Q Grader pathway and calibration
The steps to become a Licensed Q Grader, the global standard for professional coffee tasters, and the role of ongoing calibration in maintaining certification.
- Coffee Basics Nerds
- 2 min read
Article 2 of 12 in Careers, Certifications & Competitions/
What is a Q Grader?
- A Q Grader is a coffee professional certified to evaluate arabica (and robusta, via R Grader) using the SCA cupping system.
- Credential issued by the Coffee Quality Institute (CQI).
- Provides a standardized framework for cupping, scoring, and classifying coffee quality.
Pathway to Certification
- Pre-Course Preparation:
- Strong sensory experience recommended.
- Familiarity with SCA cupping, flavor wheel, and sensory vocabulary.
- Training Course (6 Days):
- Days 1–3: Instruction and practice.
- Days 4–6: Exams (sensory and theory).
- Exams (19 in total):
- Sensory Skills: Olfactory recognition, taste modality matching, triangulations.
- Cupping Skills: Consistency, accuracy in SCA form scoring.
- Green/roast grading: Defect identification.
- General Knowledge: Coffee production, processing, and quality systems.
- Certification:
- Passing all exams grants a Q Grader license, valid for 36 months.
Calibration & Renewal
- Q Graders must attend calibration sessions every 3 years to maintain license.
- Calibration ensures:
- Consistency across global Q Graders.
- Alignment with current SCA protocols.
- Adjustments to evolving industry standards.
- Calibration involves:
- Group cuppings with standardized reference samples.
- Comparing and aligning scores with CQI-approved instructors.
Why It Matters
- Q Graders provide trusted, standardized assessments in trade.
- Used by exporters, importers, and roasters for quality verification.
- Builds credibility in direct trade and specialty coffee sourcing.
Challenges
- Intensive exam structure with high failure rate.
- Requires ongoing practice and sensory discipline.
- Travel and costs can be prohibitive.
Summary
The Q Grader pathway involves intensive training and 19 exams over 6 days, followed by recalibration every 3 years. This system ensures that licensed Q Graders worldwide maintain consistency, reliability, and credibility in assessing coffee quality.