International Internships: A Growing Priority for Culinary Schools
The best culinary and hospitality schools in North America understand that global experience is now essential for career success. Working in a professional kitchen in France, Spain, or Italy gives students skills, confidence, and credentials that set them apart in the job market.
If you are a student at one of the following schools, you are already eligible to apply for a paid culinary internship abroad through Talents Place — no matter which campus or city you study in.
Top Culinary Schools in the USA
Culinary Institute of America (CIA)
One of the most prestigious culinary schools in the world, the CIA has campuses in Hyde Park NY, Napa Valley CA, and San Antonio TX. CIA students are highly competitive candidates for international internships — their technical foundation and professionalism are recognized by top kitchens in France and across Europe.
Johnson & Wales University
With campuses in Providence RI, Charlotte NC, and Denver CO, Johnson & Wales offers one of the most comprehensive hospitality and culinary programs in the US. Their students are well-prepared for the demands of luxury hotel and restaurant internships in Europe.
Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts
Named after the legendary French chef, Escoffier schools in Boulder CO and Austin TX emphasize classical French technique — making their students especially well-suited for internships in France. If you study here, a French kitchen internship is the natural next step.
Institute of Culinary Education (ICE)
ICE campuses in New York City and Los Angeles produce highly skilled culinary professionals. Their graduates and current students are eligible for placements across France and Europe through Talents Place.
Le Cordon Bleu (US Campuses)
Le Cordon Bleu is a French institution with global reach. US students who train in the Cordon Bleu tradition are naturally positioned for internships in French kitchens, where the same classical methods are applied at the highest level.
Kendall College — School of Culinary Arts (Chicago, IL)
Known for rigorous culinary training and a strong emphasis on professionalism, Kendall College students are well-prepared for the pace and standards of a European kitchen environment.
The Art Institutes (Multiple US Campuses)
Art Institute culinary students across the US are eligible for international placements, particularly those enrolled in culinary arts and food & beverage management programs.
Top Culinary Schools in Canada
George Brown College — School of Hospitality and Culinary Arts (Toronto, ON)
One of Canada’s leading institutions for culinary and hospitality education. George Brown students have the technical skills and professional attitude that top European employers look for in international interns.
Vancouver Community College (VCC) — Culinary Arts (Vancouver, BC)
VCC’s culinary arts program is highly respected in Canada and graduates students who are ready for professional kitchen environments worldwide, including France and Europe.
SAIT — School of Hospitality and Tourism (Calgary, AB)
SAIT produces well-rounded culinary and hospitality professionals. Their students consistently perform well in international placements due to their practical, industry-focused training.
Centennial College — School of Hospitality, Tourism & Culinary Arts (Toronto, ON)
Centennial’s culinary and hospitality programs prepare students for global careers. Their students are eligible for placements across Europe through Talents Place.
NAIT — School of Hospitality and Culinary Arts (Edmonton, AB)
NAIT offers strong foundations in culinary and pastry arts. Students in Edmonton looking for international experience will find a strong match with Talents Place’s placement network in France and Europe.
Humber College — School of Hospitality, Recreation and Tourism (Toronto, ON)
Humber’s hospitality programs are among the most comprehensive in Ontario. Their students bring solid skills to international kitchens and hotel environments across Europe.
Not on This List?
This is not an exhaustive list. Any student currently enrolled in an accredited culinary school, hotel management school, or hospitality program in the USA or Canada is eligible to apply. The most important requirements are enrollment status, age (18–30), and availability for 3 to 6 months.
If you’re not sure whether your school qualifies, contact us directly — we’ll confirm eligibility within 24 hours.
What Happens After You Apply?
- We review your profile and match you with a host restaurant or hotel in France (or your preferred country)
- Your host company conducts a short video interview
- You receive your convention de stage to begin the visa process
- We provide full visa support until your departure
- You arrive and complete your internship with ongoing support from our team
