Online Exams
Dog grooming exams and workshops are educational opportunities for dog groomers to learn about proper grooming techniques, dog health and safety, and other important aspects of the dog grooming profession. These exams and workshops can be a valuable way for dog groomers to improve their skills and stay up-to-date on the latest industry practices.
7863-02 – Gola Level 2: 90 minute Online Multiple Choice
This 90-minute online multiple-choice exam is designed for grooming students and professionals who wish to demonstrate their foundational knowledge and understanding of safe, effective dog grooming practices. Passing the GOLA Level 2 Exam confirms your competence in the core skills required to work confidently within the industry.
What the Exam Covers
The GOLA Level 2 Exam is a comprehensive assessment covering key areas such as:
- Dog Health & Safety: Recognising signs of common health issues and understanding emergency procedures.
- Safe Handling Techniques: Correct methods for restraining and moving different dog breeds safely.
- Fundamental Grooming Knowledge: A sound understanding of tools, equipment, hygiene, and sanitation standards.
- Legislation and Professional Standards: Awareness of the legal requirements and ethical responsibilities within the grooming profession.
Key Details
- Format: 90-minute online multiple-choice paper.
- Resources: Past papers are available on request and can be provided by your tutor to support your preparation.
- 2025 Exam Dates (Tuesdays only): 22 July, 19 August, 23 September, 21 October, 18 November, 9 December.
- Location: Available at Absolutely Animals.
Book your place now to formalise your Level 2 grooming qualification and take the next step in your professional journey.
Past papers can be provided by your tutor.
£80 Inc. VAT
7863-03 – Evolve Level 3: 09:30-11:30am
The Professional Grooming Certification Exam
The 2-hour written examination marks the culmination of your theoretical training and serves as the final step towards becoming a certified Professional Dog Groomer. This externally set and marked paper confirms your readiness to manage a grooming salon with confidence and handle complex, real-world situations.
Unlike a simple knowledge test, this assessment goes further – it requires you to apply your learning across all areas of the qualification (a synoptic assessment). You’ll face extended response questions designed to assess your ability to discuss, analyse, and evaluate professional grooming scenarios in depth.
What This Exam Demonstrates (The Important Stuff)
The Evolve Level 3 paper focuses on the advanced thinking and professional judgement essential for a successful grooming career. You’ll be assessed on:
- Advanced Health & Safety: Applying legislation and codes of practice to ensure the wellbeing of both you and the dogs in your care.
- Critical Care and Handling: The largest section of the paper, assessing your ability to carry out health checks, provide first aid (for example, treating heat stroke), and adapt grooming techniques for dogs with injuries or medical conditions (such as a cruciate ligament tear).
- Welfare and Compliance: Demonstrating full compliance with the Animal Welfare Act 2006 and understanding its five key welfare needs.
- Professional Grooming Techniques: Showing your technical understanding of styling, finishing, and coat management.
- Client Management: Managing customer interactions, payment processes, and maintaining accurate grooming records.
Key Exam Information
- Qualification: City & Guilds Level 3 Diploma in Dog Grooming (7863-03)
- Format: 2-hour written paper
- Eligibility: Open to both internal and external candidates
Upcoming Exam Dates (9:30 am start at Absolutely Animals)
- Tuesday, 10 June 2025
- Wednesday, 5 November 2025
Please Note
To ensure your registration is processed correctly, you must be registered 3 months before your chosen exam date.
Example of the written exam for the 7863-03 here!
£80 Inc. VAT
Workshops – Collect your Attendance Certificate – Only £75 – Please call to book all workshops
Other Courses
Poodle Grooming – TBC
Handling Difficult Dogs in the Salon – TBC
Please contact us if you wish to know whether these courses are planned for the near future.
Course Reviews...
Be an 
Achiever
We’re here for you, to help you get the most out of any decision you make.
