The Advanced Sommelier Examination tests the Court of Master Sommeliers standards in beverage sales and service. The exam represents a significant elevation over the Certified Sommelier Examination in required experience, knowledge, and skill level.
- The examination consists of three sections:
- Theory (written)
- Tasting (verbal)
- Practical
- Hospitality and Service
- Business of the Sommelier
The Court of Master Sommeliers, Americas (CMS-A) launched a modified format for the Advanced Sommelier Examination in 2022. This evolution provides candidates with greater access to the examination and improved feedback. The new format mirrors the format of the Master Sommelier exam in which the Theory portion of the exam is separated from the Practical and Tasting portions of the exam. All three portions of the exam still must be passed in the same calendar year.
All eligible applicants are invited to sit for the Advanced Sommelier Theory examination. Upon passing the Theory portion, candidates will be invited to sit the Practical and Tasting portions later in the year.
Students applying for the Advanced Sommelier Exam will NOT be required to take the Sommelier Knowledge Assessment (SKA).
Advanced Application Process
- Applicants can only apply for the course or exam, not both. The course must be completed first.
- Application fee is $100.
- The application consists of basic questions about eligibility and employment experience.
- Letters of recommendation are not needed for ANY CMS-A programming application.
- Applications open on October 1 and close on November 1 of each year.
Advanced Sommelier Examination Eligibility
- Applicant has attended the three-day Advanced Sommelier Course at the time of submitting the application.
- Applicant must have a minimum three years of restaurant experience in a service/sales position within seven years of the date the application is submitted.
- Current employment must be in the restaurant/hospitality or beverage industry.
