Dreaming of Becoming a Chef? How to Get Into Culinary School

Thinking about a career in cooking? Knowing the culinary school requirements is the first step to turning your passion for food into a rewarding profession. This guide will help you understand what it takes to get into culinary school and prepare you for an exciting journey in the world of cooking!

What is Culinary Arts?

Culinary arts is all about the skill and creativity behind preparing, cooking, and beautifully presenting food from around the world. It’s more than just cooking — it includes food safety, menu planning, plating, and kitchen management. The word “culinary” means cooking, while “arts” highlights the creative side of food service.

If you love food and dream of becoming a chef, this field could be your perfect fit. Many students join culinary arts programs after finishing their higher secondary education to get hands-on training and expert guidance. In this article, we’ll walk you through the culinary school requirements, how to apply, the best universities for culinary arts, and the essential documents you’ll need to get started.

Streams in Culinary Arts

The field of culinary arts is broad, with specializations such as:

• Pastry and Baking: Focuses on desserts, breads, and pastries.
• Culinary Management: Combines cooking skills with business management.
• Nutrition and Dietetics: The art of preparing healthy and diet-specific meals.
• Hospitality Management: Involves managing kitchens, restaurants, and food establishments.

Culinary School Course Curriculum

Here’s a simple look at what you’ll learn in a culinary school:

• Pastry & Confectionery – Learn to make delicious desserts, chocolates, and sweet treats.
• World Cuisines – Discover cooking styles and flavors from around the globe.
• Hospitality Management & Gastronomy – Understand how restaurants work and explore food culture.
• Wine & Spirits – Get introduced to wines and beverages, and how to pair them with food.
• Nutrition & Gastronomy – Learn how food affects health and well-being.
• Culinary Arts & Business – Sharpen your cooking skills while learning the business side of food.
• Short & Gourmet Courses – Boost your skills quickly with fun, hands-on classes.
• Baking Arts – Master the art of baking breads, pastries, and even cheese.
• Events & Tourism – Train for exciting culinary roles in events and travel.
• Kids Cooking Classes (Le Petits Cordons Bleus) – Fun, creative classes for young aspiring chefs.
• Diplomas & Certificates – Choose from programs in Baking and Pastry, Culinary Management, or Professional Chef training.
  

Top Culinary Destinations to Master the Art of Cooking

Discover the world’s best places to turn your passion for food into a profession. These countries offer immersive culinary programs that blend tradition, innovation, and hands-on experience—giving you the tools to thrive in the global kitchen.

North America: United States

The U.S. boasts a diverse range of culinary schools, many of which focus on contemporary techniques and innovative approaches. States like California are especially known for promoting green culinary practices and farm-to-table cooking philosophies.

• Notable Chef: Thomas Keller – The French Laundry, Napa Valley

Central America: Oaxaca, Mexico

Oaxaca is a culinary treasure, known for its deep-rooted food traditions and vibrant flavors. Culinary students here engage in authentic, hands-on experiences such as preparing traditional mole and mastering tortilla-making through nixtamalization.

• Notable Chef: Enrique Olvera – Pujol, Mexico City

Europe: France

France remains the benchmark for classical culinary education. With its rich gastronomic heritage, cities like Paris and Lyon offer world-class training in French cuisine, pastry arts, and fine dining techniques.

• Notable Chef: Alain Ducasse – Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester, London

Europe: Italy

Italy’s culinary schools focus on regional traditions and time-honored techniques. Students learn to craft handmade pasta, authentic pizza, and more, with an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and simple, flavorful cooking.

• Notable Chef: Massimo Bottura – Osteria Francescana, Modena

East Asia: Japan

Japan is renowned for its culinary precision, artistic presentation, and respect for ingredients. Programs here teach students traditional skills such as sushi preparation and kaiseki cuisine, emphasizing seasonality, balance, and meticulous technique.

• • Notable Chef: Jiro Ono – Sukiyabashi Jiro, Tokyo

Must-Have Skills to Get Into Culinary School

Dreaming of becoming a chef? It takes more than just a love for food! When applying, culinary schools look for important skills that show you’re ready to handle the fast-paced kitchen life. Here are the essential skills you’ll need to stand out:

Creativity in the Kitchen

It’s not just about following recipes—it’s about inventing new ones and plating dishes with flair. Great chefs think outside the box and turn food into art.

Strong Work Ethic

Long hours, late nights, and high-pressure environments are all part of the job. Being dedicated and hardworking will take you far in culinary school and beyond.

Physical Stamina

Life in the kitchen is non-stop. You’ll be on your feet for hours in a hot, fast-paced setting—so building endurance is a must.

Hands-On Skills

From chopping vegetables to plating desserts, good hand coordination and efficiency help keep things running smoothly in the kitchen.

Sharp Attention to Detail

One tiny mistake can ruin a dish. The best chefs notice everything—from seasoning to presentation—to make sure every plate is perfect.

How to Get Into a Culinary School: Step-by-Step Guide

Ready to turn your passion for cooking into a professional career? Here’s a clear path to help you apply to top culinary schools in 2025:

1. Pick Your Culinary Course
   Start by choosing the culinary program that fits your goals—whether it’s baking, culinary arts, or food business. Research schools that specialize in your area of interest.
2. Check Entry Requirements
   Visit the official websites of your shortlisted schools. Look for important info like application deadlines, tuition fees, and any specific admission criteria.
3. Complete the Application Form
   Fill out the form with accurate and up-to-date details. Make sure everything is correct to avoid delays in processing.
4. Upload Supporting Documents
   Get your documents ready—this usually includes academic transcripts, language test scores (like IELTS), and any other materials the school asks for.
5. Review and Pay Fees
   Before submitting, double-check your application. Once it looks perfect, pay the application fee and any other charges listed.
6. Submit and Wait for a Response
   After you submit, keep an eye on your email and the school’s website. Most universities respond within 2–3 days with an acceptance letter if you’re selected.

Follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to joining one of the world’s top culinary schools in no time!

 Top Culinary Arts Schools in the World 

Choosing the right culinary school is a game-changer for any aspiring chef. The best schools offer hands-on training, global exposure, and strong industry ties. Here’s a curated list of the top culinary arts schools around the world that can help launch your culinary career:

Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts, USA

The school is named after the legendary French chef Auguste Escoffier, focusing on both classical French techniques and modern cooking methods. It offers flexible learning, with options for both online and in-person programs, and emphasizes sustainable, farm-to-table cooking practices.

Culinary Arts Academy, Switzerland

Situated in one of Europe’s culinary hubs, this academy blends culinary education with hospitality management, preparing students for leadership roles in the global culinary industry. The hands-on experience in Swiss resorts offers students a unique blend of education and practical exposure.

Culinary Institute of America, USA

Widely regarded as one of the top culinary schools in the world, the CIA has campuses in New York, California, and Texas. Its curriculum covers everything from culinary arts to food business management, making it an ideal choice for students aiming for comprehensive culinary training with global recognition.

Le Cordon Bleu, Paris, France

A world-renowned institution, Le Cordon Bleu is a historic institution where students master French gastronomy, patisserie, and modern culinary techniques. With over a century of culinary education, it is regarded as the pinnacle of French culinary arts training.

Institute of Culinary Education, New York, USA

Known for its diverse culinary programs and prime location in New York City, ICE offers intensive courses in culinary arts, pastry, baking, and hospitality. The school’s proximity to top restaurants provides students with unparalleled opportunities for internships and practical training. 

Apicius, Italy

Located in Florence, Apicius focuses on traditional Italian cuisine, offering courses that dive deep into pasta making, sauces, Tuscan cooking, and Italian wine culture. The school is ideal for students passionate about learning authentic Italian culinary techniques while experiencing the local food culture.

Read More: Culinary arts programs in Italy | Learning the art of Italian cuisine

Westminster Kingsway College, London, UK

Based in London, this college has a reputation for delivering high-quality culinary education. Its programs offer a mix of traditional European culinary techniques and modern culinary arts, with strong industry connections that provide valuable networking opportunities for students.

Kendall College, School of Culinary Arts, IL, USA

Kendall College in Chicago is recognized for its strong industry-focused curriculum, offering practical experience in culinary arts and pastry programs. Students gain hands-on training in the school’s commercial kitchens and partner restaurants, giving them a well-rounded culinary education.

BHMS, Lucerne, Switzerland

Known for merging Swiss hospitality expertise with culinary training, BHMS offers specialized programs that combine culinary arts with business management. The institution is renowned for preparing students for global careers in the hospitality and culinary industries.

New England Culinary Institute, USA

NECI is a small but highly respected culinary school offering personalized education with an emphasis on farm-to-table techniques. Its on-campus restaurants provide students with real-world culinary training, making it an excellent option for hands-on learning.

Learn More: Top culinary schools in the word

Eligibility Criteria for Culinary Schools Worldwide

To pursue culinary arts education, aspiring chefs must meet the essential culinary school requirements set by institutions worldwide.

Educational Background:

• You must have completed high school (12th grade).
• For master’s programs, a bachelor’s degree is required.

English Language Skills:

Most schools need proof of English proficiency. Here are the common test score requirements:

• IELTS: 6.0 or above
• TOEFL iBT: Minimum 72
• TOEFL PBT: Minimum 533
• PTE: Minimum 50

Key Requirements for Culinary School Admission

Before starting your culinary journey, it’s essential to understand the requirements for culinary school. While each institution may have its own specific criteria, here are the common qualifications most culinary schools look for:

• Minimum Age: Applicants are generally required to be at least 18 years old.
• Academic Transcripts: Submission of high school transcripts is often part of the process.
• Letters of Recommendation: Some schools may ask for references from teachers, employers, or culinary mentors.
• Personal Statement: A written essay or statement of purpose helps schools understand your passion and career goals.
• Passport-Sized Photograph: A recent, scanned photo for identification purposes.
• Proof of Funds: Bank statements or financial documents showing you can afford tuition and living expenses.
• Valid Passport:  A must for international travel and identification.
• Student Visa: Depending on the destination country, you’ll need an appropriate visa for study
• Relevant Experience: While not mandatory, any hands-on cooking experience can strengthen your application.
• Enthusiasm for Culinary Arts: Most importantly, demonstrating a genuine love for cooking and a strong desire to learn is key.

By meeting these standard culinary school requirements, you’ll be well-prepared to apply and stand out as a strong candidate.

Read More: Guide to Writing a SOP for culinary arts school

Career Paths After Graduating from Top Culinary Arts Schools

Graduating from top culinary arts schools can lead to a wide array of rewarding job opportunities in the hospitality, food, and travel industries. These schools equip students with professional skills in food preparation, kitchen management, and presentation techniques, opening doors to exciting culinary careers worldwide. Below is a list of popular roles for culinary graduates, along with their responsibilities and average salaries:

Key Takeaways

• Meeting the basic culinary school requirements—such as a high school diploma, English proficiency, and a passion for cooking—is the first step to pursuing a career in the culinary arts.
• To increase your chances of success, research how to get into culinary schools by gathering required documents, gaining some kitchen experience, and preparing a strong personal statement.
• Selecting from top culinary arts schools that align with your goals ensures quality education, hands-on training, and better career opportunities worldwide.

Liked this blog? Read: Food and nutrition course | Everything you need to know

FAQs

Question 1: What to study after 12th to become a chef?
Answer. After 12th, you can pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Hotel Management, Culinary Arts, or Culinary Science from a recognized institute to start your journey toward becoming a chef.

Question 2. Is it easy to get accepted into culinary school?
Answer. Getting accepted into culinary school isn’t easy. You need to meet the requirements, submit a strong application, and impress the admissions committee to increase your chances.

Question 3. What is the hardest culinary school to get into? 

Answer. One of the hardest culinary schools to get into is the Culinary Institute of America (CIA) in the USA. It has a competitive admissions process, requiring strong academic records, letters of recommendation, and a clear passion for the culinary arts.

Question 4. What are the subjects required to get into a culinary school?

Answer. There are no fixed subjects required to get into a culinary school, but having background knowledge in Home Science, Nutrition, Biology, or Chemistry can be helpful.

WRITTEN BY

Aastha

Sr. Content Writer

Aastha Arya is a Senior Content Writer at iSchoolConnect who writes about topics covering study abroad trends, exclusive news updates and prolific college courses. She has a 4-year of experience in this field and also likes to keep tabs on recent events, visa policy changes, and many other concerns that affect international students.

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