FAQs

General / Course Info

What is WSET and what does it stand for?

The Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET and WSET Awards) is an awarding body and registered charity devoted to the development and delivery of qualifications and courses in wines and spirits. Established in 1969 for the UK wine trade, WSET has since grown to become the global industry leader.

Why Study at Wine Enthusiast Academy

Wine Enthusiast has been the foremost authority on wine for the last 40 years. We taste more, and know more about, wine than any other wine company in the industry. Thanks to our partnership as an Approved Program Provider with the WSET®, a globally recognized leader in international wine certification, we provide a wine education that is standardized throughout the world so your credentials will be universal.

How does a Wine Education help my career?

Wine education benefits both enthusiasts and those already employed in the wine industry, or those seeking to enter the industry. From restaurant servers, to wine retail sales people to wine marketing individuals to anyone looking to enter the wine world, a wine education is a great asset to possess. Increased knowledge, particularly from the globally recognized and respected WSET, and the ability to communicate more enthusiastically and accurately about wine can lead to an increase in sales for those working in restaurants (tips), retail, distribution or importation.

Do I have to be in the wine industry to take these classes?

Not at all! WSET® Level 1 Award in Wines and WSET® Level 2 Award in Wines are meant for both the at home wine lover or the wine professional looking to increase their wine knowledge and credibility.

Can I skip the WSET® Level 1 Award in Wines and begin directly with the WSET® Level 2 Award in Wines?

Yes, you can. However, if you have had limited or no formal exposure to wine we certainly recommend starting with our WSET® Level 1 Award in Wines. We think you will really enjoy the experience as well as learn some of the very important basics of wine, wine production, storage and service.

What is the class structure?

Once the class begins and you receive your login, you can complete the course modules at your own pace during the 4 week period noted in your course module until the exam date. You are not required to take class at any particular time other than for the exam date and time (time will be provided during the course) listed OR for the optional guided tasting which comes with your wine sampler purchase.

When will I receive my study materials?

WSET® Level 1 Award in Wines students receive The WSET® Level 1 Award in Wines Study Guide as part of your online study content.

Study Guide: An Introduction to Wine

Please note that online classes require separate purchase of wine for tasting. We have a special exclusive WSET Level 1 in Wine Tasting sampler available at our wine shop partner. Purchases of the sampler also include a Bonus live tasting with our VP of Sales & Wine Education, Marshall Tilden III*.

* While anyone can purchase the wine sampler for this online course, only registered students will be able to attend the WSET Level 1 guided tasting.

WSET® Level 2 Award in Wines students receive a study book that is delivered electronically. Access codes and instructions will be emailed to students at the start of the course. Students who prefer a physical study pack can request to purchase one for $119.

Can I take an exam without enrolling in and attending a course?

No, in order to sit for an exam you must have been enrolled, and attended, in the course. The only time that you can register for just an exam is when you are re-sitting a failed exam.

Exam Info

Can I sit my exam at a later date?

If you are unable to take the exam on the date listed, you may reschedule your exam date with three week’s notice to wset@wineenthusiast.net. Failure to do so will result in a re-sit fee. Level 1 re-sit fee = $149 Level 2 re-sit fee = $299

You may schedule an in-person paper exam in NYC by withdrawing from your scheduled remote exam with three weeks prior notice and requesting an alternate exam format and date.

What happens if I’m ill on the day of my exam?

You can apply for a deferral under our Special Considerations policy. You will need to supply relevant documentation to our student service department at wset@wineenthusiast.net.

What happens if there are technical difficulties during my remote/online exam?

In the event of technical issues during the remote/online exam, a no-charge resit is only available if the candidate has completed their system check at least 7 days in advance. If you do experience technical issues, you will be asked to fill out a form to explain the situation and ensure the system check was completed, and WSET Exams will determine if a free resit can be provided. Alternatively, a resit for the exam can always be scheduled for a fee.

When will I receive my results?

For WSET® Level 1 Award in Wines and WSET® Level 2 Award in Wines qualifications, results will be issued 4-6 weeks from the date you sat your examination.

The extended time to receive results is for the Exams group at WSET to review the video of the exam for quality assurance

What happens if I fail an exam?

You can re-sit any failed exam by completing the relevant re-sit examination booking form. To do so, please email Marshall Tilden III.

Can I join the next level before my results come back from the previous level?

Yes, you can sign up for the WSET® Level 2 Award in Wines without WSET® Level 1 Award in Wines exam results.

Payment / Cancellations

Can I spread my payments out?

All payments for WSET® Level 1 Award in Wines and WSET® Level 2 Award in Wines are due in full at the time of registration.

Do you keep credit card information on file?

No, for security reasons we do not keep credit card information on file.

Are there any accommodations for students with physical or special educational needs?

Classes are conducted in handicap accessible facilities. If you have any other physical or special educational needs please let us know so we can attempt to make any reasonable accommodations as needed.

Click here to learn more about our policies regarding reasonable adjustments.

What is your cancelation / refund policy?

Cancellation and 100% refunds are allowed 2 weeks prior to the course commencement date. After this point in time, tuitions become nonrefundable. Requests should be submitted by email.

Wine Enthusiast Academy does not refund missed classes. Full refunds will be given in the event of low registrations.