. 14, 2025 / Decision: Dec.1, 2025
Early Action II
Deadline: Dec. 31, 2025 / Decision: Jan. 15, 2026
Regular Decision
Deadline: Feb 16, 2026 / Decision: Mar.1, 2026
To complete your application, be sure to submit your official transcripts, essay, and letter of recommendation—SAT/ACT scores are optional. You may have already started gathering some of these, and that’s great. You’re one step closer to joining CIA!
And, don’t forget to explore CIA scholarships—more than 90% of our students receive scholarships and financial aid*, making a CIA education even more affordable.
*Financial aid is available to those that qualify.
Early Action I
Deadline: Nov. 14, 2025 / Decision: Dec.1, 2025
Early Action II
Deadline: Dec. 31, 2025 / Decision: Jan. 15, 2026
Regular Decision
Deadline: Feb 16, 2026 / Decision: Mar.1, 2026
To complete your application, be sure to submit your official transcripts, essay, and letter of recommendation—SAT/ACT scores are optional. You may have already started gathering some of these, and that’s great. You’re one step closer to joining CIA!
And, don’t forget to explore CIA scholarships—more than 90% of our students receive scholarships and financial aid*, making a CIA education even more affordable.
*Financial aid is available to those that qualify.
Transfer
Don't wait any longer to follow your dreams. Transfer to the CIA and use your previous college experience to pursue an exciting career in the food and hospitality industry. At the CIA, we’ll partner with you to create a customized transfer plan that works for you—with easy transfer opportunities that can help you complete your degree on time and on budget. Our CIA Credit Transfer Policy allows you to apply relevant earned credits, life achievements, and select exam results toward your degree. And unlike other colleges, at the CIA, all new students—even transfers—are offered the same level of financial aid*. It’s the CIA way! Learn more about continuing your college journey at the CIA.
*Financial aid is available to those that qualify.
*Financial aid is available to those that qualify.
Image gallery
Additional information
A CIA DEGREE IS WELL WITHIN REACH
Scholarships and financial aid are important factors when choosing a college. We totally get it—and we’ve got your back. If you’re committed to making the best investment for your future at CIA, we’re committed to helping you get here. More than 90% of CIA students receive scholarships and financial aid packages—unique to their individual needs. Our financial aid experts are committed to partnering with you through every step of the process—so you come away with the best package to fit your needs. So don’t put off applying—a CIA degree is well within reach. Learn more
FIND YOUR PERFECT FIT MAJOR
Get the perfect taste for CIA majors with our Major in A Minute video series. Hear why current students chose their major, learn about favorite classes, things that surprised them about their major, and where they see it taking them in the future. In just 60 seconds, you could be on your way to finding your own perfect fit.
Scholarships and financial aid are important factors when choosing a college. We totally get it—and we’ve got your back. If you’re committed to making the best investment for your future at CIA, we’re committed to helping you get here. More than 90% of CIA students receive scholarships and financial aid packages—unique to their individual needs. Our financial aid experts are committed to partnering with you through every step of the process—so you come away with the best package to fit your needs. So don’t put off applying—a CIA degree is well within reach. Learn more
FIND YOUR PERFECT FIT MAJOR
Get the perfect taste for CIA majors with our Major in A Minute video series. Hear why current students chose their major, learn about favorite classes, things that surprised them about their major, and where they see it taking them in the future. In just 60 seconds, you could be on your way to finding your own perfect fit.
Visit us
GET AN UP-CLOSE LOOK AT CIA—Tour Campus or Attend an Online Event
There’s no better way to experience what CIA has to offer than to visit our main New York campus, California campus or Texas commuter campus. Attend an Open House, take a tour, or join us for an online event highlighting our career-focused degree programs. Explore upcoming events at the CIA campus that’s right for you.
There’s no better way to experience what CIA has to offer than to visit our main New York campus, California campus or Texas commuter campus. Attend an Open House, take a tour, or join us for an online event highlighting our career-focused degree programs. Explore upcoming events at the CIA campus that’s right for you.
"A degree from CIA does not have to limit you to just the kitchen; the world is our doorstep to limitless opportunities."