Evolved Q Grader Course
Official Evolved Q Grader Course – Earn the SCA License to Become an Elite Coffee Grader.
The Evolved Q Grader course is the most advanced training and certification program in the coffee world, designed by the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) to equip the most experienced professionals in the art of coffee evaluation. Over six intensive days, you will refine your theoretical understanding and practical application of Coffee Value Assessment (CVA) , the most comprehensive and modern evaluation system in the industry.
This isn't a course for beginners. It's aimed at coffee professionals with solid previous experience in cupping, sensory evaluation, and green coffee analysis. Through a rigorous program of lectures, practical activities, and exams, you'll learn to identify and document every coffee attribute, becoming a leader in the industry.
By passing all exams, you will earn the prestigious Evolved Q Grader license , a key milestone in demonstrating your excellence and expertise in coffee grading globally.
Upcoming dates:
Where:
Cost (Excluding certifications):
Milano, MI, Italia
€2500 (+VAT for companies)
October 24, 2025
October 24, 2025
Course program and objectives:
An intensive 6-day course (48 hours total) that combines theory, practice, and exams to test and certify your skills at the highest levels.
Course Objectives: What You Will Learn to Do
At the end of this course, you will be able to:
Mastering the Coffee Value Assessment (CVA): You will explain the fundamental theoretical concepts of the CVA and be able to advise on its strategic implementation in any professional context.
Conduct Comprehensive Coffee Analysis: You'll accurately perform the system's four key evaluations to create a complete "identity card" for each coffee:
Physics: You will analyze green coffee to classify its color, moisture, size, and defects.
Descriptive: You will map the sensory profile, precisely identifying the aromatic notes, the taste and the mouthfeel.
Affective: You will evaluate the quality and potential of a coffee not only according to your personal taste, but also by simulating the preferences of specific markets.
Extrinsic: You will document the “hidden” attributes that create value, such as origin, producer history, certifications, and sustainability practices.
Evaluating from Multiple Perspectives: You will apply heightened self-awareness to distinguish personal preferences from objective evaluation, learning to identify the value of a coffee for different customers and markets.
Program Structure
The course is divided into 6 intense days, each dedicated to specific modules and practical tests.
Day 1: The Foundations. Introduction to the course, review of key cupping concepts, and an introduction to the green coffee physical assessment (CVA).
Day 2: Descriptive Assessment. In-depth study of descriptive assessment (CVA), multi-perspective tastings, aroma identification, and basic taste tests. First practical exam on physical assessment.
Day 3: Discrimination Tests and Problem Solving. Triangulation exercises to hone sensory discrimination skills, roasting defect analysis, and the first practical exam on aromas.
Day 4: Affective Evaluation. We delve into the world of perceived quality assessment (CVA Affective Assessment), learning how to evaluate from different market perspectives. Practical exams on triangulation and descriptive evaluation.
Day 5: Extrinsic Assessment and Final Exams. Analysis of attributes that go beyond the cup (history, certifications) and an intensive session of practical exams on roasting issues, fundamental tastes, and affective assessment.
Day 6: Value Discovery and Final Exams. Application of all the skills learned to real-world market scenarios (Value Discovery). Final session dedicated to retakes for those who failed the exams on the first attempt.
A Demanding Path: The Exams
The course includes
Nine exams (eight practical and one written) covering all areas of expertise. The extremely high level of professionalism required is underscored by a fundamental rule:
No future retakes are allowed . Each student has a maximum of two attempts at each exam during the course week . If you fail even one exam after the second attempt, you will fail and will have to repeat the entire course.
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🎓 Why Choose Us?
Instructors with Field Experience : Our instructors are not just theorists, but active professionals in the specialty coffee industry. Each lesson is enriched with practical experience, anecdotes, and real-world solutions that prepare you to successfully enter the professional world.
Personalized Learning Paths : We understand that every student has different needs. We offer customized learning paths that adapt to your specific goals and ambitions, ensuring more effective and targeted learning.
State-of-the-art Facility : Coffee Training Academy continually invests in cutting-edge equipment and technology to ensure you receive practical, up-to-date training. You'll have access to the most modern tools, just like in a high-end roastery or coffee shop.
Globally Recognized Certifications : Certifications earned with us aren't just a piece of paper, they're a passport to success. We partner with international organizations to offer you certifications recognized and respected worldwide.
With a practical and engaging approach, our team of experts will guide you step by step, ensuring each participant gains a solid foundation in barista skills . Upon completion of the course, you will have the opportunity to earn the internationally recognized SCA certification .
🌟 Join the Coffee Community! Don't miss the opportunity to turn your passion into a profession. Whether you want to work in a trendy coffee shop or simply impress your friends with your skills, the SCA Barista Skills Basic Course is the right choice for you.