Becoming a chef in India involves more than just having a passion for cooking. It is a professional career that requires a combination of formal education, hands-on training, practical skills, and a deep understanding of food and hospitality. Chefs play an important role in preparing meals, managing kitchen operations, designing menus, and maintaining hygiene standards.In India, the demand for skilled chefs is growing with the expansion of hotels, restaurants, cafes, food delivery services, and culinary tourism. To start this journey, one must complete schooling, enroll in a suitable culinary or hotel management course, and gain industry experience through internships or apprenticeships.Scroll down to understand the step-by-step journey from school education to becoming a professional chef in India.Body1. Eligibility & Educational FoundationFinish Class 12: Aspiring chefs typically complete their secondary education (Class 12) from a recognised board.Minimum Marks: For BHM (Bachelor of Hotel Management), a minimum of 50% aggregate in Class 12 is usually required.2. Educational PathwaysStudents can choose from three main educational routes:Diploma Courses:Duration: 1–2 yearsFees: Typically between Rs 1.5 lakh and Rs 3 lakhBachelor’s Degree (Undergraduate):Options: BHM or BA/BSc in Culinary ArtsDuration: 3 years (up to 4 years in some institutes)Fees: Between Rs 4 lakh and Rs 8 lakhCertificate Courses (Specialisations):Duration: 6–12 monthsFees: Between Rs 50,000 and Rs 3 lakhSubjects: Pastry making, Italian cooking, etc.3. Admission ProcessEntrance Exams: For BHM and culinary degree programs, common entrance exams include NCHMCT-JEE, CUET, and NPAT.Diploma & Certificate Courses: These are often merit-based and may not require an entrance exam.4. Skill & Training DevelopmentClassroom and Practical Lessons: Courses usually cover food science, hygiene, presentation, bakery, and international cuisines.Internships/Industrial Training: Most diploma and degree programs include internships. Some institutes require six months of mandatory industry training.Additional Certifications: These help in gaining specialised skills in areas like bakery, patisserie, or food production.5. Career Progression & HierarchyInitial Role: After completing the course, one begins as a commis chef or junior chef.Growth Path: With experience, chefs can move up to roles like demi-chef, sous chef, and eventually head or executive chef.6. Career Scope & Job OpportunitiesWork Settings: Chefs can work in hotels, restaurants, cruise ships, airlines, railway catering, event management, educational institutions, food production companies, and bakeries.Job Profiles: These include chef, food researcher, food stylist, packager, and culinary manager.7. Salary & RecruitersStarting Salary: Ranges between Rs 2–3 lakh per annum after basic training.Average Salary: Around Rs 3–4 lakh per annum.Top Employers: Well-known recruiters include Taj Group, ITC, Marriott, Hyatt, Hilton, Ritz-Carlton, Compass Group, and cruise liners.Top Culinary & Hotel Management Colleges in IndiaIHM Pusa, Delhi – A premier government-run institute and one of the top-ranked hotel management colleges in India.IHM Mumbai – Renowned for offering strong programs in Culinary Arts and Hospitality.IHM Kolkata – Offers BSc in Hospitality and provides excellent hands-on kitchen training.IHM Bangalore, Chennai, Lucknow, Jaipur, Hyderabad – Part of the Government IHMs network; admission through NCHMCT-JEE.Culinary Academy of India, Hyderabad – A specialized culinary school known for its practical training, affordability, and industry-ready curriculum.Welcomgroup Graduate School of Hotel Administration (WSGHA), Manipal – Recognized for its culinary arts program and excellent placement opportunities.IIHMCA, Hyderabad – Offers a Bachelor’s in Catering Technology and Culinary Arts with global exposure.National Institute of Tourism and Hospitality Management, Hyderabad – Provides BBA, BSc, and diploma courses with a focus on chef training and hospitality skills.ConclusionTo become a chef in India, begin by completing Class 12 with at least 50% marks. Then, choose a suitable educational path like diploma, degree, or certificate, depending on your goals and budget. Build practical skills through internships, and enter the industry as a junior chef. Over time, experience and dedication can lead you to senior roles in top hotels and restaurants. With average annual earnings of Rs 3 to 4 lakh and a wide variety of opportunities in hospitality, becoming a chef in India is both a rewarding and fulfilling career choice.For more such information, visit unilist.in
