Start your culinary journey

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At the ICA we train students to become true professionals who challenge conformity and present the food world with fresh and inspiring ideas.

Our philosophy is simple – we believe in excellence in every aspect of the traditional culinary arts. The ICA offers specialised chef and lecturing faculty resources and our custom designed training kitchens boast only the most sophisticated modern equipment. The extensive curriculum is based on classical French gastronomy and our course objectives are driven and endorsed by the industry.

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OUR FULL APPLICATION PROCESS

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How to apply

Due to its size and exclusivity, the ICA accepts a maximum of just 36 students per year. To apply to study at the ICA Chef School, start by filling out the online application form. Complete the required details and provide the listed supporting documents, such as your academic records and personal statement. ICA’s admissions team carefully reviews each application and shortlisted candidates will be invited for a personal interview, whether in person on campus or online. Don’t miss this opportunity to join South Africa’s leading culinary school. Apply now to start your journey towards an exceptional culinary career!

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ACCESS ONLINE PORTAL

Click any of the Apply Now buttons to access the online application form and start the process.

SUPPORTIVE DOCUMENTATION

It is important to submit all required documentation with your application and pay the application fee.

REVIEW PROCESS

If shortlisted, an ICA representative will contact you to set up a personal interview.

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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

There is no closing date for applications, but – because the ICA accepts only a limited number of carefully selected applicants per year – we do suggest sending in applications as soon as possible to stand a chance at becoming a part of SA’s most exclusive, most highly awarded chef school.

The ICA selection process is done on an individual basis. Your application will be carefully considered based on your academic performance, previous industry experience (if any) and suitability to the course and the industry. Applicants are selected on the basis of the above-mentioned criteria, rather than just a minimum requirement.

The ICA is a registered higher education institution, and you will therefore be able to get a student loan should you wish to study at the ICA. As a private education institution, the ICA has occasional bursaries available to South African students already registered at the ICA – this is made possible through the generous sponsorship of private benefactors, and is not offered as a standard.

Absolutely. Though academic performance is a key aspect, there are a number of things we look at when considering your application. This is also an especially important reason why we conduct a personal interview.

No – as long as you have the passion!

The ICA offers a total of three different, full-time courses. Through careful selection & personal attention to each individual application through screening and an interview process, we can determine not only whether you are suited to the industry as a whole, but which course you should take to optimise your abilities.

You need very little to get started. You can simply satisfy the application requirements but for your benefit, there’s nothing better than a campus visit during your school holidays if you are out of town. Make an appointment to see our students in action or book for one of our exclusive Open Days!

Proof of payment of R600 non-refundable application fee
Certified copy of NSC (National Senior Certificate). If not obtained yet, a Statement of Results and the Certificate should be submitted as soon as received.
Certified copy of latest school results.
Curriculum Vitae

Regardless of which course you are following in your first year, you can expect no less than 16 hours practical hands-on training and 8 – 10 hours theory classes per week.

The ICA celebrates a close working relationship with the top and finest chefs, independent and boutique restaurants, hotels, caterers, food magazines, events companies and product development partners for many years. We therefore select the students that we feel are best suited for certain establishments for placement blocks away from the ICA under the guidance of carefully selected mentors. Here they apply their skills learnt and receive industry training at the hands of our country’s leading professionals.

The demand for skilled and qualified chefs has grown so dramatically throughout the world that we have seen our very own students snatched up in the most diverse fields. From working alongside Michelin-starred chefs at JAN in France and sharing demonstration stages with the likes of Massimo Bottura (2016 World’s Best Restaurant winner) in Italy, to training Jamie Oliver’s new recruits at 15 in London and Australia, to Product Developers, Media Communications and Food Styling experts, Culinary Consultants, Events Coordinators and Managers, Wine and Sommelier Specialists both locally and abroad, the possibilities are endless. ICA-qualified alumni are sought after the world over. Just remember the broader your foundation training the further you’ll go!

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We believe, "to be the best, you need to learn from the best". So why not join the ICA and train with an award winning and Internationally rated the BEST chef school in Africa & one of the top three in the WORLD. The training ground for highly skilled world-class chefs. Our comprehensive and specialised training is based on classic gastronomic principles, coupled with innovative thinking and creative flair.

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The Institute of Culinary Arts (ICA) is South Africa's leading Chef School and in the top 3 in Africa. Learn from the best with ICA and start your culinary journey.

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Start your culinary journey

APPLY TO ICA

APPLY NOW

OUR FULL APPLICATION PROCESS

APPLY ONLINE

How to apply

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Application Dates

Does the ICA offer student loans / bursaries?

I did not take Biology and Home Economics / Consumer Science / Hospitality Studies as subjects at school - can I still apply?

Is there an age restriction for applying at the ICA?

How do I know which course is right for me?

What documents do I need to apply and how difficult is the process?

What supportive documentation do I need for my application?

How much time on the course will be spent on practical vs theory training?

What does Industry Placement Blocks at the ICA entail?

I would really like to be a chef, but don't want to spend the rest of my life in the kitchen!

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READY TO JOIN THE ICA?