The diploma is also meant to foster participation in ASI beyond the sommelier contests and to encourage professional development and active involvement within member associations and ASI. It also provides opportunities to promote ASI in the global press and media, and increase the association’s involvement in the development of the profession worldwide.

Sommeliers who take the exams in a second language (French, English or Spanish) can obtain two levels of certification, according to their level of achievement: silver or gold. Since the 2019 exams, a bronze-level certificate has been made available. It requires the same level of knowledge and skills as the silver and gold diplomas, but does not require to be fluent in a foreign language. In other words, candidates whose first language is French, English or Spanish can perform in their own language and obtain a bronze diploma. Sommeliers who have obtained a bronze or silver level diploma are always welcome to sit for the exam again, and to try for silver or gold.