What Is a Q Grader in 2026? SCA Training, CVA and the CQI Transition

A Q Grader is a licensed coffee professional trained to evaluate coffee using a standardized quality-assessment framework. In 2026, the Q Grader Program is operated by the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) and is rooted in the Coffee Value Assessment (CVA).

This is different from the historical system. CQI created and operated the Q program for roughly two decades, including separate Q Arabica and Q Robusta credentials. Management transferred to SCA on October 1, 2025.

Who trains and licenses Q Graders now?

SCA operates the current Q Grader course and issues the current license. The course runs for six consecutive days and covers sensory evaluation, cupping, green coffee grading and CVA.

Candidates must pass nine assessments: eight practical assessments and one written exam. The resulting Q Grader license is valid for three years.

Is there still a separate Robusta Q Grader license?

Not in the current SCA system. The new Q Grader and instructor licenses are not species-specific. CVA is designed as a species- and process-neutral assessment framework, while physical assessment can incorporate the characteristics relevant to Canephora.

Historical Q Robusta or R-Grader credentials still matter when reading older documents. They should be identified by date and issuing system rather than treated as the current pathway.

What happened to existing CQI Q Graders?

Existing Q Arabica and Q Robusta graders were eligible for a transition path into the updated SCA program. Pre-transition credentials remained valid according to their original expiration terms, but new Q training after the transfer is an SCA program.

Why this matters to buyers

A buyer evaluating a Fine Robusta lot should not rely on the phrase “CQI Q Grader” without context. Verify the date of the evaluation, the credential held at that date, the assessment method and the lot identity.

The useful evidence is not the badge alone. It is the combination of evaluator competence, method, sample identity, physical data and sensory record.

OCC routing

This article supports the Fine Robusta grading Owner. It should not become a second Owner for grading or standards.

For broad buyer verification, continue to Fine Robusta Grading: Verify Before Cupping. For category authority, continue to Fine Robusta Cambodia.

Sources

• Specialty Coffee Association — Q Grader
• SCA/CQI Q Program transition FAQ