FAQs
What is WSET?
WSET is the Wine & Spirits Education Trust, founded London 1969. They design professional wine courses that are delivered through an approved network of providers - of which The Tasting Class is one of. Recognised internationally as the benchmark of wine qualifications you can’t go wrong completing a WSET course.
What is WSET Level 1
WSET Level 1 Award in Wines provides a straightforward introduction to wine with 8-9 wines tasted, 7 hrs tuition, 0 hrs home study and a 45 min multiple-choice exam, costing 1680 AED.
What is WSET Level 2?
WSET Level 2 Award in Wines is suited to those who have an interest in wine, and wish to broaden their knowledge in a structured way with 30-35 wines tasted, 18 hrs tuition across 3 days, 14 hrs home study and a 60 min multiple-choice exam costing 3675 AED.
We also have a payment plan option:
1000 AED to secure your space and have the course booklet delivered to you.
1337.50 AED 4/6 weeks before the course
1337.50 AED due before the first day of the course
If you wish to booking using the payment plan, contact our team who will support with setting this up.
What is WSET Level 3?
WSET Level 3 Award in Wines provides a detailed understanding of grape growing and wine making. Upon completion you will be able to assess wines accurately, and use your understanding to confidently explain wine style and quality with 69 wines tasted, 30 hrs tuition across 6 days, 54 hrs home study, 120 min multiple-choice & written answer exam plus 30 min blind-tasting exam costing 6750 AED.
We also have a payment plan option:
1000 AED to secure your space and have the course booklet delivered to you.
1500 AED 8 weeks before the course
2125 AED 4 weeks before the course
2125 AED due before the first day of the course
If you wish to booking using the payment plan, contact our team who will support with setting this up.
Is WSET a Sommelier qualification?
WSET courses focus on learning about wine rather than the service element. That said they provide an invaluable level of knowledge that allow you to talk about wine with some level of authority.
If you don’t want to study, take exams, or gain a professional qualification, perhaps it’s best to dip your toes by starting your wine education adventure across our Wine 101, Blind Tasting or Masterclass Events.
How many people will be on each course?
Each course runs with 12-18 students ensuring every student has the best WSET experience possible.
Do I need an understanding of wine, or prior knowledge before starting?
Basic understanding and knowledge helps but it is not essential in completing level 1.
As you advance through level 2 to 3 – this definitely helps. Level 2 requires 14 hours of home study, and level 3 requires 54 hours of study. The further you progress through WSET the more knowledge and understanding you need.
Can I skip level 1 and start at level 2, or 3?
Yes, there is no minimum pre-requirement to advance to level 2 , however, in order join the level 3 wine course it is a pre-requisite to have completed level 2 with a pass.
How long does it take?
Level 1 is a 1-day course, with an examination at the end of the day.
Level 2 is a 3-day course, with an examination at the end of the last day.
Level 3 is a 6-day course, with an examination at the end of the last day.
What time does the course start?
Level 1 and level 2 wine courses all start at 10 AM and run until 6 PM unless otherwise stated.
Level 3 wine courses all start at 9 AM and run until 6 PM unless otherwise stated.
Can I do it from home?
Our courses are all offered face to face, but we are building our online courses to release in the near future.
Are there any course materials? Is that an additional cost?
Yes, we have a study handbook which we courier out to students once they’ve registered – but fear not, as it’s included in your course costs.
Can I purchase WSET learning materials from The Tasting Class?
Yes. Study guides and learning materials for each course can be purchased separately in advance:
Level 1 – AED 120
Level 2 – AED 450
Level 3 – AED 550
If you decide to sit your WSET course with The Tasting Class this price will be deducted from the total course price on booking.
Can I sit the exam-only, or do a re-sit exam?
Exam-Only: If you have completed your course with another WSET Approved Program Provider you can transfer to The Tasting Class to sit your exam by having your current WSET Approved Program Provider email us to inform us that you have completed your hours and that they have no objection with you completing your exam with us. This does not entitle you to a refund with your current APP. Prices to sit the exam with us are listed below. Exams take place on the last day of the course. Advanced registration is required.
Re-Sit Exam: In the unlikely event, you fail your WSET exam, you can re-book on the next available course date to re-sit the exam for a minimal fee. If you are registered with another WSET Approved Program Provider we will need your personal info as well as your existing WSET Candidate number. Exams take place on the last day of the course. Advanced registration is required and subject to availability.
Level 1: AED 450 to re-sit exam
Level 2: AED 650 to re-sit exam
Level 3: AED 650 to re-sit theory exam, AED 350 to re-sit tasting exam
How long until I get my results?
Level 1 – 6-8 weeks from time of the exam
Level 2 – 6-8 weeks from time of the exam
Level 3 – 10-12 weeks from time of the exam
Please note this may vary and is subject to confirmation.
How long until I receive my certificate and pin?
Level 1 – 6-8 weeks from time of the exam
Level 2 – 6-8 weeks from time of the exam
Level 3 – 10-12 weeks from time of the exam
Please note this may vary and is subject to confirmation.
Do you offer trade discount?
Yes we do. If your are in the trade or food and beverage industry, please contact the team directly to discuss what discounts we can offer.
What is the Wine Scholar Guild?
Wine Scholar Guild is the leading provider of specialized certification programs on the wines of France, Italy and Spain with a school network spanning 30 countries and 5 continents. The Wine Scholar Study and Certification Programs offer students of wine the opportunity to specialize in the wine country of their choice. These advanced wine education program provide current, accurate and in-depth information on the wines of France, Italy and Spain. They are designed for advanced students of wine whether professionals or serious wine hobbyists.
What Wine Scholar Guild course do you offer?
We are offering the Spanish Wine Scholar which starts in October 2022 and are hoping to extend our courses to include Italian and French Wines soon.
Do you offer payment plans for the WSG course?
Yes we do! We can offer a payment plan to make it easier for you.
1000 AED to secure your space and have the course booklet delivered to you.
1460 AED 6/8 weeks before the course
1460 AED due before the first day of the course
If you wish to booking using the payment plan, contact our team who will support with setting this up.