Founded in 1946, The Culinary Institute of America is a non-profit private specialized higher-education institution located in the suburban setting of the large town of Hyde Park (population range of 10,000-49,999 inhabitants), New York. This institution also has branch campuses in the following locations: Napa Valley, San Antonio, Singapore. Officially accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, The Culinary Institute of America (CIA) is a small coeducational US higher education institution. The Culinary Institute of America (CIA) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as pre-bachelor degrees (i.e. certificates, diplomas, associate or foundation), bachelor degrees, master degrees in several areas of study. This 76 years old US higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic record and grades. The admission rate range is 90-100% making this US higher education organization a least selective institution. International students are welcome to apply for enrollment. CIA also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.