Many students search online for “how to become a chef after 12th” or “what course is required to become a chef”. Becoming a chef is not just about passion for cooking – it requires formal education, professional training, and real kitchen experience. If you’re planning a culinary career, here’s a complete and practical guide.
Step 1: Eligibility – Who Can Become a Chef?
One of the most common questions is:
“Can I become a chef after 12th?”
✔ Yes. You can become a chef after completing 12th standard in any stream – Arts, Commerce, or Science
✔ There is no compulsory requirement for Maths or Science
✔ What matters most is interest in cooking, discipline, and willingness to work in a professional kitchen
This makes culinary careers accessible to a wide range of students.
Step 2: What Course Is Required to Become a Chef?
The most recommended option is to pursue a hotel management or culinary-focused degree that offers hands-on kitchen training. In addition to cooking techniques, hotel management and culinary programs also cover areas such as nutrition, costing, hygiene standards, and hospitality operations. This broader understanding prepares aspiring chefs not only to cook well, but also to grow into supervisory or leadership roles in the future.
1. B.Sc Catering and Hotel Administration
This is one of the most popular answers to “which degree is best for becoming a chef”.
The course focuses on:
- Food production (Indian & international cuisines)
- Bakery and confectionery
- Food safety and hygiene
- Nutrition and kitchen operations
- Catering management
It is ideal for students who want strong culinary foundations along with exposure to hotel operations.
2. B.Sc Hotel Management
Students searching for “hotel management course for chef” often choose this program. It offers:
- Practical culinary training
- Bakery and food production labs
- Customer service and communication skills
- Professional grooming
- Mandatory internships in hotels
This course prepares students to enter hotel kitchens confidently and grow gradually.
3. BHMCT – Bachelor Degree in Hotel Management and Catering Technology
For students looking for the “best degree to advance a chef career”, BHMCT stands out as a strong choice. It covers:
- Advanced food production techniques
- Catering technology
- Kitchen cost control and management
- Hospitality administration
- Leadership skills
This course is suitable for those aiming for senior chef or kitchen management roles in the future.
Step 3: Importance of Practical Training and Internships
Many people ask, “Is a degree enough to become a chef?”
The answer is no – practical exposure is more important.
During your course, you will:
- Work in live kitchen labs
- Learn multiple cuisines
- Handle real-time kitchen pressure
Complete internships in hotels or restaurants
Most chefs start their careers as Commis Chefs after internships and grow through experience.
Step 4: Choosing the Right College Matters
Another common search is “best hotel management college to become a chef”.
The truth is, the institute matters as much as the course.
Chennais Amirta International Institute of Hotel Management
Chennais Amirta offers all the major chef-focused programs:
- B.Sc Catering and Hotel Administration
- B.Sc Hotel Management
- BHMCT
The institute is known for:
- Strong practical kitchen training
- Well-equipped food production and bakery labs
- The best international internships
- Professional grooming and placement support
This helps students become job-ready culinary professionals, not just degree holders.
Step 5: Career Path After Becoming a Chef
Students often search “career growth after becoming a chef”.
A typical career path looks like this:
- Commis Chef
- Demi Chef
- Chef de Partie
- Sous Chef
- Executive Chef
Becoming a chef is a structured journey that combines passion with proper education, hands-on training, and real kitchen exposure. Choosing the right course, gaining strong practical experience through internships, and studying at a reputable institute lay the foundation for long-term growth. With the right skills, discipline, and consistency, a culinary career offers clear progression from entry-level roles to leadership positions in professional kitchens. The key is to start right, train well, and grow steadily through experience.
