Evolved Q Grader Certification
Earn coffee's highest certification in sensory skills and coffee analysis.
In-Person | 7 Days | Certification Included
Become a Certified Q Grader
Certification Process
- 8 practical exams including on CVA assessments
- 1 online written exam
- Two attempts to pass each exam during the course
- Passing all exams earns students official Q Grader certification
What's Included
Course Materials
- All coffees for cupping sourced from diverse origins
- Calibration sets and sensory references
- Printed Coffee Value Assessment (CVA) forms and exam sheets
Instruction & Exams
- Six full days of guided lectures, labs, and calibration sessions
- 9 exam components with two attempts each during course
- Direct feedback and facilitation from an authorized Q Instructor
Support & Certification
- Certification processing fees included (no hidden charges)
- Certification from the SCA upon successful completion of the course
Venue & Supplies
- All cupping bowls, spoons, trays, water, and evaluation equipment provided
- Comfortable cupping environment
- Lunches and snacks
Advance Your Profession
Who Should Attend
- Aspiring and current coffee professionals
- Roasters, buyers, and quality managers
Schedule & Location
- 9:00am to 5:00pm each day
- Timberline Coffee School, Calgary
Pricing
Meet Your Instructor
Trent Rollings
Q Instructor, Accredited SCA Trainer, Coffee Competition Judge
Trent is the founder of Timberline Coffee School, a certified SCA trainer, and a World Coffee Championships Representative and Judge. With over a decade of international experience in coffee education and competition, Trent brings deep industry insight and a passion for helping others grow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who should take this course?
This course is designed for experienced coffee professionals such as roasters, green coffee buyers, quality managers, cuppers, and anyone responsible for evaluating and sourcing coffee. It’s intended for those already comfortable with cupping and sensory evaluation who want to formalize their expertise with the highest credential in coffee.
Do I need prior experience before enrolling?
Yes. The Q Grader course is not an introduction to coffee cupping. Participants should already have solid sensory skills, be comfortable with standard cupping protocols, and have experience evaluating roasted coffee. This preparation increases your chances of passing the exams.
How long is the course?
The course runs for six days in sets of three days with one day off in between the sets. The course has a minimum of 48 hours of instruction, practice, and exams. Each day includes both practical cupping sessions and theory components.
What certification do I receive?
Participants who pass all 8 practical exam and the online written exam earn the Q Grader Certification. This is the highest global credential for sensory evaluation and coffee analysis, recognized across the specialty coffee industry.
What happens if I don’t pass all the exams?
Each exam can be attempted twice during the course window. If you do not pass the exams, then you need to retake the course.
What exams are included?
There are 8 practical exams in total, covering:
- Cupping Skills
- Physical Assessment
- Olfactory Category Examples
- Descriptive Assessment
- Triangulation
- Roasting Problems
- Main Taste Solutions
- Affective Assessment
Additionally, there is an online written exam that covers the theoretical content of the course.
How will this certification help my career?
The Q Grader credential sets you apart as an authority in coffee quality. It opens doors for roles in green buying, sourcing, roasting, and quality control, and demonstrates to employers and peers that you’ve achieved the industry’s highest level of sensory expertise.
How many people are in a class?
Our courses range from 6–12 participants, with a minimum of six required for valid descriptive cupping exercises. This ensures group calibration while keeping the environment interactive and focused.
What should I bring?
We’ll provide all coffees, cupping supplies, and exam materials. Just bring a notebook, comfortable clothing for sensory work, and your full focus—this is an intensive week.
Where is the course held?
The course is hosted at Timberline Coffee School in Calgary. Venue details and logistics will be emailed to you after registration.
