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Step 1
Make a list of schools that offer the specialty program that interest you. Call each school on your list and ask the admissions office representative to send you a list of all the courses they offer along with their admission policies.
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Step 2
Narrow down your choices by eliminating the schools that don’t offer specialty courses in your chosen field. While you may transfer to another culinary school after fulfilling the basic course requirements, each school designs its prerequisite classes to prepare the students for advanced specialties. You may not receive adequate preliminary instruction if you transfer.
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Step 3
Check out the reputation of the teaching chefs. If the information wasn’t included in your packet, call the school and request a detail sheet. Ask about awards the school has received and where recent graduates are working.
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Step 4
Consider location when evaluating culinary arts schools. As you progress in your studies, you may opt for an externship, where you work at a local restaurant. If you want to become a gourmet Italian chef, choose a school where there are a number of Italian restaurants. Large cities usually offer a larger selection of eating establishments.
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Step 5
Question the school recruiter about the degree or certification offered to prospective chefs. Some certification courses are complete in a couple of months, while a bachelor’s degree usually takes four years to finish.
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Step 6
Ask about school scholarships if you need financial aid. Many culinary institutes offer financial assistance to budding chefs and they actively stay in touch with top-notch culinary schools. In addition, the institution, itself, may offer scholarships to prospective students.
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Step 7
Inquire as to whether the school has a placement program. New graduates can benefit from a school program that contacts restaurants and paves the way for an initial interview after graduation.
