Guidance

MIN 690: Guidance on the MCA Oral Examination Booking, the Issue of Notices of Eligibility (NOEs) and the Online Oral Examination Processes - Amendment 5

Updated 3 June 2025

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This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/min-690-guidance-on-the-mca-oral-examination-booking-the-issue-of-notices-of-eligibility-noes-and-the-online-oral-examination-processes/min-690-guidance-on-the-mca-oral-examination-booking-the-issue-of-notices-of-eligibility-noes-and-the-online-oral-examination-processes

Notice to all Shipowners, Owners, Masters, Officers, Cadets, and those concerned with maritime training.

This notice replaces MIN 690 Amendment 4.

This MIN expires 30 June 2026.

1. Introduction

  1. The Notice of Eligibility (NOE)/Notice of Assessment (NOA) format has been updated, and candidates will no longer receive a document in PDF format.
  2. The online oral examination booking process has been amended to take account of the changes highlighted in this MIN.
  3. Online oral examinations and Part B: online oral examinations will now be recorded to provide objective evidence in the event of candidate appeal or an examiner’s concern over a candidate’s conduct.
  4. The Officer of the Watch (OOW) Unlimited, II/1, and the Master (code vessels less than 200 GT)/Officer of the Watch (yachts less than 500 GT) oral examinations will now consist of a Part A: online computer-based proctored examination and a Part B: online oral examination.
  5. UKLAP 1 exams will be a computer-based assessment with multiple choice questions on the maritime legal and administrative procedures in the UK (see section 13).

2. Microsoft Teams-based oral examinations

Following the successful implementation of Microsoft Teams-based online oral examinations in 2020, the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) has decided to retain this format to maintain the flexibility and convenience it provides for seafarers. Excluding exceptional circumstances, agreed with the Chief Examiner, all parts of MCA oral examinations will be delivered through an online platform.

2.1 It is recommended that the examination software is launched on devices such as laptops, desktop computers or tablets (iPad) equipped with the current updated software version. Please note the examination cannot be accessed via mobile phone. The laptop, PC or tablet/iPad must have a reliable high-speed internet connection sufficient for Microsoft Teams, with audio and video facility to be successfully supported (recommended minimum 10 Mbps).

3. Changes to the structure of the MCA Officer of the Watch (OOW) Unlimited, II/1, and Master (code vessels less than 200 GT)/Officer of the Watch (yachts less than 500 GT) online oral examination

The MCA OOW Unlimited, II/1, and the Master (code vessels less than 200 GT)/Officer of the Watch (yachts less than 500 GT) online oral examinations, will consist of the following elements:

  • Part A: online computer-based, proctored examination, and
  • Part B: online oral examination.

Part A of the examination will be an integral part of the assessment for the MCA OOW Unlimited, II/1, and the Master (code vessels less than 200 GT)/Officer of the Watch (yachts less than 500 GT) Certificate of Competency (CoC).

All OOW Unlimited, II/1, candidates with a Notice of Eligibility (NOE) issued from 01 May 2023 must successfully complete Part A before being able to book Part B of the examination.

All Master (code vessels less than 200 GT)/Officer of the Watch (yachts less than 500 GT) candidates with a Notice of Eligibility (NOE) issued from 02 April 2024, must successfully complete Part A before being able to book Part B of the examination.

All Part A Pass result will be valid for 1 year.

The purpose of the Part A examination is to assess fundamental topics of the oral examination syllabus[footnote 1]and to give both the candidate and examiner confidence that the candidate has the knowledge required to undertake the Part B examination.

Questions in both parts of the examination may be drawn from any part of the respective syllabus detailed in MIN 653 (M) Amendment 1.

Only candidates for the OOW Unlimited, II/1, and the Master (code vessels less than 200 GT)/Officer of the Watch (yachts less than 500 GT) CoC are currently required to undertake the Part A examination.

4. The Notice of Eligibility (NOE)/Notice of Assessment (NOA) process

Currently, candidates can apply for an NOE or NOA by using the appropriate application form and following the guidance in the associated Marine Notices.

4.1 Application forms and associated Marine Notices

Quick Reference Application Form (including link) M-Notice Number (including link)
Deck Officers MSF 4274 MSN 1856 Amendment 1
Engineer Officers MSF 4275 MSN 1857 Amendment 1, MIN 511 Amendment 1
Fishing Deck MSF 4345 MGN 411
Yacht Deck Officers MSF 4343 MSN 1858 Amendment 1
Electro-technical Officers (ETOs) MSF 4259 MSN 1860 Amendment 1
Tugs (Deck) MSF 4260 MGN 495
Workboats (Deck) MSF 4257 MGN 496
Small Vessel Engineers (including Fishing Eng.) MSF 4900 MSN 1904, MIN 642

Candidates who meet the requirements, will be issued with an NOE/NOA in electronic form, as an email.

If you are required to submit your Training Record Book (TRB), the full physical book should be sent to the Seafarer Services Branch (to the address provided in the ‘more information’ section of this MIN).

Candidates must retain scanned copies of the overview signature pages from the TRB as these may be required during the online oral examination. In the case of e-TRB, you must submit this to MCA after all necessary checks have been completed by all parties.

5. The online oral examination booking process for candidates other than Officer of the Watch (OOW) Unlimited Reg II/1, and Master (code vessels less than 200 GT)/ Officer of the Watch (yachts less than 500 GT)

The NOE/NOA email will contain a link to the booking form for the online oral examination.

The oral examination appointment email will include:

  • the Candidate Code of Conduct
  • the information on recording of the online oral examination
  • instructions for the use of ‘Microsoft Teams’
  • a Radar Plotting Sheet (if required) and
  • a unique PIN to access the online booking form.

The NOE/NOA email will state the exam type the candidate is eligible for. Candidates should check that the exam type is correct upon receipt of the link and before accessing the online booking system to select a date and time for their online oral examination. In the event that the examination type is incorrect, candidates should email Seafarer Services at deck@mcga.gov.uk, engineering@mcga.gov.uk or fse@mcga.gov.uk as appropriate.

6.  The online oral examination booking process for Officer of the Watch (OOW) Unlimited, II/1, and Master (code vessels less than 200 GT)/Officer of the Watch (yachts less than 500 GT) candidates

6.1 Part A: online computer-based proctored examination booking process

A link, username, and password providing access to the Part A examination will be provided within the NOE email. On receipt of this link, the Part A examination can be taken at any time.

The unique username and password are only for the individual use of each candidate and must not be shared with any third party. If it comes to the attention of the MCA that the “username and password” have been forwarded to a third party, the MCA reserves the right to cancel the exam, without refund and refuse the issue of any further examination access to the candidates involved.

6.2 Part B: online oral examination booking process

OOW Unlimited, II/1, and Master (code vessels less than 200 GT)/Officer of the Watch (yachts less than 500 GT) candidates will be eligible to take the Part B examination once they have passed the Part A examination.

Upon passing the Part A examination, the MCA will allocate the candidate a Part B examination slot. If no Part B booking confirmation email is received, candidates should contact the Exams Team via email at exams@mcga.gov.uk.

The allocated Part B examination slot will only be amended in exceptional circumstances and, as such, candidates should only undertake the Part A examination when they are prepared to accept the allocated Part B examination date.

If the candidate does not accept the allocated examination slot, they will need to go through the online oral examination booking service to pick an available date suitable for their personal circumstance and convenience.

The Part B examination must be completed within 12 months of passing the Part A examination.

When contacting the Exams Team, candidates must use the same email address that will be used to access their examination. Changes to their email address will result in the examination being cancelled and a new booking will need to be made.

Candidates who need to amend or update their email address should not forward on the link from an old email address to a new one. They must inform the Online Oral Exams Team of their new email address via email at onlineoralexams@mcga.gov.uk. The team will then book a new online oral examination appointment and forward an updated link to the candidate’s new email. Requests of this nature must be made at least three working days prior to the date of the original Part B examination booking.

Please note that Rediff email addresses are not compatible with Microsoft Teams.

7. The online oral examination process

7.1 The Officer of the Watch (OOW) Unlimited, II/1, and Master (code vessels less than 200 GT)/Officer of the Watch (yachts less than 500 GT), Part A: online computer-based proctored examinations

7.1.1 Examination Logistics

The MCA uses the online platform “MyKnow” for the Part A examination. Candidates are required to log onto the platform to take the examination using the link, username and password supplied in their NOE email. The Part A examination lasts for a maximum of 40 minutes and answers to all questions must be submitted within this time.

By commencing the Part A examination, candidates are confirming that they are fit to undertake the examination and are using reliable devices which are connected to a suitable and stable internet connection.

The examination must be taken on a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet. Mobile phones are not permitted as the primary device. Both the primary and secondary devices must be equipped with a functioning camera and microphone.

The proctoring requires a secondary device to be used. A QR code will be provided at the start of the assessment that will connect this device to the assessment. The secondary device camera must be positioned to provide a view of both the candidate and the candidate’s display screen.

The Part A examination is proctored and must be taken under examination conditions to avoid the candidate being flagged for malpractice. The proctoring uses a variety of tools to confirm the identity of the candidate and to ensure that examination conditions are maintained throughout.

Candidates shall:

  • Ensure that their room is well lit with no light sources pointing directly at the cameras.
  • Ensure that their desk is clear.
  • Ensure that the room is quiet and that they are alone in the room.
  • Ensure that their internet connection is adequate and stable.
  • Ensure that their web camera is switched on.
  • Ensure that their microphone is switched on.
  • Ensure that their device is connected to a power source.
  • Ensure any third-party programmes and tabs are closed.
  • Not use headphones.
  • Unplug additional monitors, mice and keyboards.

Candidates who suffer from connectivity issues resulting in repeated interruptions to the examination process may be permitted to resit the examination at the MCA’s discretion. Connectivity issues must be reported to exams@mcga.gov.uk within 24 hours of taking the examination.

The examination is ended by clicking the “Submit” button or automatically when the allocated time for the examination is exhausted. If the time allowed for the examination expires prior to all answers being submitted, the platform will automatically stop the examination, and the answers already submitted will be saved. The result will be issued based on the questions which have been submitted.

The result of the Part A Examination will be issued on completion of the proctoring process and emailed to the candidate within five working days.

The examination is proctored throughout and will be reviewed for malpractice. In the event of any malpractice, the candidate’s examination may be cancelled and considered as a failure. Additionally, appropriate penalties may be issued depending on the level of malpractice identified and the MCA.

More information on malpractice can be found in section 10 of this MIN.

No additional charge has been introduced for the first attempt of the Part A examination. However, in line with MCA cost recovery guidelines, there will be a charge for all subsequent attempts.

7.1.2 Officer of the Watch (OOW) Unlimited, II/1, Examination Structure

The OOW Unlimited, II/1, Part A examination currently consists of 15 questions, each containing four test points. It is made up of three questions on each of the following topics: International Collision Regulations, IALA systems of buoyage, and navigational procedures. The remaining six questions will be drawn from the remainder of the syllabus as detailed in MIN 653 – Amendment 1.

To be successful, the candidate must achieve the minimum percentage to pass, detailed below:

Topic(s) Minimum Percentage to Pass
International Collision Regulations 90%
IALA Systems of Buoyage 90%
Navigational Procedures 80%
Seaworthiness 50%
Cargo Work 50%
Emergency Procedures 50%
Communication 50%
Regulation 50%
Other (Ship Handling, Meteorology, Safety and Security) 50%

7.1.3 Master (code vessels less than 200 GT)/Officer of the Watch (yachts less than 500 GT) Examination Structure

The Master (code vessels less than 200 GT)/Officer of the Watch (yachts less than 500 GT) Part A examination currently consists of 15 questions, each containing four test points. It is made up of three questions on each of the following topics: International Collision Regulations, IALA systems of buoyage, and navigational procedures. The remaining six questions will be drawn from the remainder of the syllabus as detailed in the associated syllabus.

To be successful, the candidate must achieve the minimum percentage to pass, detailed below:

Topic(s) Minimum Percentage to Pass
International Collision Regulations 90%
IALA Systems of Buoyage 90%
Navigational Procedures 80%
Regulation 50%
Other (Ship Handling, Meteorology, Safety and Security) 50%
Emergency Procedures 50%
Communication 50%
Seaworthiness 50%

7.2 Online oral examinations and Part B: online oral examinations

The MCA uses Microsoft Teams for oral examinations. Candidates will require access to Microsoft Teams prior to the start of the examination.

The candidate must log in to the meeting at least 10 minutes prior to the designated start time. If the candidate fails to log in without reasonable explanation in advance, the exam will be classed as a ‘‘failure’’. Candidates must email onlineoralexams@mcga.gov.uk within 5 minutes of the exam start time if they encounter connection issues or have not connected with the examiner at the exam start time.  Failure to comply will automatically result in forfeiting the exam and loss of exam booking fee.

Please note the examination times are UK Time - either GMT / BST according to the time of year. Please ignore any reference to UTC. If a candidate does not appear in the virtual waiting room within 10 minutes after the scheduled examination start time, they will be deemed to have failed.

Candidates should take the examination in a suitable room and have the necessary amenities, for example, a clear desk, comfortable chair, water, low ambient noise, and adequate lighting with no glare.

The device in use must have a camera and access to a reliable, high-speed, internet connection (recommended minimum of 10mbps), enough for Microsoft Teams to be successfully supported. Candidates are not permitted to use background effects, turn off the microphone or wear headphones during any part of the online oral examination.

If, during the exam, there are connectivity or IT equipment issues resulting in repeated disruption of the examination, this will result in postponement of the examination and the candidate will be required to re-schedule. It is the responsibility of the candidate to provide a reliable and tested internet connection. A second postponement owing to connectivity or IT equipment issues will result in the examination being declared as a failure by default and no appealing in this regard will be entertained. Mobile phone tethering for internet connection is not acceptable for oral examinations.

Cancellation or transfer of booked oral examinations is only permitted in exceptional circumstances. For the absence of doubt, this does not include a desired change of date or not being ready to take the examination.

Potential exceptional circumstances may include, but are not limited to:

  • Returning to sea at the request of the company
  • Unavoidably held on a ship
  • Medical emergency of self or immediate family
  • Compassionate reasons  

Any cancellation due to exceptional circumstances as per above, except for medical emergency, must be made with a minimum of 24 hours’ notice to avoid the examination being declared a failure by default.

Candidates who need to cancel for exceptional circumstances should email the details to onlineoralexams@mcga.gov.uk, including appropriate evidence of the exceptional circumstance.

Failure to attend without a valid reason will result in the examination being declared as a failure by default.

8. Post examination processes

8.1 Officer of the Watch (OOW) Unlimited, II/1, and Master (code vessels less than 200 GT)/Officer of the Watch (yachts less than 500 GT), Part A: online computer-based proctored examinations

The Part A examination outcome will be communicated to the candidate via email. Should no result be received within 5 working days, candidates should contact Examinations Team via email at exams@mcga.gov.uk.

Upon successfully passing the Park A examination, the MCA will promptly assign the candidate the next available Part B examination slot. If no Part B booking confirmation email is received, candidates should contact the Exams Team via email at exams@mcga.gov.uk. The allocated Part B examination slot will only be amended in exceptional circumstances and, as such, candidates should only undertake the Part A examination when they are prepared to accept a Part B examination in the allocated slot.

If the candidate does not accept the allocated examination slot from MCA, they will have to commence the booking process. No priorities can be given in this case.

Candidates who fail the Part A examination will receive an email detailing the procedure to retake the Part A examination, including details of the payment required.

8.2 Online oral examinations and Part B: online oral examinations

Once the candidate has completed their online oral examination, the MCA Examiner will verbally announce their result and provide any feedback. The MCA Examiner will then complete and submit an examination result form, which will automatically generate an email to the candidate confirming the result and, in the event of a failure, provide feedback.

If the candidate does not receive an email confirming their result within 24 hours of the online oral examination taking place, they should contact the Online Oral Examination Team via email at onlineoralexams@mcga.gov.uk.

Candidates who pass their online oral examination should submit a copy of the result confirmation email. Candidates must also provide any required documents or evidence as specified in the table in section 4.1 of this MIN for the CoC they are applying for. These should be sent via email to the relevant team at either deck@mcga.gov.uk or engineering@mcga.gov.uk, depending on their application.

Candidates who fail their online oral examination and wish to apply for a resit should submit a copy of their email confirming their result and any required supporting documentation to the appropriate team via email, either deck@mcga.gov.uk or engineering@mcga.gov.uk (as applicable). These candidates will be required to pay an additional fee (£159) via GOV.UK Pay or BACS before applying for a new NOE.

Further information on the resit process can be found in the Marine Notice applicable to the CoC being applied for (see table in section 4.1 of this Notice) and in section 9 of this MIN.

9. Resits

9.1 Officer of the Watch (OOW) Unlimited, II/1 and Master (code vessels less than 200 GT)/Officer of the Watch (yachts less than 500 GT), Part A: online computer-based proctored examinations

In the event of a failure of the Part A examination or the pass result elapsed, the candidate will be required to undertake a resit. The candidate will not be able to proceed to the Part B examination until the Part A examination has been passed.

If a candidate fails the Part A examination, resits may be taken at the following intervals:

  • Second attempt – at least two weeks after the initial examination.

  • Third attempt – at least six weeks after the second attempt and after submission of all mandatory documentary evidence confirming that the candidate has met all other applicable requirements for the issue of the required CoC, except for the oral examination result. Incomplete applications will not be processed and will lead to delays in NOEs being issued.

  • Subsequent attempts (4th attempt) – at least three months after the previous attempt and after submission of all mandatory documentary evidence confirming that the candidate has met all other applicable requirements for the issue of the required CoC[footnote 1], except for the oral examination result. There will be a mandatory three months sea service requirement before applying for NOE for 5th attempt or higher.

The above timelines are not negotiable.

To apply for a resit, the candidate must pay the appropriate fee via GOV.UK Pay or BACS. The fee for the second attempt is £159, subsequent resits cost £84.

On receipt of the appropriate fee, and on expiry of the time penalty applied due to failure, the Part A examination will be available to resit. A notification will be sent to the candidate at this point.

Please note that at the point of applying for a resit, the candidate is required to have a minimum of 6 months seagoing service within the last five years. It is the responsibility of the seafarer to ensure they still meet the seagoing service requirements at the time of reapplying for the Part A examination. If required, evidence of this must be sent via email to deck@mcga.gov.uk. Candidates are only required to send further evidence if the seagoing service submitted with the original application has expired.

The above requirements for resit NOE application will be applicable from 01 February 2025.

Below requirements for resit NOE applications will continue till 31 January 2025:

In the event of a failure of the Part A examination, the candidate will be required to undertake a resit. The candidate will not be able to proceed to the Part B examination until the Part A examination has been passed.

If a candidate fails the Part A examination, resits may be taken at the following intervals:

• Second attempt – at least two weeks after the initial examination.

• Third attempt – at least two weeks after the second attempt and after submission of all mandatory documentary evidence confirming that the candidate has met all other applicable requirements for the issue of the required CoC, except for the oral examination result.

• Subsequent attempts – at least three months after the previous attempt and after submission of all mandatory documentary evidence confirming that the candidate has met all other applicable requirements for the issue of the required CoC, except for the oral examination result.

9.2 Online oral examinations and Part B: online oral examinations

If a candidate fails the Part B examination, they will be required to pay a £159 resit fee for the Part B exam. They will only need to re-sit the Part A examination if more than 12 months have elapsed since they originally passed the Part A. If more than 12 months has passed since the Part A pass and Part B is not successfully passed, they would be required to pay the appropriate resit fee(s), £159 for a first attempt Part A resit and £84 for all subsequent resits as per section 9.1 paragraph 6.

The Part A examination requirement is currently only applicable to OOW Unlimited, II/1, and Master (code vessels less than 200 GT)/Officer of the Watch (yachts less than 500 GT) candidates.

If a candidate fails the online oral examination or the Part B examination, resits may be taken at the intervals stated below (after paying the appropriate fee as per section 9.3).

  • Second attempt – at least two weeks after the initial examination.

  • Third attempt – at least six weeks after the second attempt and after submission of all mandatory documentary evidence confirming that the candidate has met all other applicable requirements for the issue of the required CoC, except for the oral examination result. Incomplete applications will not be processed and will lead to delays in NOEs being issued.

  • Subsequent attempts (4th attempt) – at least three months after the previous attempt and after submission of all mandatory documentary evidence confirming that the candidate has met all other applicable requirements for the issue of the required CoC[footnote 1], except for the oral examination result. There will be a mandatory three months sea service requirement before applying for NOE for 5th attempt or higher.

The above timelines are not negotiable.

Please note that at the point of applying for a resit, the candidate is required to have a minimum of 6 months seagoing service in the last five years. It is the responsibility of the seafarer to ensure they still meet the seagoing service requirements at the time of reapplying for the online oral examination or the Part B examination. If required, evidence of this must be sent via email to the relevant team within Seafarer Services, either deck@mcga.gov.uk or engineering@mcga.gov.uk (as applicable). Candidates are only required to send further evidence if the seagoing service submitted with the original application has expired.

9.3 Resit payments

All resit payments for the Part A: Online computer based proctored examination and Part B: Online oral examination will be processed via GOV.UK Pay or BACS. Further information on the resit process can be found in the Marine Notice applicable to the CoC being applied for (see table in section 4.1 of this Notice) and in section 9 of this MIN.

For exams which do not involve Part A, a summary of the payments required for each resit can be found in the flow chart below:

For exams which involve Part A, a summary of the payments required for each resit can be found in the flow chart below:

Further information on why the MCA charge for this service can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/managing-public-money.

10. Malpractice

Any breach of the assessment rules and regulations or malpractice will be investigated by the MCA and may result in actions or penalties against the candidate.

Examples of breaches and actions that may be considered as malpractice include, but are not limited to:

  • Receiving help from another person or source, either online or in person at the time of exam.
  • Forwarding the examination link to another person or software.
  • Failing to comply with any examination rules or instructions.
  • Not looking at the camera - continuously looking away or around in a suspicious manner.
  • Use, or suspicion of use, of items such as online programmes, any form of AI tools, search engines, recording devices, books, publications, earphones, mobile phones, notes, or other papers at any time during the examination (other than items approved by the MCA).
  • Failure to present valid ID, or another person taking the examination on the registered candidate’s behalf.
  • Obscuring the webcam on the device or freeze-screen used for the exam or the candidate’s face being obscured.
  • Leaving the examination room without permission to do so from the MCA Examiner.
  • Accessing web pages or any other applications.
  • Inability to share the computer screen with the examiner.
  • Inability to show the examiner the entire room set up.
  • Unauthorised sharing of computer screen to other displays.
  • Use of computer keyboard during the exam without examiner’s permission.
  • Behaviour that is considered inappropriate upon review.

Online oral examinations will be recorded or proctored and reviewed, as appropriate, for any breaches of the rules or malpractice.

Candidates must check their device for the following before the exam:

  1. Using the task manager of their device, ensure that only MS Teams is running on the machine during the exam.

  2. Check the Bluetooth connection to ensure the device is not connected to any other device using Bluetooth.

  3. Check the display settings to ensure that their device screen is not connected to any other display.

  4. No automatic access allowed for any AI tools, including any form of note takers.

  5. No mobile phone tethering used on the device for examination.

Recordings will be stored for a maximum of 90 days after which point, they will be deleted, however, the MCA may retain any material considered as evidence of a candidate’s breach of rules or malpractice until the conclusion of any investigation or appeal.

Candidates found to have breached the rules or engaged in malpractice may be subject to penalties including, but not limited to:

  • Disqualification and a voided result.
  • Seagoing service penalties.
  • Referral to the MCA’s Investigation Team for fraud.
  • Prevention from taking further MCA examinations for a defined period or lifetime ban from UK certification system.

11. Recording of oral examinations

The MCA has commenced the recording of online oral examinations and Part B: online oral examinations to allow for a review to take place in the event of a candidate’s appeal or an Examiner’s concern.

To protect the integrity of the online oral examination system candidates will not have access to, nor be able to obtain, a copy of the recording.

Recording of oral examinations are mandatory requirement. Candidates who do not provide consent for oral exam recording will be deemed as “FAIL” by the Examiner and no appeal will be considered in this regard.

Recording will not start until after the candidate’s identity has been verified. Once started, it will continue for the entire examination, the delivery of the result and for any feedback given.

Where no appeal is received, the recording will be deleted after 90 days. Please note candidate should appeal within FIVE WORKING DAYS. Any appeal made after five working days will not be considered.

12. Appeals process

12.1 Officer of the Watch (OOW) Unlimited, II/1, and Master (code vessels less than 200 GT)/Officer of the Watch (yachts less than 500 GT), Part A: online computer-based proctored examinations

Any examination appeal must be made within 10 working days of the examination. Appeals should be made to the Exams Team via email at exams@mcga.gov.uk, detailing the grounds for the appeal.

Any appeal of the decision following a malpractice review must be made by email to the Exams Team at exams@mcga.gov.uk within five working days of the decision being communicated.

Appeals, including any evidence submitted, will be assessed by the Heads of Nautical and Engineering Examiners, or the Chief Examiner.

12.2 Online oral examinations or Part B: online oral examinations

All appeals must be made within five working days of the examination. Appeals should be made to the Exams Team, via email at exams@mcga.gov.uk, detailing the grounds for the appeal.

Appeals will be considered by a panel of Examiners, reporting to the Chief Examiner. The video recording of the examination will be reviewed during the appeals process.

The panel will be made up of a minimum of three Examiners, which will include at least two Examiners holding eligibility to conduct the exam in question and at least one Examiner of Civil Service Grade 7, or above.

If the review panel uphold the appeal, they may overturn the result.

If the review panel finds the appeal to be unfounded, they may, depending on the circumstances of the appeal and their professional judgement, impose a restriction preventing the candidate from booking a resit for a period of up to three months.

The decision of the review panel is final.

13. Computer-based UKLAP 1 Examinations

From 1st March 2025, all UKLAP 1 examination will be an online computer-based, proctored examination. The exam will be available to be taken 24/7 and taken anywhere.

The NOA email will contain a link to access the online computer-based examination, a username and password.

The NoA email will also include a link to MIN 690 (M) as amended which has the Candidate Code of Conduct in the annex.

Examination logistics

The MCA uses the online platform “My Know” for the UKLAP 1 computer-based examination with multiple choice questions. Candidates are required to log onto the platform to take the examination using the link provided, username and password supplied in their NoA email. The online examination lasts for a maximum of 40 minutes and answers to all questions must be submitted within this time. Pass mark for UKLAP 1 examination is 70%. UKLAP 1 examination pass result does not have an expiry date.

Candidates who wish to take the computer-based exam but did not receive the link to this within the NoA received up to 28th Feb 2025, can request the link by emailing FSE@mcga.gov.uk

Syllabus for UKLAP 1 merchant examination is as per MSN 1867 (M) Amendment 1 Annex B. There are 26 questions with up to 4 choices from the 13 areas within the syllabus for the candidates to answer in the given time.

Syllabus for UKLAP 1 fishing examination is as per MSN 1825 (F) Annex 4. There are 22 questions with up to 4 choices from the 11 areas within the syllabus for the candidates to answer in the given time.

If a candidate does not pass the computer-based UKLAP 1 examination within 2 attempts, then candidate will be offered an oral examination with a surveyor.

Computer-based UKLAP 1 examination is an open-book examination and candidates can refer to MCA published information and Ship Master’s Self Examiner to complete this. No other personal or computer-based assistance will be allowed. Any deviation from the code of conduct or evidence towards accessing unfair advantage may result in a failure or ban from MCA assessment.

The examination outcome will be communicated to the candidate via email. We aim to issue results within 5 working days. Should no result be received after 5 working days, candidates should contact the Examinations Team via email at exams@mcga.gov.uk

Should the candidate pass the exam and they want the full-term/permanent FSE issued, they will need to forward the pass email to FSE@mcga.gov.uk

Annex A - ONLINE ORAL EXAMINATION – Candidate’s Code of Conduct

1. General Conduct

1.1 The candidate must be in a suitable quiet room with no one else present; and provided with necessary amenities i.e. clear desk (except for exam stationery), comfortable chair, drinking water, low ambient noise and adequately lit with no glare. The exit door(s) to the room must be closed. The candidate should not attempt to use any public places to undertake the exam. Doing so will automatically result in forfeiting the exam and loss of exam booking fee.

1.2 The candidate must log in to the meeting at least 10 minutes prior to the designated start time. If the candidate fails to log in without reasonable explanation in advance, the exam will be classed as a ‘‘failure’’. Candidates must email onlineoralexams@mcga.gov.uk within 5 minutes of the exam start time if they encounter connection issues or have not connected with the examiner at the exam start time.  Failure to comply will automatically result in forfeiting the exam and loss of exam booking fee. Please note the examination times are UK Time either GMT / BST according to the time of year. Please ignore any reference to UTC.

1.3 Exam stationery that should be available on the desk includes:

  • Radar plotting sheets and aids (Deck CoC candidates only)
  • calculator
  • A4 plain writing paper
  • black pen
  • pencil
  • eraser, and
  • ruler

OOW candidates should keep their MNTB Training Record Book (TRB) readily available to display relevant sections on camera, should it be required by the examiner.

1.4 Candidates are expected to be aware of and comply with all Health and Safety aspects at their site. This includes activation of any fire alarms, use of escape routes etc. Candidates are encouraged to use toilet facilities before the exam. Comfort breaks during the exam are discouraged and may only be allowed at the discretion of the examiner. The examiner will need to be fully satisfied that the candidate will obtain no assistance while absent.

1.5 The candidates are expected to conduct themselves in a professional manner. Business formal attire is the dress code for exams.

1.6 The candidate must declare in advance of sitting the exam any medical conditions or disabilities which could affect the normal undertaking of exam.

1.7 Examinations results are confidential between the candidate and the MCA and is subject to the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Candidates must refrain from sharing any details of the Examiner or provide detailed narration of the examination and results over public social media platforms. Examiner details will not be shared in advance of the examination date.

1.8 Candidates cannot cancel or reschedule an exam unless a valid reason is provided with written supporting evidence. Such evidence should be emailed to onlineoralexams@mcga.gov.uk, which will then be reviewed internally. Unauthorised cancellations will result in forfeiting the exam and loss of exam booking fee.

1.9 Examiners will require to see a valid Government issued Photo ID document to confirm candidate identity, such as a Passport or Driving licence (for UK nationals) and Passport (for foreign nationals)  

2.0 Conduct with use of IT equipment

2.1 It is recommended that the examination software is launched on devices such as laptops, desktop computers or tablets (iPad) equipped with the current updated software version. Please note the examination cannot be accessed via mobile phone. The laptop, PC or tablet/iPad must have a reliable high-speed internet connection sufficient for Microsoft Teams, with audio and video facility to be successfully supported (Recommended minimum 10 Mbps).

2.2 The candidate should download the Microsoft Teams application ahead of the examination, as per the attached step by step guide sent with the booking email. The candidate will also need to confirm to the Examiner in case the web browser version is used. If using the web browser version, the examiner will make a judgement based on IT connectivity if the exam can proceed or not. Guidance under section 2.7 below will apply if the Examiner considers that the exam cannot proceed.

2.3 When connected to Microsoft Teams application, the candidate must not use any background effects and headphones. The microphone and camera must always remain on, and the candidate should be looking straight at the camera with hand gestures visible on camera, as far as possible.

2.4 When asked by the examiner to scan the room via video display, the candidate should be able to move their laptop to all locations within the room to prove that there is no external assistance within the room or any unauthorised equipment or materials.

2.5 Candidates should be aware of the screen share functionality available on Microsoft Teams and share their laptop screen, when required by the examiner. The candidate must not have any other programs, documents or files open on their laptop other than the Microsoft Teams application.

2.6 The candidate should be prepared to focus their laptop camera on any written work undertaken during the exam.

2.7 Insufficient connectivity or other IT connection issues leading to poor audio and video quality on Microsoft teams during the examination may at the discretion of the examiner lead to failure or postponement of the examination. Multiple postponements will lead to referral to the Chief Examiner.

3.0 Cheating Policy

3.1 Use of other forms of electronic or IT devices such as mobile phones, multiple smart devices, recording devices, on-screen recording, Bluetooth devices or earpiece, etc. is prohibited. Any evidence of use of such devices will result in forfeiting the exam and loss of exam booking fee.

3.2 If interruption to proper functioning of exam IT equipment occurs and which causes suspicion of cheating, the candidate will be referred to The Chief Examiner.

3.3 Use of internet search engines, textbooks, notes, or any other form of external assistance is strictly not allowed. Similarly, muting the microphone or constantly looking away from the camera, use of headphones, background effects or any form of external assistance, including presence of others in the room will be viewed as cheating. Any evidence of such breaches will result in failure of the exam and be reported to the Chief Examiner for investigation and penalties.

3.4 Any attempts to verify the examiner’s identity by any means prior to the commencement of oral exam will be viewed as cheating. Any evidence of such breaches will result in failure of the exam and be reported to the Chief Examiner for investigation and penalties.

3.5 All Exams will be recorded to ensure integrity, transparency, and accountability. This policy applies to all online Exams, no exceptions will be permitted. By Candidates participating, they agree to be recorded. All recordings will be stored securely and accessed only by authorised personnel for investigation or review purposes. To protect the integrity of the online oral examination system candidates will not have access to, nor be able to obtain, a copy of the recording. Recordings will be deleted after a retention period of 90 days unless an appeal or investigation is pending. Non-compliance with this policy will result in a Fail. Please note candidates should appeal within FIVE WORKING DAYS, any appeal made after five working days will not be considered.

3.6 It is the responsibility of the candidate to provide a reliable internet connection. A second postponement owing to connectivity or IT equipment issues will result in the examination being declared as a failure by default and no appealing in this regard will be entertained.

Note: UKLAP Grade 1 – Master candidates will be allowed to keep reference books allowed under MSN 1867 (M) Annex B. Again, the use of handwritten notes in books is not permitted, however, these candidates can use reference tabs on the permitted books.

More information

UK Seafarer Services
Maritime and Coastguard Agency,
Bay 2/11
Spring Place,
105 Commercial Road,
Southampton,
SO15 1EG.

Email: 

exams@mcga.gov.uk

onlineoralexams@mcga.gov.uk

General Enquiries: infoline@mcga.gov.uk

  1. The OOW Unlimited, II/1, oral examination syllabus is detailed in MIN 653 – Amendment 1 and the  Master (code vessels less than 200 GT)/Officer of the Watch (yachts less than 500 GT) detailed on https://www.gov.uk/guidance/uk-seafarer-careers-training-provision-and-information#oral-exam-syllabuses ↩ ↩2 ↩3

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