28. WSET Level 3: What to Expect from the Course and the Exam

Resources & Links

• Sign up for the Wine Educate Newsletter: www.wineeducate.com/newsletter-signup

• Launchpad: Level 3 Prep Course: www.wineeducate.com/launchpad

How to Contact Us

• Website: www.wineeducate.com

• Email: joanne@wineeducate.com

• Instagram & Facebook: @wineeducate

Thinking about taking WSET Level 3 but not sure what you're signing up for? In this episode, host Joanne Close walks you through how the course is structured, what the exam includes, and how different course formats (in-person, online, accelerated) might affect your learning experience.

If you've been on the fence or want to know what's expected before you enroll, this episode will give you a clear picture.

What's in This Episode?

1. What the Course Covers
Deeper exploration of viticulture and winemaking
Key grape varieties and wine styles
Major wine-producing regions and how natural and human factors impact wine
Expanded SAT tasting technique with more complexity
Focus on interconnecting concepts for essay writing and tasting

2. Course Formats and Scheduling
Standard Format: One 2-hour class per week for 15 weeks
Accelerated Format: Two classes per week over 8 weeks
Online Option: 9-week online modules with an in-person tasting calibration and exam

3. Exam Structure
Tasting Exam: 30 minutes to assess two wines (white and red)
Theory Exam: 2 hours with 50 multiple choice questions and 4 short essay-style questions
Written portion is in-depth—expect around eight printed pages
You must take the exam in person due to the tasting component

4. Why Preparation Before Class Matters
Regardless of format, students need to prepare before the first class
Trying to catch up between sessions can create panic and stress
Students are often surprised by how quickly the course moves

5. The Importance of Class Participation
Level 3 is discussion-heavy—expect to speak and be questioned
Instructors act more like coaches, guiding you through analysis and critical thinking
You'll be asked "why" constantly to build your ability to explain and connect concepts

6. Understanding vs. Memorizing
Level 3 success is about comprehension and application, not just rote memorization
The more prepared you are ahead of time, the more you'll get from the in-class experience

Next Episode – Episode 29
Joanne shares practical strategies for preparing for WSET Level 3 without feeling overwhelmed. Learn how to set yourself up for success before the course even begins.

Resources & Links

• Sign up for the Wine Educate Newsletter: www.wineeducate.com/newsletter-signup

• Launchpad: Level 3 Prep Course: www.wineeducate.com/launchpad

How to Contact Us

• Website: www.wineeducate.com

• Email: joanne@wineeducate.com

• Instagram & Facebook: @wineeducate