Q Grader

Q Arabica grader

This course is an intensive overview of the cupping skills and grading protocols required of a certified Q Arabica Grader, combined with a comprehensive evaluation of an individual’s ability to consistently cup and grade green arabica coffee. A Q Arabica Grader is a highly trained and calibrated coffee taster who evaluates coffee using SCA cupping standards and protocols.

Students successfully completing this course will be able to objectively evaluate arabica coffee based on cup quality and provide feedback on cup nuances, defects and flavors and will gain thorough understanding of the arabica cupping and grading standards and protocols, including the SCA cupping form.

This course consists of two parts: the first is a 3-day training in all activities, which is followed by a 3-day series of exams regarding the material presented. There are a total of 19 different exams taken during the course. The course includes activities to train and test the cupper’s skills in evaluating coffee using a traditional cupping format: tests include olfactory senses, green coffee grading, acid identification, basic cupping skill evaluations, sensory skills tests, and roasted coffee. The purpose of the exams is to evaluate the student’s ability to accurately and consistently cup and grade coffee according to standards set for arabica coffee by the Specialty Coffee Association.

This course is rigorous and consequently some students find it challenging to pass all 19 exams on the first try. The final day will allow participants to retake certain tests, as needed or allowed, per CQI rules and available supplies.

Certificate:
Students completing this course including passing all 19 exams, will receive a Q Arabica Grader certificate from CQI. This signifies that the individual is a highly trained and calibrated coffee taster who is able to evaluate coffee using SCA cupping standards and protocols for specialty coffee. CQI’s Q Arabica Grader certificate is valid for three years.

q robusta grader

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