There are a variety of factors to consider including how many courses you take at once, if you take them consecutively and depending when the certification exam is available. The timing range for each certification is approximately:
To enter into this program all you require is an interest in learning more about tea. TEA 101: Introduction to Tea is the first course that all students must complete in order to take any of the remaining courses.
There is no limit on how long you can take to complete a certification. Once you complete a course it does not expire. We understand that life happens and sometime it may take longer to earn your certification.
If you’re enrolling in the online English program outside of Canada and the US, additional shipping fees apply. Please contact tracie@academyoftea.org for a quote.
The program is also available internationally at the following:
Earning any of our certifications can open doors to a variety of career paths. Graduates of the Tea Sommelier® program have launched their own tea businesses, worked in foodservice and hospitality (hotels, restaurants, tea rooms, and cafés), and secured roles in larger tea companies in areas such as research and development, marketing, and sales.
The course material is the same for both formats. You’ll complete the same readings and cuppings in both in-person and online classes—the only difference is the delivery method.
If you fail a portion of the exam, you will only need to retake that specific section. If you do not pass the blind cupping, additional shipping fees will apply to have the teas re-sent.
To use and maintain your certification, you must sign the Code of Conduct and keep your membership with the Tea & Herbal Association of Canada in good standing. The first year of membership at each respective level is included in the exam price for Tea Sommelier®, Tea Specialist, and Foodservice Tea Specialist certifications.
The annual fee for the Tea Sommelier®, Tea Specialist & Foodservice Tea Specialist is $110 CAD (+13% HST), due on April 1st of every year. If you own a tea business we also offer other membership benefits. Visit here for more details.
