SCA Barista Intermediate Practice Test 2026 - Free Barista Exam Practice Questions and Study Guide

Prepare for the SCA Barista Intermediate Test with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Each question includes hints and explanations to help you succeed in your certification exam!

Start a fast session now. When you’re ready, unlock the full question bank.

Start practice test Flash cards

Question of the day

What is the likelihood that a barista will waste coffee and milk in their daily operations?

Unlock the full question bank

This demo includes a limited set of questions. Upgrade for full access and premium tools.

Full question bankFlashcardsExam-style practice

Unlock now

Start fast

Jump into multiple-choice practice and build momentum.

Start practice

Flashcards mode

Fast repetition for weak areas. Flip and learn.

Start flashcards

Study guide

Prefer offline? Grab the PDF and study anywhere.

Buy for $10.99

What you get with Examzify

Quick, premium practice, designed to keep you moving.

Unlock full bank

Instant feedback

See the correct answer right away and learn faster.

Build confidence with repetition.

Improve weak areas

Practice consistently and tighten up gaps quickly.

Less noise. More focus.

Mobile + web

Practice anywhere. Pick up where you left off.

Great for short sessions.

Exam-style pace

Build speed and accuracy with realistic practice.

Train like it’s test day.

Full bank unlock

Unlock all questions when you’re ready to go all-in.

No ads. No distractions.

Premium experience

Clean, modern UI built for learning.

Focused prep, start-to-finish.

About this course

Premium, focused exam preparation, built for results.

The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Barista Intermediate Test is an essential step for coffee enthusiasts aiming to elevate their skills and gain professional validation in the art of coffee making. Obtaining this certification not only enhances your coffee knowledge but also increases your employability within the coffee industry.

This test is designed to build upon fundamental barista skills and delve deeper into the nuances of espresso extraction, milk texturing, and coffee menu development.

Understanding the Exam Format

Structure of the Test

The SCA Barista Intermediate Test is structured to assess both theoretical understanding and practical competencies. It is divided into several parts:

Theoretical Exam: Generally, a multiple-choice questionnaire assessing your knowledge of coffee origins, processing, brewing methods, and equipment maintenance.
Practical Exam: This section scrutinizes your ability to expertly pull an espresso, flawlessly texture milk, and create a signature coffee beverage.

What to Expect

Expect the exam to cover a blend of theoretical and practical topics, including:

Espresso Theory and Techniques: Understanding how variations in grinding, tamping, and extraction impact flavor.
Milk Techniques and Foam: Crafting perfect microfoam and using it effectively in latte art.
Sensory Skills: Developing an ability to taste and describe coffee flavors and defects accurately.
Equipment Maintenance: Knowing the regular procedures for cleaning and maintaining espresso machines and grinders to ensure consistency and quality.
Customer Service: Combining technical skills with customer interaction to create engaging coffee experiences.

Tips for Passing the Exam

Comprehensive Study

Achieving success on the SCA Barista Intermediate Test requires dedication and thorough preparation:

Review the Specialty Coffee Association Training Modules: These offer a solid foundation that the exam builds upon.
Hands-On Practice: Regularly practicing your barista skills on professional equipment to become comfortable with the operations required during the test.
Participate in Coffee Cupping Sessions: Enhance your palate by tasting different coffee profiles and understanding the impact of different roast levels and origins.

Practice with Online Resources

Consider utilizing online resources, such as Examzify, that offer practice tests mirroring the exam’s format and question style:

Engage with quizzes that simulate the exam conditions.
Review explanatory notes and hints that accompany practice questions to improve your understanding.
Use flashcards to memorize essential coffee terminology and concepts.

Group Study and Simulation

Studying in groups can be highly beneficial:

Partner with fellow baristas to exchange knowledge and simulate real-world scenarios.
Set up mock exam conditions to get familiar with time management during the practical tests.

The Value of Certification

Passing the SCA Barista Intermediate Exam signifies your commitment to quality and standards within the specialty coffee industry. It is an internationally recognized credential that can open doors to new opportunities and career growth. Certification affirms your skills in crafting exceptional coffee and enhances your credibility among peers and employers.

Through systematic study, immersive practice, and leveraging resources effectively, you can navigate the path to certification successfully. Take pride as you progress from foundational knowledge to this intermediate level of expertise, setting the stage for further mastery in the field of specialty coffee.

Embark on your journey to barista mastery today by engaging with the comprehensive materials and practice tests available. Good luck on your path to becoming an SCA certified Barista!

FAQs

Quick answers before you start.

What are the eligibility requirements to take the SCA Barista Intermediate Exam?

To sit for the SCA Barista Intermediate Exam, you should have completed the SCA Barista Skills Foundation course or possess equivalent experience. Understanding coffee preparation methods and espresso basics is vital. Check resources or manuals from the SCA to ensure you're well-prepared for the exam.

Go ad-free & more with Examzify Plus

What types of questions can I expect on the SCA Barista Intermediate Exam?

The SCA Barista Intermediate Exam consists of both theoretical and practical questions covering areas such as coffee brewing techniques, sensory skills, and equipment maintenance. Familiarizing yourself with these topics will enhance your chances for success. Consider reputable resources to solidify your knowledge.

Start multiple choice practice test

How long does the SCA Barista Intermediate Exam take to complete?

The SCA Barista Intermediate Exam typically lasts between two to three hours, encompassing both a written assessment and a hands-on evaluation. Being well-prepared can streamline your exam experience. Utilize comprehensive study guides to get the most out of your preparation.

Dive in with Examzify Plus

What support resources are recommended for preparing for the SCA Barista Intermediate Exam?

Several study resources can assist you in your exam preparation, including SCA’s official textbooks and online platforms dedicated to barista skills. Engaging with practice content is essential to ensure you understand key concepts and techniques, and many find the online course offerings particularly helpful.

What salary can a certified barista expect to earn in the U.S.?

Certified baristas typically earn an average salary of around $38,000 annually in the U.S., though this can vary based on experience and location. Pursuing the SCA Barista Intermediate certification can enhance job prospects and lead to potential salary increases, reflecting proficiency in the field.

Get your premium subscription

Reviews

See what learners say.

4.45

33 reviews

Rating breakdown

95%

of customers recommend this product

Carlos M.
The content quality is honestly impressive. I’m in the midst of my studying journey, and it’s refreshing to have such well-thought-out questions to work with. The app's interface is user-friendly too, making it easy for me to squeeze in study sessions. I can’t wait to utilize this knowledge when I take the test!
Mohammed A.
Still learning, but so far, I’d rate it a solid 4. The flashcards really help me visualize concepts, and the question types vary enough to keep me from getting bored. My confidence grows with every session. I’m excited to finally challenge myself when I take the actual exam!
Sofia Chang
As a novice, I found the entire experience enlightening. Even though I’m still learning, the flashcards have been a phenomenal way to reinforce my understanding. I feel optimistic about my progress and know I have the right tools to succeed in the exam!