Admissions

Begin Your Studies

We seek intellectual curiosity above prior expertise. Palate training can be taught; genuine interest cannot.

What We Look For

Admission Requirements

The Institute is selective but not exclusive. We admit students at all levels of prior knowledge.

All applicants must be of legal drinking age in their jurisdiction.

  • —A sincere curiosity about what makes a great spirit great
  • —Willingness to take structured tasting notes and defend your conclusions
  • —No prior expertise required at Foundation level
  • —Advanced programs require a completed prerequisite or portfolio review
  • —Doctoral candidates must submit a 500-word research statement
  • —Demonstrated ability to disagree collegially and not take it personally
Academic Year

The Calendar

Autumn TermSeptember – NovemberPrimary intake. Most programs begin here.
Winter IntensiveJanuaryConcentrated single-week format for selected programs.
Spring TermMarch – MaySecond intake; most intermediate and advanced programs.
Summer SeminarJulyDoctoral and advanced students only.

Enroll Now

Rolling Admissions · Next Cohort: Autumn Term

Create your O.B.I. account, browse the programs, and enroll directly through your student dashboard. No application required for Foundation and Intermediate programs.

Create Your AccountBrowse Programs First

For Doctoral program enquiries, or if you have prior experience you'd like reviewed, write to us at admissions@oakandbarrelinstitute.com

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Frequently Asked

Questions About Admission

Do I need prior experience?

None whatsoever for Foundation programs. We have admitted engineers, novelists, accountants, and at least one retired civil servant who described his prior knowledge as "I know what I like." That is sufficient.

Is there an age requirement?

All students must be of legal drinking age in their jurisdiction. We do not make exceptions, even for people who are clearly very mature for their age.

Are programs online or in-person?

Most programs are in-person. Hybrid formats are noted in the program listing. We believe tasting together in the same room produces better scholarship than tasting alone.

Can I audit a seminar?

Occasional auditing arrangements are possible for prospective students. Contact the admissions office. Note that auditors are still expected to take notes.

What happens if I disagree with a professor?

You are encouraged to say so. Clearly and with evidence. This is the entire point.

Is there a tuition fee?

Yes. Program fees vary by duration and format. Details are shown on each program page. We are not a free institution, but we are a serious one.