WSET Level 1 exam format
The Level 1 exam is 30 multiple-choice questions with four answer options each. It covers basic wine knowledge: types of wine, major grape varieties, storage, service, and food pairing.
The exam is typically taken at the end of a one-day course. It is closed-book — no notes or materials allowed. You have 90 seconds per question on average, which is generous for the straightforward Level 1 questions.
There is no tasting exam at Level 1, although the course includes a tasting component for educational purposes.
WSET Level 2 exam format
The Level 2 exam is 50 multiple-choice questions to be completed in 60 minutes. Each question has four options, and you need 55% (28 correct) to pass.
Questions cover grape varieties, wine regions, winemaking techniques, tasting terminology, and food pairing. Some questions are straightforward recall, while others require you to apply knowledge — for example, identifying which grape variety is grown in a specific region.
Level 2 does not have a formal tasting exam, but the course includes guided tastings that help reinforce the theory material.
The exam is closed-book. At 72 seconds per question, time management is less of an issue than at Level 3, but don't linger on difficult questions.
WSET Level 3 exam format
Level 3 has two separately assessed components. You must pass both to receive the qualification.
Theory paper
The theory paper combines multiple-choice questions with short-answer written questions. The MCQ section tests broad knowledge across all topics. The written section tests your ability to describe, explain, and analyse — for example, explaining how climate and soil affect wine style in a specific region.
The pass mark is 55%. Questions are significantly more detailed than Level 2. Written answers need to use correct wine terminology and demonstrate understanding, not just recall.
Tasting exam
You taste two wines blind (labels hidden) and describe them using the WSET Level 3 Systematic Approach to Tasting (SAT). You must assess appearance, nose, palate, and provide a conclusion including quality assessment and readiness for drinking.
The tasting exam is assessed separately from the theory paper. Even if your theory is strong, you must also pass the tasting to receive the qualification.
What to expect on exam day
Arrive early
Give yourself 15-20 minutes to settle in. Rushing creates unnecessary stress.
Closed book
No notes, phones, or study materials allowed during the exam. Leave everything in your bag.
Read carefully
Many mistakes come from misreading the question. Watch for words like "most likely", "except", and "primary".
Don't leave blanks
There is no penalty for wrong answers. Always make your best guess.
Time management
Note the time per question. If you get stuck, mark it and come back. Don't spend 5 minutes on one question.
Practice under exam conditions
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