Fund Your Louisiana Culinary Arts Degree with TOPS

Attending culinary school fosters creativity, expertise, and a deep understanding of the culinary arts. Graduates emerge with a solid foundation and real-world skills that are globally applicable, allowing them to enter the food service industry in various ways. Pursuing such a degree requires an investment in education, and while the financial aspect can seem daunting, there are numerous options to help you achieve your dreams. If you are a resident of Louisiana, one of these options is TOPS.

What is TOPS?

TOPS, or the Taylor Opportunity Program for Students, is a state-funded scholarship program in Louisiana. It is designed to provide financial assistance to students pursuing postsecondary education within the state to make higher education more accessible and affordable. It covers a portion of the tuition at eligible institutions, including universities, community colleges, and technical schools for residents of Louisiana.

What are the Eligibility Requirements for TOPS?

To qualify for TOPS, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:

• Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
• Meet TOPS Louisiana residency requirements
• Complete the required units in the Core curricula for your specific award
• Meet minimum Core GPA requirements upon graduation from High School
• Meet minimum ACT composite score requirements

How Do I Apply for TOPS?

The first step to applying for TOPS, or any type of financial aid for post-secondary education, is to complete the FAFSA, or Free Application for Federal Student Aid.

We recommend completing your application as early as possible to ensure that your award can be credited to your LCI tuition bill for your first semester. Once you are determined TOPS eligible, your TOPS payments will be made beginning with the first semester you are enrolled as a full-time student in one of our culinary degree programs. Further payments will be made only if you meet the TOPS Continuing Eligibility Requirements.

What Makes LCI the Best Choice to Use My TOPS Award?

LCI offers two Culinary Degree programs earned over an accelerated timeline. While a traditional degree can take 4 years to complete, an Associate’s degree from LCI can be completed in as little as 16 months. We offer three semesters a year, allowing you to begin your study when it is convenient for you. Our knowledgeable staff and seasoned Chef instructors are invested in ensuring you succeed in not only obtaining your degree but also mastering the necessary skills and gaining practical experience to thrive in a culinary career post-graduation. Our programs provide hands-on training, unique real-world experiences, and mentorship from our staff throughout your time at LCI.

As a resident of Louisiana, choosing to earn your culinary degree from LCI can provide you with a multitude of benefits, from the rich culinary heritage and state-of-the-art facility to our strong connections with local restaurants, hotels, and culinary businesses, offering valuable networking opportunities. Choosing to use TOPS to assist in paying for your culinary education can make this exceptional learning experience more affordable and accessible. By combining the benefits of an LCI education with the financial support from TOPS, you can embark on a culinary career equipped with the skills, knowledge, and financial stability to succeed in the dynamic food industry. Apply to LCI today.