Which WSET Course Is Right for Me?
Which WSET Course Is Right for Me?
Not sure where to start? This guide will help you choose the right WSET qualification based on your experience, goals, and how much time you can commit.
WSET qualifications are available in both Wine and Spirits. You can study one or both - and they don't need to be taken in any particular order across the two subjects.
WSET Wine Courses
WSET Level 1 Award in Wine
- Best for: Complete beginners, hospitality staff new to wine service, enthusiasts starting out
- Experience needed: None - no prior wine knowledge required
- Duration: 1 day
- Format: In person, Dublin
- Exam: 30 multiple-choice questions (same day)
- Outcome: WSET Level 1 Award in Wine
WSET Level 2 Award in Wine
- Best for: Those who want a solid, structured wine knowledge base for work or personal interest
- Experience needed: None required - Level 1 is not a prerequisite
- Duration: 3 days
- Format: In person, Dublin and Cork
- Exam: 50 multiple-choice questions (final day)
- Outcome: WSET Level 2 Award in Wine
WSET Level 3 Award in Wine
- Best for: Wine professionals, sommeliers, and serious enthusiasts seeking advanced qualification
- Experience needed: WSET Level 2 or equivalent knowledge strongly recommended
- Duration: 6 days (over 3–6 weeks) + approx. 51.5 hours private study
- Format: In person, Dublin
- Exam: Written paper + blind tasting (final day)
- Outcome: WSET Level 3 Award in Wine
WSET Spirits Courses
WSET Level 1 Award in Spirits
- Best for: Complete beginners, bar staff new to spirits, enthusiasts starting out
- Experience needed: None - no prior spirits knowledge required
- Duration: 1 day
- Format: In person, Dublin
- Exam: 30 multiple-choice questions (same day)
- Outcome: WSET Level 1 Award in Spirits
WSET Level 2 Award in Spirits
- Best for: Bar professionals, retail staff, and enthusiasts wanting in-depth spirits knowledge
- Experience needed: None required - Level 1 is not a prerequisite
- Duration: 3 days
- Format: In person, Dublin
- Exam: 50 multiple-choice questions (final day)
- Outcome: WSET Level 2 Award in Spirits
WSET Level 3 Award in Spirits
- Best for: Spirits professionals, brand ambassadors, and advanced enthusiasts
- Experience needed: WSET Level 2 Spirits or equivalent industry experience strongly recommended
- Duration: 8 days (classroom + virtual) + approx. 52 hours private study
- Format: Mixed in-person and Zoom, Dublin
- Exam: Theory paper + blind tasting (final day)
- Outcome: WSET Level 3 Award in Spirits
Still Not Sure?
If you're unsure which level is right for you, we're happy to help. Get in touch and we'll point you in the right direction based on your background and goals.
Training a team? Visit our dedicated team training page for group booking options.
