Certified Sous Chef ®

candidate handbook
Certified Sous Chef® ca n d i dat e h a n d b o o k

Table of Contents
Certification Overview and General Policies    4
Why Become an ACF Certified Sous Chef® (CSC®)    4
Mission Statement    4
CSC® Purpose    4
Certification Body    4
Certification Commission Mission Statement    4
Non-Discrimination Policy    4
ADA Compliance    4
Code of Ethics    4

The Certification Process    5-7

Step 1: Determine Eligibility    5
Step 2: Complete Initial Pre-Approval Application    5
Estimated Cost of Certification    5
Step 3: Notification of Eligibility    6
Step 4: Certification Examinations    6
Written Exam Parameters    6
Practical Exam Parameters    6
Appeal Procedure    7
Confidentiality    7
Step 5: Final Application    7
Step 6: Official Announcement of Certification    7
Designation Usage Policy    7

The Recertification Process    7-9

Step 1: Complete Required Refresher Courses    8
Step 2: Determine Number of CEH Required    8
Step 3: Complete Recertification Application    8
Step 4: Notification of Recertification    8
How to Earn Continuing Education Hours (CEH)    8
Certification Expiration    8
Upgrade Certification Level    9

CSC® Written Examinations At-A-Glance    9-11

Description of Exam    9
Exam Administration    9
Written Exam Facility Requirements    9
Test Administration    9
What to Expect    9
Taking the Written Exam     10
Exam Results     10
Written Exam Retake Policy     10
Passing Score Determination     10
Understanding Your ACF Written Exam Scaled Score     10
What are Scaled Scores?     11
Why Eliminate Raw Scores?     11
Optional Practice Exams     11

Recommended Reference Material    11

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ACF Certified Sous Chef® (CSC®) Detailed Content Outline Examination Specifications    12

Sample CSC® Written Exam Questions    13

CSC® Practical Examination At-A-Glance    14-19

Description of Exam     14
Exam Registration and Fees     14
Practical Exam Facility Requirements     14
What to Expect     15
Assessment Criteria     17

CSC® Practical Exam Specifications    20

Certified Sous Chef® (CSC®) Practical Exam Guidelines    21

Exam Results     21

Appendices    22-24
Initial (Step 1) Application    22
Employment Documentation Form    22
Final (Step 2) Application    22
Example Score Report – PSI /Comira Written Exam    22
Practical Exam Registration Form     23
Practical Exam Passing Form     23
Approved CEH     23
Recertification Application     23
Recertification after Expiration Policy    24
CEH Submittal Form    24

©2019 American Culinary Federation, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this document may be disclosed or reproduced in any form without
express written consent of the American Culinary Federation.

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Certification Overview and General Policies

Why become an ACF Certified Sous Chef® (CSC®)?
With thousands of chefs competing in the job market, it is essential to prove culinary competency. Certification through the American Culinary
Federation demonstrates skill, knowledge, and professionalism to the foodservice industry. Certification encourages elevation of culinary
career path and/or position.
Certification shows employers that a Certified Sous Chef® has reached a benchmark of skills and culinary experience with high standards
for food preparation. It shows working knowledge of culinary nutrition, food safety and sanitation, and supervisory management has been
demonstrated. The certificant is in control of their professional development and career, and this increased quality, knowledge, and motivation
is passed on to other staff. Certification reassures consumers that the food they eat is prepared to the highest standard.

Mission Statement
The Certified Sous Chef® (CSC®) certification is designed to identify those chefs and inform the public of individuals who have demonstrated a
standard level of culinary competence and expertise through education, experience, knowledge, and skills consistent with the executive chef level.

CSC® Purpose
ACF awards the title of Certified Sous Chef® and its acronym (CSC®) to individuals meeting the educational, experience, and testing
requirements for the certification. Only those chefs who have met all of the certification requirements are entitled to use the CSC® credential.
After initial certification, ACF provides recertification to those individuals who document enhanced professional development in compliance
with continuing education hour (CEH) requirements.

Certification Body
The ACF Certification Commission is working hard to add value and credibility to ACF certifications. The Commission was formed to guide
and strengthen the certification program through an accreditation process.

Certification Commission Mission Statement

The American Culinary Federation Certification Commission, being an autonomous entity within the ACF, is committed to developing,
implementing, and monitoring a validated process of globally recognized certifications based on skills, knowledge, integrity, and equality
through an achievable process for all culinary professionals.

Non-Discrimination Policy
The Certification Commission does not discriminate among applicants or certificants on any basis that would violate any applicable laws,
including race, color, religion, creed, age, gender, national origin, or ancestry.
If you have questions or concerns about certification, please contact the Certification Department at the ACF National at 888-817-5344.

ADA Compliance
The ACF Certification Commission provides reasonable accommodations in accordance with the Americans with Disability Act (ADA) for
individuals with documented disabilities who demonstrate a need for accommodation. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, ACF
does not discriminate against individuals with disabilities in providing access to its examination program. The complete ADA policy can be found in
the Certification Commission Policies and Procedures document on the ACF Website or can be requested from the ACF National Office.
All requests for accommodations must be submitted by the applicant by completing the Request for Special Accommodation Form. All
requests for accommodations should be directed to the ACF National Office, attention to the Certification Department.

Code of Ethics
The ACF Certification Code of Ethics provides guidance to professional cooks and chefs in their professional practice and conduct. The
actions, behaviors, and attitudes of our members and certificants are consistent with the ACF commitment to hospitality, foodservice, and
public service. Every individual who is a full member and/or certified by the American Culinary Federation shall abide by this certification code
of ethics. Any action that violates the purpose and principles outlined by the certification code of ethics shall be considered unethical.
Ethics enforcement procedures are intended to permit a fair review of alleged violations of the ACF Certification Code of Professional Ethics
or other egregious conduct in a manner that protects the rights of the individuals while promoting understanding and ethical behavior. A
complete Certification Code of Ethics can be found on the ACF website or can be requested from the ACF National Office, attention to the
Certification Department.

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The Certification Process

Step 1: Determine Eligibility
Eligibility is based on a chef’s work experience and educational background.
• Documentation of Work History
A candidate should show a minimum of five years’ work experience as as an entry level culinarian. Candidates with an Associate’s
Degree in culinary arts or who have completed an ACFEF Apprenticeship program should show a minimum of three years of experience
as an entry level culinarian. All candidates must have two years experience supervising a shift or food station. A candidate’s work history
should be current and is limited to the past 10 years.
• Documentation of Education and Continuing Education Hours (CEH)
A candidate can take a variety of educational paths to meet the education requirement. A candidate with a High School diploma or
GED should also show at least 50 hours of continuing education. If a candidate does not have a High School diploma or GED, they are
required to show at least 150 hours of continuing education. A candidate with an Associate’s Degree in Culinary Arts and graduates of
an ACFEF Apprenticeship program do not need any additional CEH to meet the educational requirement. Hours earned for mandatory
courses and/or refreshers can be counted toward hours required for continuing education.
• Completion of Mandatory Education Courses
Candidates should provide documentation of three 30-hour courses—one in Nutrition, one in Food Safety and Sanitation, and one in
Supervisory Management. If these courses were taken more than five years ago, an 8-hour refresher course is required in each topic.
These courses are available (online) through ACF approved providers and/or any academic institution.

Step 2: Complete the Initial Pre-Approval Application

Complete and submit pre-approval application, including all required documentation.
• Educational documents may be copies of diplomas, transcripts, certificates of completion (including date and hours), etc.
• Mandatory education course certificates should be included in application. Certificates should include course title, completion date, and
number of hours earned.
• Experience documentation may be employment documentation forms or letters from past or present employers on company letterhead.
If not available, copies of tax records or W-2 stating time frame of work are acceptable in conjunction with validated letters from former
culinary peers attesting to your employment, job title, duties, and number of employees of employees managed.
-- As a business owner, employment documentation may be an official letter on company letterhead from a certified accountant or a copy
of either your Schedule C, K-1, or Form 1120-S tax documentation for each year.
Submit application and documentation of completed requirements to ACF for pre-approval.
Submit Application to: American Culinary Federation
180 Center Place Way
St. Augustine, FL 32095
Fax: 904-940-0742
Email/Scan: [email protected]

Estimated Cost of Certification

Pre-Approval and Final Application Fee
Candidates interested in obtaining their CSC® certification will pay a $50.00 ACF Member Pre-Approval Fee (fee is non-refundable) or
$100.00 Non-Member Pre-Approval Fee (fee is non-refundable). This fee is deducted from the certification fee of $120 for ACF Member and
$270 for non-members. The remainder is due at the time of final application.

Examination Fees
Once the candidate’s application has been approved, they may register for the written and practical exam.
• The written exam fee is $75 and should be paid directly to PSI/Comira.
• The practical exam fee is $50 for ACF Members and $100 for Non-Members.
-- There may be additional practical exam host site fees.
-- Food costs vary and are not included in exam fee. Candidates are responsible for purchasing their own food.

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Application Fee Written Exam Fee Practical Exam Fee Final Fee Estimated Total
Member Estimated Costs
$50 $75 $50 $70 $245
Non-Member Estimated Costs
$100 $75 $100 $170 $445

Step 3: Notification of Eligibility

The ACF Certification Department will review applications and documentation (i.e., dates of completion, work history, and mandatory course
work). Once you are notified that your pre-approval application is approved, you are welcome to schedule the written and practical exams.
Testing documentation will be needed for final certification approval. Certification must be completed within three years of approval. If
certification is not complete within three years, reapplication will be required.

Step 4: Certification Examinations

There are two exams required for the CSC® Certification: the written exam evaluates culinary knowledge and the practical exam assess
skill proficiency.

Purpose of Exams
The purpose of the CSC® certification examinations is to objectively measure the knowledge and skills of a candidate to determine if they
meet the standards required for an entry level or minimally competent CSC®.

Written Exam Parameters

Candidates have 90 minutes to complete the 100 question multiple-choice exam, which may be taken at any PSI/Comira approved test site.
No support materials other than pens, pencils, and calculators are permitted.

Written Exam Registration: To schedule the written exam call PSI/Comira at 800-211-2754, or register at the ACF/Comira Online
Registration Site. Advance registration is required and non-refundable. The written exam is $75 paid directly to PSI/Comira.

Written Exam Scoring:

-- Scaled score of 300 is required to pass.
-- Score is valid for two years.

Written Exam Retake Policy: There is a 30-day waiting period required before taking the CSC® exam a second time if the candidate fails
the first exam. If the candidate fails the second exam, they must wait a period of 90-days before their third attempt. Written exam retakes are
limited to three attempts in a 12-month period. Testing fees are assessed for each attempt.

Practical Exam Parameters:

The CSC® practical exam is 2 hours and may be taken at any ACF approved test site.

Practical Exam Registration: To schedule the practical exam, contact an ACF approved test site and confirm availability. Contact ACF
National Office to register. The test fee due to the ACF is $50 for ACF-members and $100 for non-members. Payment must be made prior to
the exam date.
Candidates will receive a registration confirmation after payment is processed.
-- Test sites may charge an additional fee that is payable to the organization holding the exam.
-- Payment for applicable host site fees is separate from the amount due to ACF and is coordinated by the test site administrator.
To facilitate the certification process, the American Culinary Federation (ACF) has exam sites throughout the country. You must contact
the test administrator to confirm test time, host site fee, and specific details about the testing facility. For most exams, online registration is
available, or you can contact the ACF National Office to schedule your practical exam.

Practical Exam Scoring:

-- Score of 75% or higher is required to pass
-- Score is valid for one year.

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Practical Exam Retake Policy: There is no waiting period required for the CSC® practical exam. Practical exam retakes are unlimited.
Testing fees are assessed for each attempt and paid to both the ACF National Office and the test site.

Appeal Procedure
Candidates and certificants are entitled to appeal determinations made by the Certification Commission regarding:
1. the Commission’s interpretation of standards, including candidate eligibility determinations and certificate recertification determinations;
2. content of the exam and/or keyed responses to items;
3. alleged inappropriate exam administration procedures; and
4. alleged testing conditions severe enough to cause a major disruption of the examination process.
Appeals procedures are detailed in the Policies and Procedures document, which is available on the ACF website or can be requested from
the ACF National Office.

Confidentiality
The nature, format, content, and results of examinations administered by the Certification Commission and all application materials are
considered confidential information and shall be treated as such, in accordance with policies and procedures adopted by the Certification
Commission, unless appropriate permission is obtained, where otherwise mandated by valid and lawful court or government order, or by an
authorized administrative body. The full confidentiality policy can be found on the ACF website or requested from the ACF National Office.
Due to confidentiality policy, only a certificant’s current status as a CSC® can be verified. This can be done by the certification verification tool
available on the ACF website or by calling the ACF National Office.

Step 5: Final Application

Upon successful completion of the written and practical exams, submit final application, along with appropriate documentation (written and
practical exam passing forms) and remaining certification fee. Include all back-up documentation, no originals (copies only).
Mandatory education courses (i.e., nutrition, food safety and sanitation, and supervisory management) must be current at time of final
application; if not, a refresher course may be required before CSC® certification is finalized and approved.

Step 6: Official Announcement of Certification

The ACF Certification Department will review final application and exam documentation, before notifying candidates of approval (please allow
2-3 weeks for processing). You will be notified by email that the application is received. Once certification is approved, you will notified by
email. Recertification certificates can be printed through the member profile page. If you would like your certificate printed and mailed, please
check the box on the recertification application. CSC® certifications are valid for five years.
ACF would like to share your certification accomplishments in ACF communications. If you would like to share your accomplishment, please
feel free to utilize the Brand You! Toolkit available on the ACF website. If you prefer this information not be shared, please be sure to check
box on final application to opt out.
For more information, call us at 888-817-5344, or mail us at [email protected]

Designation Usage Policy

ACF has a Designation Usage policy that certificants must follow. Each certificant accepts and assumes all, and the sole, responsibility for
understanding and satisfying legal requirements of the ACF Designation Usage Policy, and any Procedural requirements of ACF Designation
usage, including those requirements applying to the use, display, and/or advertising of any ACF Designation. It is the responsibility of such
certificants to ensure that the use of any ACF Designation on professional and business related materials (e.g., stationary, signs, business
cards, flyers, chef coats, yellow pages, or other advertisements and marketing materials) is NOT in conflict with this Policy and Procedure, or
with the laws of the nation, state, or territory in which that individual or entity conduct business. A complete Designation Usage Policy can be
found on the ACF website or requested from the ACF National Office.

The Recertification Process

The purpose of the CSC® recertification program is to enhance the continued competence of certificants and to reaffirm certificant
knowledge in food safety and sanitation, nutrition, and supervisory management. ACF recertification is required every five years. To maintain
your ACF certification, you are required to earn a minimum of 80 continuing education hours (CEH) during the five-year certification period.
The requirement of 80 CEH over a five-year period was determined so that, on average, a chef would complete 16 CEH per year, keeping
them current and up-to-date on culinary trends and practices.

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CEH are experiences that assist in the development or enhancement of the knowledge and skills directly related to the individual’s
professional occupation. We recommend you maintain a folder or copies of your official certificates and letters, conference registrations,
transcripts, etc. in order to keep track of your progress.
As an ACF Certified Member, you may also take advantage of the CEH Tracking program. Fill out the CEH Submittal form for each, and
submit your official certificates, letters, conference registrations, etc. Once recorded, you will be able to view them online through your
member profile list. When it is time for your recertification, simply print out the member profile CEH list, and submit it with your application.

Step 1: Complete Required Refresher Courses

On the first recertification cycle, the three mandatory refreshers in sanitation, nutrition, and supervisory management are required as part of
your 80 CEH requirement.
On subsequent recertification cycles, candidates are only required to complete the sanitation refresher. The remaining 72 CEH required are
self-directed toward a chef’s specific professional development plan.

Step 2: Determine Remainder of CEH Needed

If a candidate holds multiple certifications, their CEH requirement is 80 CEH for the first, or primary, certification, 40 CEH for the second
certification, and 20 CEH for each subsequent certification designation. (Example: Chef Jones currently holds a CEC®, CCE®, CCA®. When
she is ready for recertification, she will need to complete 80 for her first designation, CEC®, then 40 for her second designation, CCE®, and
20 CEH for her third, CCA®, which will total 140 CEH.)

Step 3: Complete Recertification Application

Provide the necessary documentation of your Continuing Education Hours (CEH). Documentation must include the number of hours taken,
completion date, and educational topic. Please do not send original certificates. Complete the application, secure all paperwork together, and include
payment, either by credit card information on the application or with a check or money order made payable to the American Culinary Federation.

Step 4: Recertification Notification

The ACF Certification Department will review the recertification application and CEH documentation, and will notify you of approval (please
allow 2-3 weeks for processing). You will be notified by email that the application has been received. Once the recertification is approved,
your certification letter and certificate will be mailed. CSC® Certifications are valid for five years.
ACF would like to share your certification accomplishment in ACF communications and industry publications. If you prefer this information not
be shared, please be sure to check box on recertification application.

How to Earn Continuing Education Hours (CEH)

CEH can be earned through a variety of professional development activities. General categories of approved professional development
activities are listed on the ACF Approved Continuing Education Hours (CEHs) flyer. In addition, the ACF website provides a service to
certificants, which lists approved CEH providers and courses. ACF does not require any specific course or vendor to be used for CEH.
CEH activities and courses offered by ACF approved CEH providers are varied in nature to allow professional development based on
professional and culinary needs.
Approved CEH must enhance the competence of a CSC® in one of the domains as outline in the CSC® Job Analysis. This links enhanced
competence to the core knowledge and skills required to earn the CSC® credential. Approved CEH enhance one of the following areas:
• Food, equipment and food products
• Culinary team management and leadership
• Food safety and sanitation
• Organization, craftsmanship and finished product skills

Certification Expiration
If a certificant allows their certification to expire, they are granted a 90-day grace period to finalize and submit their payment. If a candidate’s
expiration surpasses the grace period, they must adhere to the Recertification after Expiration Policy. The policy has provisions in place to
allow chefs to recertify if their certifications have expired 36 months in the past or less. If certification expiration date is longer than 37 months
ago, candidates must certify based on all current eligibility requirements, including education, mandatory courses/refreshers and relevant
work history (within the previous ten years), as well as the testing requirements (written and practical examinations).

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Upgrade Certification Level

Candidates have the opportunity to upgrade to the next certification level as they progress in the industry, upon meeting the minimum
requirements of work and educational experience.

CSC® Written Exam At-A-Glance

Description of Exam
The written exam was developed based on domains, tasks, and knowledge areas determined during a job analysis with a group of ACF
Subject Matter Experts (SMEs). Candidates have 90 minutes to complete the 100 question multiple choice exam. No support materials other
than pens, pencils, and stand-alone calculators are permitted. Candidates will receive a scaled score.

Exam Administration
Written exams are administered by PSI/Comira. PSI/Comira is a full-service, customer-focused testing provider with over 400 testing centers
nationwide. Candidates can register for the exam by calling 800-211-2754, option 4, Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. – 5 p.m. Pacific Time,
Sat 8 a.m.- noon Pacific Time, or register online 24/7 at the ACF/Comira Online Registration Site.
• The written exam fee is $75 and is paid directly to PSI/Comira.
• PSI/Comira has a 24-hour cancellation policy.
• An ACF number is required at the time of registration. To request an ACF identification number, contact [email protected] prior
to registration.
• Written exam scores are valid for two years.

Written Exam Facility Requirements

To ensure consistency throughout the certification testing program, all testing facilities will offer candidates a high-level testing venue which
includes appropriate equipment and space configurations as specified in the guidelines below:
• Located in a professional building, with a clean and well organized interior, heating and ventilation, and adequate parking.
• Testing area is located away from noise and distractions and off-limits to all but the test proctor and the test applicants while tests are
in session.
• Appropriate lighting is available to ensure candidates can easily read test material without causing glare on the computer
monitor screens.
• A minimum of two permanent computer testing stations.
• A minimum of 80 square feet (8X10) for two candidates. In the absence of partitions between testing stations, a minimum of 5-foot
spacing is required between candidates.
• Physical workspace of at least 42” wide, 36” deep, and 29” high.
• Must be handicap accessible with appropriate restroom facilities.
• Computers equipped with 17” SVGA color monitors or larger.
• High-speed internet connection.
• Printer

Test Administration
Comira conducts training of all written exam proctors. Each test site/proctor has been issued a proctor ID code and a Proctor Manual.

What to Expect
When you arrive at the Comira written exam test center, the written exam proctor will:
• Ask for the candidates to provide photo identification.
• Have the candidate sign-in on a daily log sheet.
• Issue scratch paper and pencil.

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Candidate should bring:

• A basic stand-alone four function calculator. The use of electronic calculators incorporating permanent or continuous type memory
circuits without erasure capability is prohibited. The proctor may refuse the use of the applicant’s calculator when unable to determine
the calculator’s erasure capability.
• Acceptable forms of photo ID with signature are: Driver’s license, Government ID card, Passport, or Alien residency card.
-- Candidates that do not produce a valid ID at the scheduled appointment will not be allowed to take the test.

Taking the Written Exam

The proctor can explain the use of computer hardware and run Demo Test if requested. The proctor will review the candidate’s personal
information on the screen with candidate. All items must be correct, if not, make the necessary changes. The proctor will select candidate’s
test. If the candidate has two or more exams, select the exam the candidate has scheduled to take first.

Candidate will be asked to:

• Verify the type of exam.
• Complete a survey with comment section at the end of the exam.
• Stay in examination room. The proctor will monitor the test and candidate at all times.
• Take a break, if necessary; however, time given for the exam continues uninterrupted.

The proctor is available to answer any candidate questions pertaining to the software. The proctor must not express opinions regarding test
questions or answers prior to, during, or after a test session.

Certification Description Duration of Exam Number of Questions Passing Score

Certified Sous Chef ®
Multiple Choice 90 minutes 100 Scaled 300

Exam Results
The proctor will print out the candidate’s exam results at the conclusion of the exam, as well as collect the scratch paper and pencils. The
candidate will be asked to sign out on daily log sheet.
The printed results will serve as your official score report. A copy of the candidate’s passing score reports will be submitted with the ACF
CSC® Final Application. The passing score is 300.
In addition to providing the overall score, the score report also provides a breakdown of how the candidate performed in each of the exam
content areas to assist them in refreshing in the event they choose to retest. The candidate who received a failing score will be allowed to
retest per the retesting policy.

Written Exam Retake Policy

If a candidate does not pass on their first attempt, there is a 30-day waiting period required before taking the CSC® exam a second time. If
the candidate fails the second exam, they must wait a period of 90-days before their third attempt. Written exam retakes are limited to three
attempts in a 12-month cycle. Testing fees are assessed for each attempt.

Passing Score Determination

The methodology to determine the cut score or passing point used in this examination is a criterion referenced approach called a modified
Angoff Technique. The testing profession considers this technique to be one of the most defensible criterion-referenced methods available
for setting passing points. It relies on the pooled judgments of content experts. For example, in this approach, a group of experts is asked
to judge each item on the test. The criterion used to judge each item is formed into a question: “What is the probability that a ‘minimally
acceptable’ candidate will answer the question correctly?” This question prompts the judges to consider a group of minimally acceptable
candidates and what proportion of that group will answer each item correctly. The average of the proportions, or probabilities, is multiplied by
the total number of items on the test. The result then represents the “minimally acceptable” score. The final passing score for this examination
is based on this pooled judgment and includes a statistical adjustment for testing error.

Understanding your ACF Written Exam Scaled Score

Assessment programs use different types of scaled scores. ACF uses a scaled score that is between 200-400 with 300 being the
passing score.

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What are Scaled Scores?

Scaled scores provide useful measurement tools for assessment programs and are particularly useful in providing a basis for long-term
comparisons of examination results. Scaled scores are transformed raw scores that use a numeric procedure that involves the overall test
mean, the standard deviation, and the original raw score. For every possible raw score on a test form, there is a corresponding scaled score.
When multiple forms of a test are used, or when results are compared from year to year, scaled scores are needed to adjust for possible
differences in test forms.

Why eliminate raw scores?

Scaled scores are intended to make scores more meaningful by defining a scale of measurement that is not tied to a particular form of a test.
Scaled scores help resolve confusion among users of score reports when there are changes in the testing program.

Optional Practice Exams

Optional practice exams are available for purchase. Purchase or completion of the practice exams is not required for certification. The practice
exam resembles the actual exams in style and composition, but they are not the actual exams. Passing the practice exam does not guarantee
success in passing the actual ACF certification exams, but should give you a good indication of your readiness to take those exams.

Recommended Reference Materials

Culinary Fundamentals Escoffier: The Complete Guide to the Art of Successful Restaurant Management: From
Author: American Culinary Federation Modern Cookery Vision to Execution
Publisher: Pearson-Prentice Hall Author: Escoffier, A. Author: Wade, Donald
Pub. Date 2006 Publisher: Wiley Publisher: Thompson Delmar
Pub. Date 1997 Pub. Date 2006
Baking Fundamentals
Author: American Culinary Federation, Masi On Food & Cooking NRAEF Nutrition
N., Carolos, B.R. Author: McGee, Harold Author: National Restaurant Association
Publisher: Pearson-Prentice Hall Publisher: Scribner Publisher: Pearson-Prentice Hall
Pub. Date 2007 Pub. Date 2004 Pub. Date: 2007
ServSafe Essentials (5th Edition) NRAEF ManageFirst: Human Resources
Author: National Restaurant Association Management & Supervision
Publisher: National Restaurant Association Author: National Restaurant Association
Pub. Date 2008 Education Foundation
Publisher: Pearson-Prentice Hall
Pub. Date 2007

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ACF Certified Sous Chef® (CSC®)

Detailed Content Outline # of
Examination Specifications Items
1. Cooking 37
A. Product Identification 9
B. Cooking Methods and Techniques 4
C. Equipment 8
D. Fabrication 4
E. Presentation 3
F. Recipe and Menu Implementation 9

2. Safety and Sanitation 25

A. Food and Product Handling 8
B. Laws and Regulations 12
C. HACCP Compliance 5

3. Baking and Pastry 5

A. Baking Methods and Techniques 1
B. Equipment and Ingredients 1
C. Presentation 1
D. Formulas, Weights and Measurements 2

4. Nutrition 9
A. Allergies 6
B. Dietary Considerations and Guidelines 3

5. Finance 8
A. Food and Labor Cost 3
B. Purchasing and Receiving 3
C. Culinary Math 2

6. Team Management and Supervision 16

A. Personnel Management 7
B. Team Development 3
C. Federal Employment Laws and Labor Regulations 3
D. Ethics and Professional Issues 3

Total 100

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Sample CSC® Written Exam Questions

1. Which of the following cuts comprise the full loin of beef? 5. What technique should be used to check the temperature of
vacuum packed items?
a. short loin and shank
a. Place the thermometer stern or probe between two packages.
b. short loin and sirloin
b. Use an immersion probe to measure the internal temperature.
c. tenderloin and shank
c. Open package and insert the probe halfway.
d. sirloin and shank
d. The sous chef records the following weights on the yield
2. What class of nutrients includes starches, sugar, and dietary report worksheet while cutting steaks for the restaurant.
fiber?
**AP **Waste
a. Minerals
**Porterhouse **28 lbs. **2 lbs.
b. Lipids **Strip **22 lbs. **4 lbs.
c. Proteins **Filet **16 lbs. **1 lb.
d. Carbohydrates **Sirloin **30 lbs. **5 lbs.

3. What type of storage container is most effective for cooling liquid 6. What is the yield percentage for the strip?
food items? a. 18%
a. Metal b. 72%
b. Glass c. 82%
c. Plastic d. 88%
d. Rubber
7. When advertising for a new restaurant employee, what wording is
4. What is the French term of the position in a classical kitchen acceptable to include?
brigade system that would need to work any station throughout a. Two years of experience preferred.
the kitchen?
b. Males preferred.
a. Poissonier
c. 25-35 year olds preferred
b. Rotisseur
d. Chinese heritage preferred
c. Tournant
d. Commis

Answers to sample test questions: 1. B; 2. D; 3. A; 4. C; 5. B; 6. C; 7. A

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CSC® Practical Exam At-A-Glance

Description of Exam
The test site selects the date and schedules the test. Candidates are responsible for registering with ACF and contacting the host site
regarding additional fees (if applicable). The Test Administrator is responsible for selecting three Certification Evaluators from a current list of
evaluators posted on the website. Three Certification Evaluators are required per every six candidates; of the three evaluators, two must be
unaffiliated with the exam candidate.
ACF defines affiliation as a relationship that consists of a vested interest, an employment direct report, monetary benefit, or any relationship
which could personally benefit the evaluator as a result of a candidate passing the exam.

Exam Registration and Fees

Practical exam registration is required for both test site and ACF National Office. The test site administrator may collect appropriate host
site fees from candidates to cover direct expenses related to the exam. The host site fee is established at the discretion of the approved
examination site. Candidates are required to register with the ACF and pay a practical exam fee of $50 if you are a member and $100 if you
are a non-member. The host site may also require a cancellation fee at their discretion.
Candidates will receive a registration confirmation from the ACF National Office by mail or email, after payment is processed. This will confirm
your registration to the Test Administrator.
Prior to the exam date, the test site administrator will contact candidates about testing time and other exam details.

Practical Exam Facility Requirements

To ensure consistency throughout the certification testing program, all testing facilities will offer candidates a high-level testing venue, which
includes appropriate equipment and space configurations as specified in the guidelines below.
The test site must be able to provide ample space to include refrigeration, work area, sinks, ranges, and oven space for each candidate.
Sufficient access to fryers and grills must be provided, although candidates may share this equipment. A large clock must be visible in the
examination area for accurate time keeping. There should be a candidate staging area for ingredient check-in by the evaluators. First aid
equipment and materials should be available if needed.

At a minimum, each test site shall provide the following:

• 4-burner stove with standard oven per candidate (portable burners are not acceptable)
• 45 sq. ft. usable table/counter working space per candidate
• 4 cubic ft. of refrigeration space per candidate at a close proximity to the station
• adequate cubed ice supply
• one hot and cold hand sink per three candidates
• one hot and cold ware washing sink per four candidates
• 2 power outlets per candidate, located at their work station
• ample garbage receptacles placed at every station, and a community receptacle within the testing facility
• portion/measuring scales to be available for candidates, balance scale for pastry, measuring in ounces and pounds
• marble slab and microwave oven required for pastry candidates
• one five-quart mixer per pastry candidate
• cutting boards
• evaluator’s table should include: silverware, napkins, water glasses, clipboards, pads, pencils, calculator, stapler, digital camera, and a
copy of Le Guide de Cuilinaire
• ample supply of appropriate cleaning equipment including brooms, mops, and paper towels
• plastic wrap, foil, detergent, sanitizers, and buckets
Each station must be provided with a basic set of pots, pans, and hand tools (see list). Additional kitchen equipment is to be supplied in a
common area. In the event that a test site is unable to supply all stations with a full set of station equipment, the candidate may be asked to bring
along some of the items needed to complete the set. The Test Site Administrator shall notify the candidate of this requirement upon registration.

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Individual Equipment:

• (2) 3 quart mixing bowls • (1) rubber spatula

• (2) small sauce pans • (1) solid spoon
• (1) medium sauce pan • (1) 2 oz. ladle
• (1) large sauté pan • (1) 6 oz. ladle
• (1) medium sauté pan • (1) small whisk
• (2) small sauté pans • (1) wooden spoon
• (2) small bain marie inserts

The Community Kitchen:

The community kitchen should include small appliances which can be shared by all candidates. Safety and sanitation supplies must be
furnished by the test site. Candidates are expected to bring their own plastic gloves, if needed, for production or service. At a minimum, each
test site shall provide the following in the community kitchen:

• Chinoise • Proof box

• Food processors • Balance beam scales
• Microwave • Fryer
• Food mixers • Measuring containers
• Grill • Food blenders
• Portion scales

Ingredients
Exam candidates are required to bring all of their own ingredients; however, a test site may choose to provide common staples and
optional items to the candidates. This list of common staple and optional items is to be made available to all registered candidates at the
time of registration.

What to Expect
The practical exam can be a rewarding experience if properly prepared. ACF wants to let you know “what to expect.” We wish you much success!

On the Day of Your Exam

You will have up to 30 minutes to set up before your designated start time or before the pre-exam meeting time if you are starting first.

Pre-Exam Orientation Meeting

The 15-minute pre-exam meeting will be held before the morning exams. The meeting will include:
• Filling out paperwork
• Making final payment (paying necessary fees: host site and ACF)
• Presenting menus to evaluators
• Evaluators will be available to answer last minute questions

The Exam
The CSC® practical exam is 2-hours and can be taken at any ACF approved test site. A score of 75% or higher is required to pass. Practical
exam scores are valid for one year.
• Wait in the designated area until your assigned set-up/start time in which you may begin cooking.
• Expect to see evaluators and apprentice evaluators walking around with clipboards and taking notes. Also expect them to be talking
to each other, asking you questions, looking at your food, and looking deep in thought. This is not meant to be a distraction or an
intimidation tactic, but what is involved in the evaluation process.
• Remember, you will not be alone in the kitchen while you are preparing your food for the exam. Expect up to three other participants with
you in the same kitchen preparing their food, as well as working in close proximity while you are preparing your food.

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• A kitchen’s helper’s role is to assist in keeping the kitchen clean, clearing dishes, etc. They report directly to the Test Administrator. They
may, at times, be able to get something for you. Only authorized helpers will be allowed in the kitchen during the exam. If in doubt, ask.
The test site may assign 1 pot washer and 1 runner per 4 test candidates or per kitchen, but is not required to offer this assistance.
-- Candidate’s assistant can only assist with load and breakdown, they may not be in communication with the candidate during the exam
and are not allowed in kitchen until all candidates have completed testing.
• Do not forget food safety! Remember, no bare-hand contact with ready to eat foods. This means using the proper utensils for the right
job at every opportunity. Remember, the preventative measures for time/temperature abuse and cross contamination.
• You will present your food to the evaluators at your designated time. Be courteous, calm, and collected.

When You Are Finished in the Kitchen

Expect to wash your own equipment, utensils, and china when you are through with your exam. You must clean up and be out of your cooking
area within ½ hour of completion. There may be another participant waiting to set-up for his or her exam.

Evaluation and Critique

At the completion of the exam, candidates will be given a verbal explanation of their performance, which is used to document the results of
the exam. The Test Administrator will give any candidate who successfully completed the exam an ACF Practical Exam Passing Form for
their records. The original individual Score Sheets, Summary Score Sheet, and Candidate Questionnaires are to be sent to the Certification
Department at the ACF National Office.
Any candidate who fails the exam is welcome to take it again. There is no waiting period, but he/she must submit a new registration form
and payment.

Evaluator Training
An approved Certification Evaluator has been placed in a position to fairly evaluate candidates taking the practical exam through certification
level, experience, approved application, and completion of required training and apprenticeships. ACF confirms that this individual has
attained the highest level of trust, professionalism, respect, and ethical confidence from his/her peers.

Practical Exam General Guidelines

1. Candidates must provide all ingredients for use during their certification practical exam as outlined in the exam components for each level.
Exception would be allowed for test sites that choose to provide ingredients. (Check with Test Administrator.)
2. Immersion circulators will be allowed during the exam, however they do not count as a cooking method and are considered personal equipment.
3. No advance preparation or cooking is allowed with the exception of the following: vegetables can be peeled; salads may be cleaned and
washed, but not cut or shaped in any form; and beans may be pre-soaked.
4. Items that require long marinating times may be brought in pre-marinated; however, the candidate must demonstrate the entire marinating
and/or fabrication process during the exam.
5. Candidates are allowed to bring in only the whole and raw materials. No finished sauces are allowed; however, basic stocks (beef, veal,
chicken, vegetable, or fish) may be brought in as necessary for the assignment. No commercially produced stocks or bases are permitted.
No clarified consommés are allowed.
6. Candidates shall bring his/her personal tools, including knives, small wares, and china (plates, platters, bowls, etc.) to display the finished
dishes. Exception would be made for test sites that choose to provide china. (Check with Test Administrator.)
7. Dry and wet garbage receptacles, as well as trim receptacles, must be maintained and presented to evaluators upon completion of the exam.
8. Basic nutritional balance in recipe development means the candidate should use the following guidelines in formulating a balanced,
nutritionally-sound recipe.
Daily caloric intake should range between 1300 to 3000 calories per day with:
-- 45%-65% of calories from carbohydrates
-- 20%-35% of calories from fat with less than 10% from saturated fat
-- 10%-35% of calories from protein
-- 300 mg or less of cholesterol
-- 2400 mg or less of sodium

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Savory Guidelines
• Ingredients and garnishes should harmonize with the main part of the dish and conform to contemporary standards of nutritional values.
• Unnecessary ingredients should be avoided and practical, acceptable, cooking methods should be applied.
• Dressing the rims of the plate results in an unacceptable appearance.
• Meat and vegetable juices should not make a dish look unappetizing.
• Vegetables must be cut or turned uniformly.
• Plate arrangements and decoration should be practical yet appealing and should comply with daily standards.
• In general, portion weight should be in keeping with the norms of accepted practice and nutritional balance.
• Plated portions must be proportional to the dish itself and the number of persons specified.
• A type-written menu describing each dish to be prepared must be provided to evaluators.
• All items presented will be evaluated based on cooking methodology, taste, presentation, degree of doneness, and measured to the
acceptable industry standards.
• Execution of cooking fundamentals and kitchen management will generate the primary factors for evaluation; see the Score Sheets for a
clear understanding of what will be evaluated.

Study Tips and Helpful Hints

• Read the CSC® Practical Exam guidelines carefully.
• Develop a plan and timeline, and then follow it closely.
• Study applicable written material for:
-- Processes mandated
-- Processes you decide to do
• Practice ten times.
• See guidelines for items that you can and cannot bring.
• Remember, you are in control of selecting your ingredients, so make sure they meet your needs and the needs of the exam.
• The basic equipment will be provided as described in the ACF Practical Exam Administration Guide; however, if you have been
practicing with your own pots and pans, small wares, etc., then you will want to bring those with you and use them. This way you know
the nuances already and do not have to deal with any last minute surprises.
• Bring your own china. (Check with Test Administrator.)
• Practice, practice, practice.
• Sanitation skills will be monitored at all times for compliance with standard rules and that sanitation infractions could lead to a failing exam.
• All candidates must wear white chef coat, white toque, black or black and white checkered pants, leather shoes, or clogs, and have a
clean apron and side towels.
• Ask questions prior to the exam, be prepared! When in doubt, ask. Contact ACF National Office Certification Department at
800-624-9458 or check out www.acfchefs.org and contact a Certification Evaluator or Certification Evaluator Trainer in your region, who
will tell you to practice.

Assessment Criteria
The assessment for certification practical testing is divided into four general areas: Safety and Sanitation Skills; Organization; Craftsmanship
Skills; and Finished Product Skills.
The candidate’s skills are evaluated during the examination period through frequent monitoring by the evaluators. Notes are made during the
examination as references to the evaluation. The practical examination is scored overall as pass or fail. Points are calculated in various areas
and a total numerical score is calculated. A total average score of 75% (75 points) or better is considered passing.
Domain 1: Safety and Sanitation Skills will be measured using required industry standards. The candidate is evaluated on their ability to
work within established guidelines for safety and sanitation at all times.

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Scoring: Safety and sanitation skills are assessed as acceptable or unacceptable. An unacceptable score in this area by two or more evaluators
is considered an overall failure, regardless of the total points achieved by candidate. Evaluators are allowed to disqualify any candidate for
infractions of these guidelines. Cleanliness of the equipment, both during and after the test, will be the responsibility of the candidate.
Here is a general guideline on safety and sanitation skills the candidate needs to follow:
a. Safety and Sanitation Skills: The prevention of time/temperature abuse and cross contamination are the two most important areas in
which the candidate needs to demonstrate a thorough working knowledge. During the exam, if an examiner has seen a possible infraction
of either of these two areas, the candidate may be questioned as to their knowledge of these concepts. Infraction(s) of either time/
temperature abuse or cross contamination could cause the candidate to fail the exam.
The cutting boards must be scrupulously sanitary. Knives must be sharp. The toolbox/knife bag must be clean and sanitary inside.
Sanitizing solution must be correctly titrated, and used properly to sanitize hands and equipment in-between uses. Candidates must
be using towels correctly and not wiping debris off a table and then wiping a knife or a plate with the same towel. Candidates must not
be using their aprons as hand wipes. Products must be stored at the correct temperature. Gloves must be used when the last contact
with food is occurring, for example, plating up. Scores and cuts must be properly treated and covered. Areas must be kept sanitized,
particularly during fish to meat to vegetable or dairy transitions. Frequent hand washing and sanitizing must take place.

Domain 2: Organization Skills will be measured using industry standards for the following:
• Organization and work flow
• Proper utilization of all ingredients
• Timing of service and follow-up
Scoring: Organizational skills are assessed based on mise en place, recipe development, utilization of ingredients, and use of allotted time, for
a possible total of 20 points.
Here are general guidelines for organization and work flow the candidate needs to follow:
a. Organization: Table is kept clear of nonessentials, such as equipment not needed for the task at hand. Candidate is working systematically
on one job at a time, using correct cutting motions and the correct knife for the job, organizing products properly in a refrigerator, rack,
cart, knife or other equipment storage. Candidate understands how the usable waste is stored properly. Floor spills are quickly handled.
The candidate is not using the dish area as a storage dump. The candidate has an organized withdrawal from the kitchen, leaving it as
clean as it was found.
b. Work Flow: The candidate practices smooth transitions from one job to another. The candidate has a logical progression of jobs; for
example, chops herbs or minces garlic at the same time. The candidate maintains proper timing of the menu items.
c. Proper Utilization of all Ingredients is evaluated on the candidate’s efficient use of products. All food and non-food refuse will be kept at
the station with the candidate until the completion of the test. Two separate containers are to be maintained: one for food refuse and the
other for non-food refuse. The candidate may request to empty the non-food refuse during the test, only after the contents of the container
have been reviewed by the evaluator. Upon the completion of the exam, the evaluator shall review the food refuse container to determine
efficiency of the candidate’s work. Points may be deducted from the candidate’s score if serious infractions concerning product usage are
witnessed. In the case of cooked byproduct, such as roasted chicken, only an appropriate portion should be presented. The cooked by-
product should be properly handled and stored as if it were to be intended for another use.
d. Timing of service and follow-up is evaluated on the requisite time given to the candidate for the level of examination attempting. The
candidate will be notified of his/her presentation time “window” upon the start of his/her preparation. If the candidate is not able to
present the entire menu during the time frame allotted, points may be deducted.
Exceeding a reasonable allotted time can result in loss of points and may or may not result in a failing grade.

Domain 3: Craftsmanship Skills will be measured using industry standards for the following:
• Creativity, skills, and craftsmanship are evaluated based on the candidate’s ability to properly execute classical knife cuts and proper
cooking techniques, while utilizing the correct method of preparation for any given item. In addition, the variety of techniques properly
executed shall be factored into this score.
• Serving and portion size is evaluated on the main item and complementary components in the correct size and amounts following the
required nutritional standards. When the main item is not within prescribed limits, either under or over, then points may be deducted.
Likewise, each accompanying item not within acceptable portion size could result in the loss of points.
Scoring: Craftsmanship skills are assessed based on execution of proper cooking techniques, skills, and fundamentals through creativity,
skills, and craftsmanship, for a possible total of 40 points.

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Here are some general guidelines on cooking skills and techniques the candidate needs to follow:
a. Cooking Techniques and Skills: The candidate should pay attention to detail, as described by the fundamental cooking technique
specified. The candidate should use the proper technique as stated in the test criteria, such as properly deglazing a pan, rather than
simply adding wine or a liquid; properly browning the mirepoix, not just heating it; correctly roasting and basting the product as it needs,
not just placing the product in the oven; or poaching items, rather than simmering them. The candidate should use correct methodology
and techniques in preparing forcemeat and demonstrates a variety of different techniques.
b. Butchery and Boning Skills: The candidate is efficient and profitable in the removal of muscle from meat or poultry carcasses or fish from a
bone. Sinew and/or fat removal and correct tying methods will be evaluated.

Domain 4: Finished Product Skills will be measured using industry standards for the following:
• Overall Presentation, including the use of appropriate garnishes
• Overall Nutritional Balance
• Ingredient Compatibility
• Flavor, Taste, Texture and Doneness
Scoring: Finished product skills are assessed based on flavor, texture, presentation, ingredient compatibility, and nutritional balance for
possible total of 40 points.
Here are some general guidelines on finished product skills the candidate needs to follow:
a. Serving Methods and Presentation: Hot Food Hot and Cold Food Cold! (including plates)
Presentation is evaluated on correct temperatures of the items served, including the dishware, visible seasonings and garnishing,
arrangements of items, and overall aesthetic appeal of the presented items. Food is fresh and colorful, visibly seasoned, presented
with some height, easy to eat, and pleasing to the eye. Meat/fish slices are even, straight, and evenly shingled. Items are placed closely
together to help maintain temperature and to keep the plate from resembling a “smiling face” or “party-on-the-plate décor.” The use of
white china is strongly suggested.
b. Portion Size and Nutritional Balance: Components of the meal are balanced so that the main item is complemented in size/amount by the
accompanying garnish(es) and/or sauce. The candidate adheres to nutritional standards. The protein weight is within the set limits.
c. Ingredient Compatibility: Ingredient compatibility and nutritional balance are evaluated on the harmonious use of ingredients, cooking
methods, and ingredient colors, which follow guidelines for nutritional balance. Ingredient colors harmonize. Ingredient amounts are
correctly portioned to give a perfect harmonization. Have any of the ingredients been duplicated?
d. Flavor, Taste, Texture, and Doneness: Flavor and texture are evaluated on the proper use of flavors and seasonings in every menu item
and/or component, with a variety of contrasting food textures as presented for judging. The flavors are typically associated with the
specific food ingredients in the menu and recipes are profound. For example, the duck broth tastes like duck. Doneness temperatures
are correct. Stated vegetable cuts are correct. Stated cooking techniques have been correctly applied. The textures correspond to what
was implied in the recipe. The flavor of the sauce or vinaigrette reflect what the recipe states and has the correct consistency. The correct
degrees of caramelization has been shown.

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CSC® Practical Exam Specifications

The practical exam is based on domains and skills determined during a job analysis with a group of ACF subject matter experts.

Domain 1: Safety and Sanitation Skills

Sanitation skills are observed and evaluated in the course of the performance of the skills performed in Domains 2, 3 and 4. Failure to meet the
sanitation skills standard shall result in a failure despite the degree of Organizational, Craftsmanship and Finished Product skills demonstrated
Skills:
• Working and managing a sanitary environment
• Food handling that avoids time/temperature violations and cross-contamination
• Proper food product disposal techniques

Domain 2: Organizational Skills 20%

Skill 1: Mise en place
Skill 2: Food storage
Skill 3: Work flow
Skill 4: Use of time
Skill 5: Matching cooking method to product
Skill 6: Use of ingredients
Skill 7: Planning portion sizes/nutritional balance
Skill 8: Weighing and measuring
Skill 9: Menu development

Domain 3: Craftsmanship Skills 40%

Skill 10: Cooking techniques that maximize flavor and preserve integrity
Skill 11: Knife handling/butchering
Skill 12: Use of equipment/tools in preparation
Skill 13: Understanding aromatic/flavor combinations
Skill 14: Use of slurries and other thickeners
Skill 15: Preparation of vegetables and starches
Skill 16: Making stocks, broths, and soups
Skill 17: Preparing sauces
Skill 18: Use of dry moist heat
Skill 19: Basic cooking times and ratios
Domain 4: Finished Product Skills 40%
Skill 20: Flavor development
Skill 21: Determining doneness
Skill 22: Achieving desired texture and color
Skill 23: Serving food at the desired temperature
Skill 24: Presentation techniques
Skill 25: Choosing vessels
Skill 26: Use of sauces
Skill 27: Use of garnishes for appearance or flavor
Skill 28: Food integrity and nutritional balance
Skill 29: Achieving stated menu

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Certified Sous Chef® (CSC®) Practical Exam Guidelines

• Candidates are responsible for bringing all ingredients for the exam.
• Sanitation skills will be monitored at all times for compliance with standard rules.
• Sanitation infractions could lead to a failing grade.
• Professional Uniform: All candidates must wear white chef coat, white toque, black or black and white checkered pants, leather shoes,
or clogs, and have clean apron and side towels.
• Candidates should present a typed menu to the examiners prior to the start of the exam.
• Candidates must bring their own plates unless the test site has agreed to provide them.

Exam Time: 2 hours

During the time allotted for the exam, candidates must prepare and exhibit the following skills, finish each according to industry standards,
and present final products to the evaluators. As items are completed, a candidate may present them at that time, either by setting them on
finished plates at the end of their work station or by approaching the evaluators directly.

The candidate shall exhibit the following:

• Prepare 2 cups of Matignon vegetables
• Prepare 2 fresh globe artichokes to a cooked state, suitable for finishing, depending on various menu descriptions
-- Display whole cooked artichokes to the examiners
-- Plates do not need garnish or sauce
• Prepare 2 cups of cooked rice pilaf and use in final main course presentation
• Prepare at least one 6-ounce seasoned strip steak to medium rare
-- If steak is not used as main course, display on a clean plate for the examiners to check doneness and proper cooking technique.
-- Fillet and poach one seasoned whole flat fish (Dover Sole or founder)
-- If fish is not used as main course protein, display on clean plate for the examiners to check closeness and proper cooking technique
• Prepare 4 servings of one salad with an emulsified vinaigrette dressing
-- Dressing must be made by hand
-- Tossed with extra dressing on the side
-- Ingredients must be brought in and prepared on site.
• Choose one of the preceding proteins and serve a main course (4 portions) of that item, along with appropriate sauces and accompaniments
-- Additional ingredients may be brought in and prepared on site for the accompanying vegetables
-- Rice pilaf must be used as a part of the final presentation.

Notes:
1. The candidate may add any supporting or “common kitchen” ingredients to the groceries that are needed.
2. Appropriate organization, safety, and sanitation skills contribute greatly to each candidates’ success.
3. Candidates may not present their food outside of the service window, unless specifically instructed by the proctor or test administrator.
4. Candidates are encouraged to pre-marinate any proteins and serve those proteins at the exam, as long as the butchering and pre-
marinating process is demonstrated during the exam. For example, the day before the exam, butcher a chicken and marinate it for the
following day. During the exam, demonstrate the process on another whole chicken and then properly store the product for “future use.”

Exam Results:
At the conclusion of a practical exam, candidates will receive both a verbal and written critique of their performance in each of the exam
content areas. The lead evaluator for the exam will facilitate the review and will make written comments on the Practical Exam Candidate
Written Critique Form. This will be provided to all candidates, both passing and failing. This will allow the candidates to review areas for
development in the event they choose to retest. Candidates who do not pass the practical exam are allowed to retest per the retesting policy.
In addition to the Practical Exam Candidate Written Critique Form, which all candidates receive, those candidates who pass will receive an ACF
Practical Exam Passing Form, which they will include with their final application form and written exam passing form to the ACF National Office.

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Appendices

American Culinary Federation

Step 1: Initial CSC® Pre-Approval Application
Certified Sous Chef®
Employment Documentation Form

American Culinary Federation, Inc. • 180 Center Place Way • St. Augustine, FL 32095 • Toll-free: (800) 624-9458 • Fax: (904) 940-0742 • www.acfchefs.org
American Culinary Federation, Inc. • 180 Center Place Way • St. Augustine, FL 32095 • Toll-free: (800) 624-9458 • Fax: (904) 940-0742 • www.acfchefs.org

The certification program of American Culinary Federation, Inc. (ACF) recognizes those individuals who have demonstrated that they
Once completed email to [email protected] or mail this form and payment to the address above.
meet the minimum standards set for each level of certification. Those who earn certification are viewed as highly competent, respected
PersOnal InfOrmatIOn professionals who are knowledgeable in their positions.
First Name: MI: Last Name: ACF #: Please complete the information below on behalf of the individual applying for certification. Acceptance into the ACF certification
Home Phone: Cell Phone: Email: program is, in part, contingent on documentation and verification of past and present employment.

Home Address:
Please tyPe or Print clearly
City: State: Zip: To: The ACF Certification Commission Date:
WY
WV
WI
WA
VT
VI
VA
UT
TX
TN
SD
SC
RI
PW
PR
PA
OR
OK
OH
NY
NV
NM
NJ
NH
NE
ND
NC
MT
MS
MP
MO
MN
MI
MH
ME
MD
MA
LA
KY
KS
IN
IL
ID
IA
HI
GU
GA
FM
FL
DE
CT
CO
CA
AZ
AS
AR
AP
AL
AK
AE
AA
mandatOry requIrements This letter will verify that was employed by
Include proof of education and work experience with application. Acceptable documents include copies of official transcript, diplomas this establishment from to .
and employment verification letters on company letterhead. Do not send originals.
His/Her official position/title during this period was ,
1. education date Completed documentation Included
and he/she supervised a minimum of full-time personnel in the performance of food preparation responsibilities.
High School Diploma /GED plus *50 CEHs or
*150 Continuing Education Hours or Duties anD resPonsibilities

Associate's Degree in Culinary Arts or

ACFEF Apprenticeship Program
Courses
30-Hour Culinary Nutrition
30-Hour Food Safety & Sanitation
30-Hour Culinary Supervisory Management
Eight hour refresher course required if initial 30-hour courses are older than five years.
8-Hour Refresher Culinary Nutrition
8-Hour Refresher Food Safety & Sanitation
8-Hour Refresher Supervisory Management
*30 hour courses in nutrition, food safety and sanitation, & supervisory management counts toward continuing education.
2. Work experience: Five years as an entry level culinarian or 3 years with an Associates Degree in Culinary Arts. Graduates of the
ACFEF Apprentice Program must have completed 4,000 hours on the job training. Experience must be within the past 10 years. I attest that the above information is true and understand that any misinformation provided may adversely affect the
Place of Employment Title mm/dd/yy mm/dd/yy Documentation Included candidacy of stated certification applicant.
Printed Name:
Daytime Phone: Email: Title:
Name of Establishment:
Address of Establishment:
City: State: Zip:
WY
WV
WI
WA
VT
VI
VA
UT
TX
TN
SD
SC
RI
PW
PR
PA
OR
OK
OH
NY
NV
NM
NJ
NH
NE
ND
NC
MT
MS
MP
MO
MN
MI
MH
ME
MD
MA
LA
KY
KS
IN
IL
ID
IA
HI
GU
GA
FM
FL
DE
CT
CO
CA
AZ
AS
AR
AP
AL
AK
AE
AA

Signature:

a blank copy of this form should be sent to each employer.

EDF110116

Initial (Step 1) Application Employment Documentation Form

Click here Click here
www.acfchefs.org/download/documents/certify/certification/app_pre-approval_cec.pdf www.acfchefs.org/download/documents/certify/ACF_Certification_Employment_Documentation.pdf

Step 2: Final CSC® Application

Certified Sous Chef®

American Culinary Federation, Inc. • 180 Center Place Way • St. Augustine, FL 32095 • Toll-free: (800) 624-9458 • Fax: (904) 940-0742 • www.acfchefs.org

Once completed email to [email protected] or mail this form and payment to the address above.

PersOnal InfOrmatIOn
First Name: MI: Last Name: ACF #:
Home Phone: Cell Phone: Email:
Home Address:
City: State: Zip:
WY
WV
WI
WA
VT
VI
VA
UT
TX
TN
SD
SC
RI
PW
PR
PA
OR
OK
OH
NY
NV
NM
NJ
NH
NE
ND
NC
MT
MS
MP
MO
MN
MI
MH
ME
MD
MA
LA
KY
KS
IN
IL
ID
IA
HI
GU
GA
FM
FL
DE
CT
CO
CA
AZ
AS
AR
AP
AL
AK
AE
AA
Name (as it should appear on certificate):
Employer: Job Title:

test requIrements
1. Written Exam (score valid for 2 years)
Location: Date: Score Sheet Included:
2. Practical Exam (score valid for 1 year)
Location: Date: Score Sheet Included:

Payment InfOrmatIOn
$70.00 ACF Member $170.00 Non-Member
I have enclosed a check made payable to the American Culinary Federation (ACF).
Please bill my: Visa MasterCard Amex Discover
Account Number: Exp Date: Amount:
Billing Address:
City: State: Zip:
WY
WV
WI
WA
VT
VI
VA
UT
TX
TN
SD
SC
RI
PW
PR
PA
OR
OK
OH
NY
NV
NM
NJ
NH
NE
ND
NC
MT
MS
MP
MO
MN
MI
MH
ME
MD
MA
LA
KY
KS
IN
IL
ID
IA
HI
GU
GA
FM
FL
DE
CT
CO
CA
AZ
AS
AR
AP
AL
AK
AE
AA
Name on Account: Signature:

CertIfICatIOn agreement
With this application, I verify the information provided is truthful and accurate. I grant the ACF permission to investigate employment
and education, and I release from liability all persons and companies supplying such information. I agree to adhere to the ACF
Certification Code of Ethics, Designation Usage and policies of the certification program and agree to accept the ACF Certification
Commission's determination on all certification decisions. Certification is awarded for five years and recertification is required to
maintain certification designation. I acknowledge that false statements or misrepresentation may result in the revocation of this
application and/or approved certification. I agree to allow ACF to share my certification accomplishment in ACF communications and
with local newspapers and industry publications.
Check this box if you do not want your certification accomplishments included in ACF communications or shared with media.

Signature: Date:
retention Policy: Certification documents will be retained for seven years after certification expiration.

FCSCA110816

Final (Step 2) Application Example Score Report – Comira Written Exam

Click here
www.acfchefs.org/download/documents/certify/certification/app_final_cec.pdf

22
Certified Sous Chef® ca n d i dat e h a n d b o o k

Appendices

American Culinary Federation

Practical Exam Candidate Registration Form
AMERICAN CULINARY FEDERATION
Practical Exam Passing Form
American Culinary Federation, Inc. • 180 Center Place Way • St. Augustine, FL 32095 • Toll-free: (800) 624-9458 • Fax: (904) 940-0742 • www.acfchefs.org

Please complete application, attach documentation and email to [email protected] or mail this form and payment to the Name: ______________________________________________ ACF Member #: ___________
address above.

Personal InformatIon Exam Date: _________________________________________________________________________

First Name: MI: Last Name: ACF #:
Home Phone: Cell Phone: Email: Exam Site: _________________________________________________________________________
Home Address:
Test Site Administrator: ___________________________________________________________
City: State: Zip:
WY
WV
WI
WA
VT
VI
VA
UT
TX
TN
SD
SC
RI
PW
PR
PA
OR
OK
OH
NY
NV
NM
NJ
NH
NE
ND
NC
MT
MS
MP
MO
MN
MI
MH
ME
MD
MA
LA
KY
KS
IN
IL
ID
IA
HI
GU
GA
FM
FL
DE
CT
CO
CA
AZ
AS
AR
AP
AL
AK
AE
AA
Level of Certification for which this candidate passed:
Exam Location: Exam Date:

Certification level you are testing for  Certified Culinarian® (CC®)

  Certified Culinarian® (CC®)   Certified Pastry Culinarian® (CPC®)
 Certified Pastry Culinarian® (CPC®)
  Certified Sous Chef® (CSC®)   Certified Working Pastry Chef® (CWPC®)
 Certified Sous Chef® (CSC®)
  Certified Chef de Cuisine® (CCC®)   Certified Executive Pastry Chef® (CEPC®)
  Certified Executive Chef® (CEC®)   Personal Certified Executive Chef™ (PCEC™)  Certified Working Pastry Chef® (CWPC®)
  Personal Certified Chef™ (PCC™)  Certified Chef de Cuisine® (CCC®)
Payment InformatIon  Certified Executive Chef® (CEC®)
$50.00 ACF Member Practical Exam Fee $100.00 Non-Member Practical Exam Fee
 Certified Executive Pastry Chef® (CEPC®)
  I have enclosed a check made payable to the American Culinary Federation (ACF).
Please bill my: Visa MasterCard Amex   Discover  Personal Certified Chef™ (PCC™)
Account Number: Exp Date: Amount:  Personal Certified Executive Chef ™ (PCEC™)
Billing Address:
City: State: Zip:
WY
WV
WI
WA
VT
VI
VA
UT
TX
TN
SD
SC
RI
PW
PR
PA
OR
OK
OH
NY
NV
NM
NJ
NH
NE
ND
NC
MT
MS
MP
MO
MN
MI
MH
ME
MD
MA
LA
KY
KS
IN
IL
ID
IA
HI
GU
GA
FM
FL
DE
CT
CO
CA
AZ
AS
AR
AP
AL
AK
AE
AA
Name on Account: Signature:
Congratulations! You have successfully completed the requirements for this exam. This form
If you need to cancel an exam after you have registered, you must contact both the ACF office and the test site administrator within 
two weeks of the test date. The ACF registration fee may be transferred to a new test date within six months or will be forfeited. Host  serves as your official record of participation in the ACF Certification Practical Examination.
sites may charge an additional fee that is payable to the test site administrator hosting the exam, if applicable. Host site fees are  This practical exam score is valid for one (1) year from the test date listed above. When you
separate from the amount due to the American Culinary Federation. Contact the test administrator to confirm test time, host site fee  apply for certification, please send a copy of it with your certification application.
and other specifics about the facility and/or test.

________________________________________ ________________________________________
Signature of Test Site Administrator Date

American Culinary Federation

180 Center Place Way, St. Augustine, FL 32095
Fax: (904) 940-0742 Email: [email protected]

PECRF110416

Practical Exam Registration Form Practical Exam Passing Form

Click here
www.acfchefs.org/download/documents/certify/certification/practical_exam_candidate.pdf

American Culinary Federation Education Foundation

American Culinary Federation
ACF-Approved
Recertification Application
Continuing Education Hours (CEHs) Activities

American Culinary Federation, Inc. • 180 Center Place Way • St. Augustine, FL 32095 • Toll-free: (800) 624-9458 • Fax: (904) 940-0742 • www.acfchefs.org
American Culinary Federation, Inc. • Attention: Education • 180 Center Place Way • St. Augustine, FL 32095 • Toll-free: (800) 624-9458 • www.acfchefs.org

Please complete application and email to [email protected] or mail this form and payment to the address above.

Personal Information
Activity CEHs Earned Documentation First Name: MI: Last Name: ACF #:
Professional Development Activities Home Phone: Cell Phone: Email:
ACF conferences and annual convention Hour-for-hour ACF member profile Home Address:
Industry-related conferences and trade shows Hour-for-hour Copy of registration/badge and program guide City: State: Zip:
WY
WV
WI
WA
VT
VI
VA
UT
TX
TN
SD
SC
RI
PW
PR
PA
OR
OK
OH
NY
NV
NM
NJ
NH
NE
ND
NC
MT
MS
MP
MO
MN
MI
MH
ME
MD
MA
LA
KY
KS
IN
IL
ID
IA
HI
GU
GA
FM
FL
DE
CT
CO
CA
AZ
AS
AR
AP
AL
AK
AE
AA
ACF annual convention tradeshow 4 CEHs ACF member profile Name of Employer: Present Position:
Trade/foodshow exhibits 3 CEHs (1 per year) Copy of registration/badge Name (as it should appear on certificate):
Seminars, culinary demonstrations, workshops Hour-for-hour Certificate (and program information if not pre-
approved) Certification Level
Please check level you are applying for
Culinary tastings/tours Hour-for-hour Certificate of participation (and program
information if not pre-approved)
Cooking Professionals ACF Member Rate Non-Member Rate
ACF chapter meetings/programs Hour-for-hour Certificate of participation
Certified Culinarian® (CC®) $50 $135
Formal educational courses Hour-for-hour/ Certificate of completion/transcript
Certified Sous Chef® (CSC®) $120 $270
1 semester=16 CEHs
Certified Chef de Cuisine® (CCC®) $140 $290
Employer in-service training Hour-for-hour Certificate of completion
Seminar presenter/demonstrator 5 CEHs (3 per year) Copy of program guide, link to video, or letter Certified Executive Chef® (CEC®) $210 $360
from event organizer Certified Master Chef® (CMC®) $300 $450
ACF quizzes 4 CEH for NCR quiz Confirmation letter from eCulinary
Personal Cooking Professionals ACF Member Rate Non-Member Rate
1 CEH for IOTM quiz
Personal Certified Chef™ (PCC™) $120 $270
Published works of original content See CEH Guidelines Copy of article or book title, table of contents
and publisher Personal Certified Executive Chef™ (PCEC™) $210 $360

Baking and Pastry Professionals ACF Member Rate Non-Member Rate

Leadership Activities Certified Pastry Culinarian® (CPC®) $50 $135

ACF national board members 18 CEHs per year ACF member profile Certified Working Pastry Chef® (CWPC®) $120 $270

ACF national commission/committee/taskforce and 12 CEHs per year ACF member profile Certified Executive Pastry Chef® (CEPC®) $210 $360
AAC board members Certified Master Pastry Chef® (CMPC®) $300 $450
ACF chapter officers 12 CEHs per year ACF member profile
Culinary Administrators ACF Member Rate Non-Member Rate
ACFEF accreditation site visits, postsecondary 12 CEHs per visit ACF member profile
Certified Culinary Administrator® (CCA®) $250 $400
ACFEF site visits, secondary, apprenticeship, 6 CEHs per visit ACF member profile
quality programs Culinary Educators ACF Member Rate Non-Member Rate
ACF certification practical exam evaluators/ 6 CEHs per exam ACF member profile Certified Secondary Culinary Educator® (CSCE®) $140 $290
administrators Certified Culinary Educator (CCE ) ® ® $210 $360
Advisory members on school or industry-related 6 CEHs per year ACF member profile
boards
ACF Culinary Team USA manager 30 CEHs per year ACF member profile
ACF Culinary Team USA coach, advisor 18 CEHs per year ACF member profile

Approved CEH Recertification Application

Click here Click here
www.acfchefs.org/download/documents/certify/certification/approved_cehs.pdf www.acfchefs.org/download/documents/certify/certification/Renewal_Application.pdf

23
Certified Sous Chef® ca n d i dat e h a n d b o o k

Appendices

American Culinary Federation

ACF Continuing Education Hour (CEH)
Recertification After Expiration Policy Submission Form

American Culinary Federation, Inc. • 180 Center Place Way • St. Augustine, FL 32095 • Toll-free: (800) 624-9458 • Fax: (904) 940-0742 • www.acfchefs.org
American Culinary Federation, Inc. • 180 Center Place Way • St. Augustine, FL 32095 • Toll-free: (800) 624-9458 • Fax: (904) 940-0741 • www.acfchefs.org

If expiration date is 1-3 months prior to today’s date:

As an ACF certified member, you can monitor your continuing education hours (CEHs) for recertification on your ACF Member
Certificants will be granted, upon request, a 90 day grace period, without any additional fees or requirements to complete the
Profile Page. Log in at www.acfchefs.org.
recertification process.
CEHs can be scanned, faxed, or mailed to ACF Certification Department. Electronic submissions are preferred. Please include one
If expiration date is 4-18 months prior to today’s date: (1) CEH Submission Form for each activity/document to insure proper recording. Upon approval, these CEHs will be added to your
• Refreshers up to date (all three if first cycle, sanitation only on second and subsequent cycles). member profile. Please allow 3-4 weeks for processing.
• 80 CEHs + 2 per month for each month late (after 90 day grace period).
CEH ACtivity informAtion
• Do not need to re-document work experience so it may be more than 10 years old. First Name: MI: Last Name: ACF #:
• In addition to published recertification fee, an extension fee of $25 per month for each month late, if expired 4 -18 months (after Number of CEHs requested: Date of CEH Activity:
90 day grace period) will apply.
type of Activity (please select one)
This option provides the benefit of not resubmitting some paperwork, not requiring a practical exam and the ability to recertify even
if work experience is older than 10 years. Written exam score from initial certification still valid. Refresher Course - minimum of 8 CEHs for Nutrition, Sanitation (i.e., ServSafe certificate), or Supervision
Chapter Meeting Education Employer In-Service Training
If expiration date is 19-36 months prior to today’s date:
• Refreshers up to date (all three if first cycle, sanitation only on second and subsequent cycles. Seminar/Conference Presentation/Demonstration (other than place of employment)

• 80 CEHs +2 per month for each month late (after 90 day grace period). Online Education NCR Quiz

• Do not need to re-document work experience so it may be more than 10 years old. Other:

• Practical exam required if not taken during initial certification process. Written exam score from initial certification still valid. Description of CEH Activity:

• In addition to the published recertification fee, an extension fee of $475 if 19 -27 months expired or $575 if 28 -36 months PlEAsE notE
expired will apply. • We are unable to award CEHs for volunteered time.
This option provides the benefit of not resubmitting some paperwork and the ability to recertify even if their work experience is • Transcripts should be submitted at time of Recertification (these cannot be uploaded).
older than 10 years.
• If submitting CEH documents with your Recertification application, a CEH Submission Form is not required.
If expiration date is more than 36 months prior to today’s date:
Forms are not required for the following CEHs as ACF uploads this information directly:
• Candidate must certify based on all current eligibility and testing requirements.
• ACF Competitions (Participation, Medaling, Coaching, Judging)
Once Approved • Practical Exam Evaluators & Administrators
Upon successful completion of recertification, 5 years will be added to the expired recertification date regardless of when you
• ACF National & Chapter Officers members terms
recertify within the 36 month period.
• Accreditation Site Visits
• Attendance at ACF Regional Conferences or National Convention

RAEP111717 CEHSF102716

Recertification After Expiration Policy CEH Submittal Form

Click here Click here
http://www.acfchefs.org/download/documents/certify/certification/recertification_policy.pdf www.acfchefs.org/download/documents/certify/certification/CEH_Submission.pdf

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