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.
Using AI to Prepare for Your MCA Oral Exam? Read This First
I love AI, but it gets MCA oral topics wrong more often than you’d think. Here’s what to watch out for, and how to use it safely when you’re preparing for your exam.
MCA Oral Exam Pass Rates - Let’s Talk About Those 99% Claims!
Seen a training provider advertising a 99% pass rate? Here are the MCA’s own oral exam pass rates for 2022 to 2025, how my students compare, and why you should always ask how a pass rate is calculated.
My New Crew Portal - Keeping you on track for your MCA Oral Exam
Introducing my new Crew Portal! Designed to keep you on track for your MCA oral exam, with personalised study plans, progress tracking, study buddies and AI-powered insights from over 2,000 past exam reports. Smarter preparation, better support and everything you need in one place!
From Master 3000gt to Yacht Unlimited - The MCA’s New Pathway
The MCA has officially released the new Yacht Unlimited CoC pathway under MSN 1858 Amendment 2. Here’s what yacht crew need to know about progressing from Master 3000gt to Yacht Unlimited. This blog breaks down the new pathway, requirements, modules and oral exams for yacht crew.
Two MCA changes you need to know for your oral exam - 2026
Over the last month, there have been two important MCA updates that are already filtering into oral exams. If you’re preparing for an MCA oral, these are changes you need to be aware of.
Why motivation isn’t the problem (and what helped me realise that)
Struggling to stay motivated with so much to learn? This book changed how I think about preparation.
A Mercy Ships Volunteer, a Floating Hospital, and an OOW Exam that truly mattered
A volunteer bosun, a floating hospital and an exam that truly mattered. This is the story of Femi - and why some exams are bigger than others.
Deck Progression to Yacht Unlimited CoC’s - It’s Official!
The MCA has officially confirmed the new Yacht Unlimited CoC pathway — a long-awaited step forward for yacht officers. For years, crew hit a ceiling at Master 3000, but that’s changing fast. With LY3 removing the 3,000 GT cap and yachts only getting bigger, this new ticket opens the door to larger vessels without switching to commercial routes. Time to dust off those plotting tools — it’s official!
Help Improve MCA’s Oral Exam Booking System!
The MCA are making changes to the oral exam booking system and they want your feedback. Instead of just putting up with a system that doesn’t work, this is our chance to help fix it.
GMDSS Certificate Changes - What you need to know in 2025
From May 2025, the MCA is taking over GMDSS certification from AMERC — and the application process is changing. Whether you're applying for your CoC or need your GOC sooner, this guide breaks down exactly what to do (and which form to use) to save time, money, and stress.
The Evolution of Fred’s Oral Prep: Why I’ve Gone Fully Online
Discover how Fred's Oral Prep evolved from a legendary in-person course to an even more successful online program, maintaining a 94% pass rate while offering greater flexibility for maritime professionals.
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.
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.
Understanding the new M200 and OOW Unlimited Exam Structure
Important update: The MCA has restructured M200 and OOW Unlimited examinations into a two-part system. Learn about the new format featuring an online proctored exam (Part A) and face-to-face oral exam (Part B). Essential guidance on timing your exams and understanding the MCA's reasoning for these changes.
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.
Fred’s Webinar: Get exam ready!
Discover why Fred's weekly webinars are essential for maritime exam success. From real-time practice with exam-style questions to personalised feedback and study buddy connections, learn how these interactive sessions can transform your exam preparation. Perfect for candidates seeking structured, accountable, and effective study methods.
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.
Study Buddies - Why you need them
Discover why having study buddies is a crucial part of maritime exam preparation. Learn how collaborative learning enhances your exam readiness through practice sessions, mutual support, and the power of talking out loud. With organised study groups and comprehensive resources, transform your solo study into an effective group learning experience.
How to fill in your Training Record Book (TRB)
Essential guide to correctly completing your Training Record Book (TRB) - a critical document for your maritime certification. Learn how to avoid common mistakes, understand key sections, and maintain proper documentation that meets examiner requirements. Includes recent updates about scanning requirements and self-assessment options.