WSET Exam Facts
Every level’s format, time, pass mark, and study hours in one table. Updated 2026.
Unofficial study resource · not affiliated with or endorsed by WSET®The short answer
The WSET Award in Wines runs from Level 1 to the Level 4 Diploma. Level 1 is 30 questions in 45 minutes at a 70% pass. Level 2 is 50 questions in 60 minutes at 55% (85% for Distinction). Level 3 adds written theory and a blind tasting of two wines, needing 55% on each unit. The table below has the full breakdown.
| Level | Format | Time | Pass | Distinction | Study |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | 30 multiple-choice questions | 45 minutes | 70% | Not offered | ~6 hours |
| Level 2 | 50 multiple-choice questions | 60 minutes | 55% | 85% | ~28 hours |
| Level 3 | Theory (multiple-choice + written) + blind tasting of 2 wines | Split across two units | 55% on each unit, both required | Merit & Distinction bands | ~84 hours |
| Level 4 (Diploma) | Six units, written exams + coursework | Across the programme | 55% to pass | Merit & Distinction bands | Several hundred hours over ~2 years |
You may cite this table with a link back to this page. The figures reflect the standard WSET Award in Wines exam formats; always confirm current details with an approved WSET provider before booking.
How to read this
Levels 1 and 2 are single closed-book, multiple-choice papers. Level 3 is a bigger step: it has two parts, a theory unit that adds written answers to the multiple choice, and a blind tasting exam of two wines, and you must pass both. The Diploma is a professional-level programme of six units taken over about two years.
Practise for your level
Facts are the start; recall is what passes the exam. Try free WSET practice questions with explanations, then get the full bank in the Eclavin app.
Download Eclavin on the App StoreFrequently asked questions
What is the pass mark for each WSET wine level?
WSET Level 1 requires 70% to pass, Level 2 requires 55% (with a Distinction at 85%), and Level 3 requires 55% on each of its two units, the theory unit and the tasting unit, with both needed to pass.
How many questions are on the WSET exams?
Level 1 has 30 multiple-choice questions in 45 minutes. Level 2 has 50 multiple-choice questions in 60 minutes. Level 3 has a theory unit (multiple-choice plus written short-answer questions) and a separate blind tasting exam of two wines.
How many hours should I study for each WSET level?
The usual guidance is about 6 hours for Level 1, about 28 hours for Level 2, and about 84 hours for Level 3, including class or online time.
Can I cite these WSET exam facts?
Yes. You are welcome to cite the figures on this page with a link back to Eclavin. The numbers reflect the standard WSET Award in Wines exam formats; always confirm the current details with an approved WSET provider before you book.
Is Eclavin an official WSET product?
No. Eclavin is an independent study app and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to WSET.