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Overview

Your application is for an oral exam leading to a UK certificate of competency (CoC) issued by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA).

A UK CoC meets the applicable standards of training certification and watchkeeping (STCW) requirements.

Application forms and guidance notes

The application forms include guidance on completing the form and checklists showing which certificates youll need to provide.

Fishing deck officer

Use form MSF 4345 FD to apply for your CoC for any of the following:

• class 1 fishing
• class 2 fishing
• class 3 fishing

You can also use this form for conversions from fishing to:

• STCW OOW unlimited
• standby, seismic survey and oceanographic research vessels (OOW/chief mate/master)
• master code vessel less than 200 GT not more than 150 miles from a safe haven
• master code vessel less than 200 GT unlimited area

Download

• MSF 4345 (F) Application for an oral examination leading to issue, conversion or upgrade of a certificate of competency for fishing deck officers.

Find more information about training and certification for deck fishing vessel crew in MGN 411 (M+F)

Further information about conversions from fishing vessel certification to standby, seismic survey and oceanographic research vessels is available in the marine guidance note MGN 121 (M) part 13 Use of fishing vessel certificates of competency in standby, seismic survey and oceanographic research vessels revised arrangements.

Fishing engineer officer merchant navy

Use form MSF 4275 ME to apply for a CoC for any of the following:

• class 1 fishing
• class 2 fishing

Download

• MSF 4275 Application for an oral examination leading to the issue of a certificate of competency (STCW) for engine officers.

Find more information about training certification for engineering fishing vessel crew.

Further information about conversions from fishing vessel certification to standby, seismic survey and oceanographic research vessels available in the marine guidance note MGN 121 (M) part 13 Use of fishing vessel certificates of competency in standby, seismic survey and oceanographic research vessels revised arrangements.

Fishing Certificates of Equivalent Competence (CEC)

For information on hold to apply for a UK Fishing CEC download MSN 1825 (F) Certificates of equivalent competency: fishing vessels training and certification guidance, part F2.

For the application process follow Apply for a CEC for deck and engineer officers and copmplete MSF 4203.

Application process and contacts

Read the guidance notes in the application form to make sure youve filled in all the correct information. Check that you have the required certificates and qualifications and that youve got the paperwork you need to support your application. Youll need to supply original copies of documents and certificates unless it states otherwise.

You must submit the following items with your application form:

• certified copy of passport (and visa if applicable)
• discharge book or certificates of discharge (original copies)
• sea service testimonials (original copies)
• 2 passport size photos (countersigned)
• fee as stated on application form

The application form specifies the additional documents youll need to supply either with your application or before your CoC can be issued. These will include:

• applicable ancillary course certificates
• evidence of completion of MCA approved training and education courses

Post your application, supporting documents and fee to MCA:

MCA doesnt accept email or fax applications

MCA aims to process your application within 28 days of receipt. Youll receive an email:

• when your application has been received
• if any further information/evidence is needed
• when your certificate(s) and documents are being couriered back to you

Notice of eligibility (NOE) and oral exam

If you are required to take an oral exam youll need to obtain an NOE. An NOE will be issued if your application is in order and you meet the sea time requirements. NOEs are valid for 5 years.

The NOE allows you to book an oral exam at your local MCA marine office. It also lists any further documentary evidence or certificates youll need to submit before the issue of your CoC.

Its recommended that you complete all education and training before sitting your oral exam.

Oral exam results and issue of CoC

Your exam result will be recorded on your NOE. An oral pass result is valid for 3 years so make sure all your certificates are valid when you return your NOE for issue of your CoC. MCA aims to issue a CoC within 14 days of receiving your NOE pass and any outstanding documents.

If you fail your exam you must still return your NOE and requested documents to MCA. You can apply for a re-sit. Youll find instructions on the NOE.

Contact MCA

Contact the seafarer training and certification branch at MCA if youve got any queries about your application or exam.

MCA doesnt offer a counter service.

Further information training

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