MCA Oral Exam Process

Following a successful application, the MCA will issue your Notice of Examination (NOE) or Notice of Assessment (NOA) electronically by email. You should check that the exam type and details shown in your NOE/NOA are correct before proceeding. Contact the relevant MCA office if you believe there is an error.

Important: Maritime Exam Prep Pro cannot issue an NOE/NOA, cannot book MCA examinations on your behalf, and cannot contact the MCA on your behalf.

Some candidates — including those applying for OOW Unlimited (II/1), Master of vessels under 200 GT, and OOW yachts under 500 GT — may be required to complete Part A before they can sit Part B.

Part A is a computer-based, proctored examination conducted online. A pass in Part A is valid for one year from the date of the result. Candidates must complete Part B within 12 months of passing Part A where Part A applies.

Candidates should always confirm the current requirements for their specific route directly with the MCA before booking.

Part B is the online oral examination. The MCA conducts online oral examinations using Microsoft Teams. You will receive joining instructions with your NOE/NOA or in a separate communication from the MCA.

Candidates must log in at least 10 minutes before the scheduled start time. Examination times are given in UK time (GMT or BST, depending on the time of year). It is the candidate's responsibility to ensure they join at the correct time.

You are responsible for ensuring a suitable technical setup and environment for online examinations. You must have:

• A stable internet connection (wired preferred; do not use mobile phone tethering)

• A working camera and microphone

• A quiet, private, well-lit room free from interruptions

• A clear desk with only permitted items present

• Valid government-issued photographic ID

• Permitted stationery (plain paper and pen/pencil) where applicable

You must not use headphones or virtual background effects during the examination.

Online oral examinations are recorded by the MCA. By proceeding with an online oral examination, candidates consent to being recorded. Candidates who do not consent to recording may be deemed to have failed the examination.

Candidates must follow the MCA Candidate Code of Conduct throughout the examination. During the examination, candidates must not use:

• AI tools, search engines or online programmes

• Unauthorised notes, books or reference materials

• Third-party assistance of any kind

• Mobile phones (other than for connection if specifically permitted)

Any breach of the Code of Conduct may result in failure or further action.

If you are unsuccessful at an oral examination, you will be advised of the waiting period before you may resit. The MCA applies mandatory waiting periods between attempts.

Candidates who wish to appeal an examination result should follow the MCA's official appeals process. Information on appeals and resits is available in the current MCA guidance and on the GOV.UK website. Always rely on the latest official guidance for current waiting periods and appeal timescales.