ON THE BLOG
Fred’s Tips
Fred's tips for MCA oral exam prep guide you through every step of your certification journey, from initial application to passing your oral exams.
Guide: How to apply for your COC after you PASS!
Step-by-step guide to applying for your Certificate of Competency (COC) after passing your MCA exam. Includes the latest 2024 update about accepting scanned documents for first-time applications. Your complete roadmap from exam success to certification.
Quick Checklist: Applying for your M500/3000 NOE/Booking Form
Essential checklist for applying for your Master 500/3000 Notice of Eligibility (NOE) and MCA booking form. Based on MSN 1858 Amendment 1 requirements, this guide ensures you've covered all necessary documentation and requirements before submission. Save time and avoid common application delays.
Fred’s “What to Study” lists for OOW, Master 500/3000, and M200 Courses
Needing some Pre-study? Let me help you. Get started on your maritime certification journey with our comprehensive pre-study guides for OOW, Master 500/3000, and M200 courses. Perfect for those looking to build a strong foundation before committing to full exam preparation. Access tailored study lists designed to set you up for success.
How to book your MCA Online Exam, Step by step in 2025
Updated guide for booking your MCA Online Oral Exam in 2025, covering OOW, M500, and M3000 certifications. Learn about the new Microsoft Teams format and follow our step-by-step process to successfully book your online examination after receiving your NOE.
How long do I need to study for my oral exam?
Discover the personalised factors that determine your maritime oral exam study timeline. From vessel experience to understand the key elements that impact your preparation needs. A practical guide to assessing your individual study requirements and creating a tailored study plan.
Why I Teach the Whole Syllabus - No Cherry-Picking Here!
Discover why a comprehensive approach to maritime exam preparation is essential for success. Learn how our structured, no-shortcuts method covers the entire syllabus, ensuring you understand not just the 'what' but the crucial 'why' behind every concept.
Exam Technique - Why it’s so important!
Discover why mastering exam technique is just as crucial as knowing the content for your maritime oral exam. Learn how to understand examiner expectations, use the right terminology, and deliver precise answers with key words that examiners are looking for. Transform your content knowledge into exam success with our proven techniques.
OOW COC REQUIREMENTS
Navigate the complete requirements for obtaining your OOW Yachts Less Than 3000GT Certificate of Competency (COC). Learn about essential qualifications, sea service requirements, and critical certification timing - including why your EDH certificate timing matters - everything you need to know for your application.
M500/3000 COC REQUIREMENTS
Complete guide to obtaining your Master 500GT and 3000GT yacht certificates. Learn about sea service requirements, essential qualifications, and a crucial tip about exam timing that could save you from expired modules. Includes a detailed breakdown of sea time requirements, required modules, and strategic advice on the most efficient certification path.
M200 COC REQUIREMENTS
Understanding M200 COC requirements: Compare Safe Haven vs Unlimited Area qualifications. This includes minimum age requirements, qualifying certificates, sea service requirements, and crucial details.
Sea Service & Days at Sea - OOW, M500/3000 and M200
Comprehensive guide to maritime sea service requirements for OOW, Master 200GT, Master 500GT, and Master 3000GT certifications. Learn the crucial differences between onboard yacht service, sea service, and watchkeeping requirements. Includes essential information about Sea Service Testimonials (SST) and the verification process through PYA or Nautilus.
The Slater Fund - What is it?
Discover how the Slater Fund can provide up to £20,000 in financial support for UK maritime certifications. Learn about eligibility requirements, covered certificates, and how to apply for this career-changing scholarship opportunity.

