Diploma Coursework FAQs

DIPLOMA COURSEWORK ASSIGNMENTS

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:   I already hold a pass in one coursework assignment from last year.  What do I need to do to complete Unit 1?

A:   As you already hold a pass grade for a component of Unit 1, you are defined as a “transitional candidate” until 31 July 2010.  This means you have until this date in which to complete and pass the remaining three assignments.  If you do not achieve this, any pass grades you hold on 31 July 2010 will be transferred to the new format and you will need to complete the closed book case study examination.

Q:   I qualify as a “transitional candidate” but would prefer to switch immediately to the new assessment format for Unit 1.  Is this possible?

A:   If you do not wish to continue with the “4 coursework assignment” format until 31 July 2010, you should contact your Approved Programme Provider to enquire whether their course programme can accommodate a transfer to the new assessment format immediately.  In such cases, any pass grades currently held for Unit 1 will be transferred as explained on page 4 of the Unit 1 case study examiners' report (950KB).   

Q:   How do I know whether or not I am a “transitional candidate” for Unit 1?

A:   Transitional candidates will have registered for a programme of study commencing between 1 August 2007 and 31 July 2008 or earlier and will have sat at least one examination for the WSET Diploma qualification.  If you have registered as a Diploma candidate for a programme of study commencing AFTER 1 August 2008, you are NOT defined as a “transitional candidate”.

Q:   When can I submit my coursework assignment?

A:   Assignments can only be submitted on two dates which are set by WSET Awards.  These are in November and April.  However, you must register with your Approved Programme Provider in advance of this date.  Transitional candidates should specify which assignment title they will be submitting.  All other candidates MUST submit the assignment title assigned to each specific date.  THESE TITLES ARE NOT INTERCHANGEABLE.

Q:   If I submit an assignment and receive a fail grade, can I resubmit the same title at the next submission date?

A:   No. 

Q:   What happens if I register to submit an assignment on one of the published dates, but do not actually submit the work in time?

A:   You forfeit your examination fee and must re-register for the next available submission date and pay an additional examination fee.

Q:   I am not a transitional candidate and am registered to sit the closed book case study examination and submit the coursework assignment for November.  If I do not get my assignment completed in time, can I submit this in April instead?

A:   No.  That assignment title is valid for the November submission date only.  If you do not submit in time, you will forfeit your examination fee and will have to write a different assignment for the April submission date.

Q:   What happens if I accidentally submit the April coursework title in November?

A:   Your assignment will be returned to you ungraded.  You will forfeit your examination fee and will have to re-register and resubmit for the April submission date.

Q:   When can I expect to get the results for my Unit 1 assessment?

A:   These are issued to your Approved Programme Provider approximately 12 weeks after receipt of the scripts by WSET Awards.