What is Le Cordon Bleu and what is its importance in Istanbul?
Le Cordon Bleu is one of the most prestigious culinary arts schools in the world, founded in Paris in 1895 and today operating more than 35 schools in more than 20 countries. Even if you’ve only come across the name once, you’ve quickly realized that this institution stands not only for culinary excellence, but also for discipline, technical expertise and global prestige.
Let’s face it: A Le Cordon Bleu diploma can be the brightest star on your CV.
Is Le Cordon Bleu a university?
No, technically Le Cordon Bleu is not a university. But thanks to its partnerships, it is a recognized vocational training institution around the world. In Istanbul, this education is offered under the roof of Özyeğin University Faculty of Applied Sciences. This provides students with both an academic background and practical training.
Why is it considered so prestigious?
Wearing their chef uniforms with pride, Le Cordon Bleu graduates have in common a rigorous training process. The instructor chefs are all experienced professionals in French cuisine and international gastronomy. At the same time, each of the practical classes takes place in real kitchen conditions. So you are actually cooking rather than theorizing.
How the Partnership between Ozyegin University and Le Cordon Bleu was Established
Le Cordon Bleu’s partner in Turkey, Özyeğin University, was chosen because of its visionary structure and its applied education model that guides the sector. This cooperation started in 2012 and since then thousands of local and foreign students have been trained in professional cuisine.
Why Özyeğin University is preferred in Turkey?
Because Özyeğin University is an institution that focuses on practice-oriented education in gastronomy. In fact, the Ozyeğin University Gastronomy program has the highest success rate in Turkey. In addition, thanks to the modern kitchen workshops on campus, internationally certified equipment and close collaborations with industry, students begin to experience real-life experiences while they are still at university.
What does this cooperation bring to students?
The program teaches not only “how to cook well” but also kitchen management, hygiene protocols and the intricacies of French cuisine. A graduating student can apply for a job not only in Turkey but also all over the world as a Le Cordon Bleu graduate. This gives you a global identity, not just a diploma.
Offered Programs: From Cooking to Chocolate
Le Cordon Bleu Istanbul offers a variety of programs for different needs and levels. Some are interested in short-term chocolate workshops, while others take years to become a professional chef. The good news is that there is an option for every level.
What is Diplôme de Cuisine and Diplôme de Pâtisserie?
These two diplomas offer the most comprehensive training in culinary and pastry. You can see the program details below:
| Program | Foreign Nationals | T.C. Citizens | Scholarship Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diplôme de Cuisine | 28,000 USD | 980,000 TL | 550.000 TL |
| Diplôme de Pâtisserie | 24,700 USD | 864,500 TL | 480,000 TL |
| Grande Diplôme (Culinary + Pastry) | 50,000 USD | 1,750,000 TL | 970,000 TL |
Each diploma consists of three levels: Basic, Intermediate and Advanced. The trainings are modular, so you can start by taking only the basic level if you wish.
Information about Bakery, Chocolate and Weekend Courses
The following short-term programs are also offered for those who wish to receive intensive training:
- Intensified Breadmaking Program – Dates to be announced soon
- Chocolate and Confectionery Program – New era expected
- Weekend Kitchen Program – Flexible schedule, weekends only
These programs are designed for both professional and hobbyist participants. Therefore, if you say “I’ve always wanted to try pastry”, it might be for you.
2025 Education Periods and Application Process
Le Cordon Bleu Istanbul programs accept students for the basic level twice a year: summer and fall semesters. Start dates for 2025 have been officially announced:
- Summer Term Start: August 04, 2025
(Orientation and hygiene training on August 01) - Fall Semester Start: September 29, 2025
(Orientation and hygiene training on September 26)
Note: Only the intensified basic level program is offered in the summer.
Application Stages
You need to fill in the detailed form for your application to be processed. Upon receipt of the form, the Acceptance Committee will evaluate your application and you will receive a positive or negative response shortly.
If you are accepted, you will be asked to prepare the following documents:
- 4 passport size photograph
- Health Report (chest X-ray, porter tests, stool culture, etc.)
- Payment receipt
You can submit these documents in person or send them by e-mail to [email protected].
You can check the official page for details.
Education Fees and Scholarship Options
Study fees at Le Cordon Bleu Istanbul vary according to both the program and your citizenship status. The table below shows 2025 prices for all levels:
Certificate Program Fees
| Program | Foreign National Fee | T.C. Citizen | Scholarship Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diplôme de Cuisine | 28,000 USD | 980,000 TL | 550.000 TL |
| Basic Level Culinary Certificate | 11,000 USD | 385,000 TL | 200,000 TL |
| Intermediate Level Culinary Certificate | 9,800 USD | 343.000 TL | 190.000 TL |
| High Level Culinary Certificate | 10,500 USD | 367.500 TL | 200.000 TL |
| Diplôme de Pâtisserie | 24,700 USD | 864.500 TL | 480.000 TL |
| Basic Level Pastry Certificate | 9,800 USD | 343.000 TL | 180.000 TL |
| Intermediate Level Pastry Certificate | 8,500 USD | 297.500 TL | 165,000 TL |
| High Level Pastry Certificate | 9,300 USD | 325,500 TL | 180.000 TL |
| Grande Diplôme (Kitchen+Pastry) | 50,000 USD | 1,750,000 TL | 970,000 TL |
Scholarship Application Considerations
If you are a citizen of the Republic of Turkey and are considering applying for a scholarship, it is very important that you fill out the “Letter of Intent” section of the application form completely and sincerely. You are also required to attend a short interview for scholarship consideration.
But please note: Scholarship prices do not include chef uniforms, knife and equipment sets. It is the student’s own responsibility to provide these materials.
Advantages of Gastronomy Education in Istanbul
Gastronomy education is not just about learning how to cook; the environment you are in is also a part of learning. Thanks to Le Cordon Bleu’s collaboration with Özyeğin University, you can experience this in a city like Istanbul, where the heart of culture, history and cuisine beats. I say this because I have experienced it first hand: leaving school and eating fish bread in Eminönü or sitting in third wave coffee shops in Kadıköy feels like a continuation of the class.
Ozyegin University campus life
The Çekmeköy campus of Ozyegin University offers an educational environment that is far from the city but not isolated, in touch with nature. Culinary practice classes are equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and students prepare for the professional world with every minute they spend in the kitchen. Thanks to the dormitory, gym and social clubs on campus, not only education but also an active student life is possible.
Istanbul’s cultural and gastronomic diversity
In how many cities in the world can you find both Michelin-starred restaurants and 150-year-old street food in the same day? Istanbul is an open-air laboratory for gastronomy students. It’s a city where you can immediately put what you learn into practice thanks to its diversity of ingredients, cultural blend and ever-evolving restaurant scene.
Post-Graduation Job Opportunities and the Global Le Cordon Bleu Network
The question of what happens after your studies is perhaps one of the most critical questions in the application process. Fortunately, if you are a graduate of Le Cordon Bleu, the answer to this question becomes more promising. Because you will have a globally recognized brand, not just a certificate.
In which fields do graduates find jobs?
Le Cordon Bleu graduates can work not only in restaurant kitchens, but also in hotel kitchens, catering companies, product development laboratories and gastronomy consultancy. The rate of finding a job within the first year after graduation is quite high.
International internship and business networking opportunities
Le Cordon Bleu’s schools around the world are also points of connection. If you want to do a job or internship in Paris, Tokyo, London or Sydney after graduation, being in this network is a great advantage. During and after the program, students can access these opportunities both through the school and through their own performances.
If you are a gastronomy enthusiast, now is the time to start!
Le Cordon Bleu Istanbul opens a global door for those who not only want to cook, but also want to do it with real passion. If you want to step into this world, today might be the right time to apply.
👉 For more details and guidance on the application process, you can contact us via RoadToStudy and take the first step towards your dream career.