There are four exams: three case study-based assessments and one communication exam. 

The case study exams focus on café operations, trade/roasting, and sustainability, requiring candidates to analyze a scenario, investigate possible solutions, and clearly present and defend their reasoning. 

 Throughout, emphasis is placed not only on technical knowledge but also on participants' ability to demonstrate a rigorous, thoughtful problem-solving process. 

 Some case studies will include hands-on components like sensory evaluation. 

 In the communication exam (the fourth exam), participants will be presented with several questions related to different aspects of coffee production and value that they are likely to encounter via consumers, consumer publications, and trade publications. Candidates will then asked to demonstrate their ability to translating complex topics into clear, credible and context sensitive messaging.