The Culinary Institute of America (CIA) is the oldest and most prestigious culinary school in America. Unlike many of its competitors it is not-for-profit, residential and focuses exclusively on cooking and baking, no hotel management or other service industry components. Many famous chefs across the country trace their roots to the CIA, including those on TV cooking shows. Two programs are offered: culinary arts and baking/pastry arts. These are separate programs and every student in each programs takes all the same courses. The school takes a foundational approach and requires internships, as well as work at the 5 restaurants located on campus. Over 90% of students receive financial aid, both merit and need-based. Application requirements include an essay, transcript, testing and letters of recommendation, as well as 6 months of work experience in the food industry to be completed before enrollment, but not necessarily before acceptance. For a student who is certain he wants to be a chef or manage a restaurant, there are few better places than CIA. K