How much does chef school cost in South Africa?

What affects the cost of chef training?

When you compare culinary schools, look at what you get for the fee, not just the number. The biggest factors are:

• Programme length: a year of training costs more than a short course, but covers far more.
• Practical kitchen time: ingredients, equipment and chef supervision are the main costs of proper training.
• What is included: knives, uniforms, textbooks and exam fees can add up if they are charged separately.
• Accreditation: recognised qualifications include external assessment and exams.
• Travel: the cost of getting to class three or five days a week.

What is included in the fees at The Chef School?

The International Diploma fee includes:

• A professional knife set
• Chef's uniforms
• Textbooks for every module
• Assessments and practical exams
• The international exam
• Excursions

See the full programme on the International Diploma page.

Can you pay chef school fees monthly?

Yes. A deposit of R7 000 secures your place, and the balance is paid monthly over eleven months. Ask us for the current payment plan when you apply.

Questions to ask any chef school about fees

• Are knives, uniforms and textbooks included, or extra?
• Are exam and certification fees included?
• Is there a fee to re-sit an exam?
• How much of the programme is hands-on cooking?
• How many students does each chef supervise?
• What happens if you need to pause your studies?

Is chef school worth the cost?

For anyone serious about cooking professionally, practical training pays for itself in confidence, speed and employability. You learn techniques correctly the first time, you earn a qualification employers recognise, and you start your career with a network of chefs who have watched you work.

If you are not sure yet, a four-hour short course is an affordable way to test your interest first.