WSET Level 1 vs Level 2: Which Should You Take?
A plain comparison of the two entry-level WSET wine qualifications. Updated 2026.
Unofficial study resource · not affiliated with or endorsed by WSET®The short answer
Choose Level 1 if you are new to wine and want a gentle, one-day introduction. Choose Level 2 if you want the qualification most employers recognise and are ready for about 28 hours of study on grape varieties, regions, and food pairing. There is no prerequisite, so you can start at Level 2 directly.
| WSET Level 1 | WSET Level 2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Exam format | 30 multiple-choice questions | 50 multiple-choice questions |
| Time limit | 45 minutes | 60 minutes |
| Pass mark | 70% (21 correct) | 55% (28 correct) |
| Distinction | Not offered | 85% (43 correct) |
| Typical study | ~6 hours (one day) | ~28 hours |
| Best for | Complete beginners | Enthusiasts & hospitality/retail |
| Main topics | Wine styles, common grapes, storage & service, simple pairing | Grape varieties, world regions, sparkling & fortified, food pairing, labels |
Who should take Level 1
Level 1 is built for people who are new to wine, whether for personal interest or a first hospitality job. It covers the main styles of wine, a handful of common grape varieties, and the basics of storing and serving. The exam is 30 multiple-choice questions in 45 minutes, and you pass at 70%. Because it is usually taught in a single day, it is a low-pressure way to find out whether you enjoy studying wine formally.
Who should take Level 2
Level 2 is the qualification most people mean when they say “the WSET course.” It goes into the principal grape varieties and why they taste the way they do, the major wine regions, sparkling and fortified wines, and the rules of food-and-wine pairing. The exam is 50 multiple-choice questions in 60 minutes, you pass at 55%, and a Distinction is awarded at 85%. Plan for roughly 28 hours of study.
How to decide
If wine is a brand-new subject and you want to ease in, start with Level 1. If you already enjoy wine and want a recognised credential, go straight to Level 2. Either way, the most efficient preparation is answering practice questions and reading the explanation on every one, so the reasoning sticks under exam conditions.
Practise for either level, free
Try free sample questions for both levels, then get the full 200-question bank, mock exams, and a wrong-answer notebook in the Eclavin app.
Download Eclavin on the App StoreFrequently asked questions
Can I skip WSET Level 1 and start at Level 2?
Yes. There is no prerequisite for WSET Level 2 in Wines, so you can start there directly. Level 1 is optional and aimed at complete beginners or people who want a gentle introduction before committing to Level 2.
Is WSET Level 2 much harder than Level 1?
It is a clear step up. Level 1 is around 6 hours of study with a 70% pass mark on 30 questions; Level 2 is around 28 hours with a 55% pass mark on 50 questions and adds grape varieties, regions, and food pairing in real depth. Most motivated beginners still manage Level 2 with structured practice.
Which WSET level is worth it for a career in wine?
For hospitality or retail roles, Level 2 is the common baseline because it covers grape varieties, regions, and service knowledge employers expect. Level 1 is a useful confidence-builder but is rarely required on its own.
How long does each level take to study?
WSET suggests roughly 6 hours of study for Level 1 and around 28 hours for Level 2, including the exam. Active recall with practice questions is the most efficient way to use that time.
Is Eclavin an official WSET product?
No. Eclavin is an independent study app and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to WSET. It is a third-party practice tool for both Level 1 and Level 2.