California Campus > Degree Program > Experience Requirement

 

ADMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS

The Experience Requirement*

The CIA requires that you gain about six months of hands-on food preparation experience in a kitchen in which at least 50% of the food is made to order on the premises. Here are some ways to gain this experience:

  • Work in a commercial kitchen (e.g., restaurant, bakery, hospital, and college foodservice).
  • Volunteer for a soup kitchen, hospital, or the like.
  • Do an apprenticeship.
  • Tell potential supervisors of your intention to attend the CIA. Often, they will then give you the opportunity to do hands-on food preparation.
  • Work for a caterer (the hours are usually more flexible).
  • Complete the hands-on requirements of your high school's ProStart or Hospitality program. (Please check with CIA Admissions to make sure your school's program applies.)

* Please note that you do not need foodservice experience to apply for admission—the requirement must be met before entering the CIA.

Getting Recommendations

Has it been a while since you were in school? If you are unable to get a recommendation letter from a former teacher or counselor, that’s OK. You can submit one from another individual who can attest to your passion for food and interest in a culinary career.

Want to make it easier for your guidance counselor, culinary educator, or foodservice employer to write your letter of recommendation for admission to the CIA? We can help. Just print out our Letter of Recommendation Guidelines and pass them along when you ask for the recommendation.

Prepare For Your Assessment Test

To make sure you start off on the right foot—and in the right class—the CIA requires all applicants to take assessment tests. If you are accepted and enroll at the CIA, these tests will determine your first classes so you can begin your studies confident that your education will meet your needs.