Certified Master Chef®
The CMC level is the highest and most demanding level of achievement
of all ACF certification levels, granted only after the candidate has
passed an intensive 8-day test of culinary skills and knowledge.
Applicant Qualification Guidelines
- Possess the practiced skills to perform culinary art to the very
highest standards.
- Have a foundation of quality experience and education in advanced
level courses, externships and/or competitions.
- Be physically and mentally prepared to perform eight days under
extreme pressure.
- Secure funding to cover expenses: application fee, tuition, travel,
housing, meals, etc. based at approximately $4,000–$6,000.
Specific Experience Requirements
- Hold a current ACF Certified Executive Chef (CEC) or Certified
Culinary Educator (CCE)
- Letters from two CMCs recommending the candidate for the exam
Additional guidelines and educational requirements can be found in
the 
CMC
Manual.
Application Process
To apply for the CMC certification carefully review the
CMC guidelines
and qualifications, submit a letter of intent, CMC
application, $300 nonrefundable application fee and two letters of
recommendation from current ACF CMPCs or CMCs to the ACF National
office.
Applications will be reviewed by the CMC/CMPC subcommittee and
qualified candidates will become active CMC candidates and receive
information regarding the next scheduled exam. From this point forward,
the candidate will be subject to all policies and procedures regarding
the exam.
Tuition Payments, Refunds and Other Expenses
Once a candidate has committed to an exam date,
the payment schedule is listed below. The total fee for the examination
process is $3,800.
- The application fee of $300 is non-refundable and entitles the
candidate to be listed as a preparatory candidate for the next three
exams.
- Three months prior to the start of the exam, the candidate is
required to make a deposit of $1,500.
- Two months prior to the exam, the candidate is required to pay the
remaining balance of $2,000.
All other expenses associated with taking the exam (travel, room,
board, etc.) are the responsibility of the candidate. This includes any
charges required by the host institution for make-up exams.
Recertification
Master chef recertification is required every five years. Chefs
should use the Recertification
Application and document 80 hours of continuing education. Master
chefs are exempt from taking the three mandatory refreshers.
