How do WSET Awards in Wine work?

You can earn a Level 1 (Beginner), Level 2 (Intermediate), or Level 3 (Advanced) Award in Wine and use these as professional designations on business cards, resumes/CVs, and on your website. Upon successful completion of Level 3, you can enroll in WSET Diploma (Expert) which is comprised of six units. Diploma takes 18 months minimum to complete, assuming no re-sits are required. You must pass Level 3 to enroll in the Diploma Program.

How do I get started / what WSET Award in Wine is right for me?

Students new to the study of wine and to WSET should begin with Level 1. Students with some wine experience can begin with Level 2. It is strongly recommended that students take and pass Level 2 or some equivalent before signing up for Level 3. Students MUST have passed Level 3 or its equivalent to enroll in the Diploma. If you’d like to discuss your situation further, feel free to contact us!

How long do WEST Certifications take?

Level 1 requires six hours of study and can be completed in one day. Level 2 requires 27 hours of study, sixteen of which are in-class sessions and eleven are outside class/personal study. Level 3 requires 30 hours of in-class sessions and 54 hours of personal study for a total of 84 hours. The Diploma course takes 18 months minimum to complete. This assumes no re-sits. Certifications are broken into courses of varying length and conclude with a final exam.

How does the WSET Online Classroom work?

Online study offers students the flexibility to complete their study at a time and place that suits them through the WSET Online Classroom managed by WSET’s digital learning team. Each course has a set start and finish date, with clear guidelines on progression, however there are no fixed times to log-on as there is no "live" delivery of content. Students can complete their learning at times that suit them.

When do classes take place?

Check our 2023-2024 calendar here. You can view by month or by list.

Where do classes take place?

We meet at the Sofitel Philadelphia, located at 120 S. 17th St, Philadelphia, PA. Students will be provided with location details after registering.

If I cannot make it to an exam, can I defer?

Yes. You must inform PhillyWine within four weeks of the exam date that you would like to defer. You can take the exam at a future date at no additional cost.

Are WSET classes offered online?

Yes! All of our in-person classes are broadcast online if you prefer distance learning or cannot physically be in class. It is highly encouraged that students come to the in-person tasting classes. We can also sign you up through the Online Classroom.

How does the WSET Online Classroom work?

Online study offers students the flexibility to complete their study at a time and place that suits them through the WSET Online Classroom managed by WSET’s digital learning team. Each course has a set start and finish date, with clear guidelines on progression, however there are no fixed times to log-on as there is no "live" delivery of content. Students can complete their learning at times that suit them.

Students will learn through a range of independent and/or group activities supported by videos and quizzes, designed to achieve the required learning outcomes to prepare for the examination.

Throughout the course, students will have access to a subject-specialist educator who’ll provide feedback on any assigned exercises and respond to course-related queries. Online students are welcome to come to live PhillyWine classes and tastings in order to have access to all the guidance they need.

Is my WSET Certification globally recognized?

Yes. WSET Awards are recognized throughout the wine and service industries, and a WSET Diploma (dipWSET) is recommended to apply for an MW or MS program.

Do you offer WSET courses in spirits and sake?

Yes. Our spirits and sake courses are offered online.

Do you offer any classes or events other than WSET Awards?

Yes! We recognize not everyone has time or interest in getting an Award. We will start offering one-off classes and tastings and special events in Academic Year 2023-24.