Applications now open for the Applelotter WSET Scholarships 2026

Wednesday, 18 February, 2026

IWEC

The International Wine Education Centre announces that applications are now open for the Applelotter WSET Scholarships 2026.

The International Wine Education Centre (IWEC) is delighted announce that applications are now open for the Applelotter WSET Scholarships 2026.

The Applelotter Scholarships were set up by two wine-loving Australians who visited South Africa and were blown away by the enthusiasm of the young people working in the wine service industry. Appreciating the challenges faced by many, they decided to establish a Scholarship to assist with wine education, providing opportunities that would otherwise not be available.

The Applelotter Scholarships will benefit four students in 2026 providing 2 FULL scholarships on WSET Level 2 in Wines (worth R10 500 each) and 2 FULL scholarships on WSET Level 3 in Wines (worth R16 500 each). It is hoped that these scholarships will enable four deserving students to take their careers to new heights.

The scholarship applications are open now and all details of the criteria can be found below. Applications close at the end of April 2026 with successful students being informed by 15 May 2026, ready to start their courses in July.

The WSET Level 2 Award in Wines scholarships

This is our most popular course, opening the door to international careers as well as local opportunities. Thanks to their generosity, the Applelotter Scholarship is pleased to cover the full cost of 2 students on the WSET Level 2 in Wine course in July 2026 in Stellenbosch.

Requirements

You have passed WSET Level 1 in Wines or hold an equivalent qualification.
You are from an historically disadvantaged community.
You are committed to attend all lectures and the examination on the specific dates below in Stellenbosch.
You are motivated to make a difference in the wine industry in Africa.

Course details

Course dates: Monday 27 and Tuesday 28 July 2026
Course times: 08h30 - 17h00
Exam date: Monday 10 August 2026
Venue: Klein Joostenberg, Stellenbosch

The WSET Level 3 Award in Wines Scholarships

This is a challenging and high-level course and you will need to devote a considerable amount of time outside of the classroom in order to make sure of your success. Once again, the Applelotter Scholarship will cover the full cost of 2 students on the WSET Level 3 in Wine course in July 2026 in Stellenbosch.

Requirements

You have passed WSET Level 2 in Wines with a Merit or Distinction grade.
You can write and communicate well in English.
You are from an historically disadvantaged community.
You are committed to attend all lectures and exams on the specific dates below in Stellenbosch.
You are motivated to make a difference in the wine industry in Africa.