What types of question could be in the MCA orals?

The UK MCA orals are split into two parts, part A which is a computer based assessment and part B which is a one-to-one assessment with a UK MCA assessor.

The questions in part B of the assessment can be from any part of the UK MCA syllabus which can be found in MIN 653 – Amendment 1.

The three general subjects that you could be assessed on are:

– Navigation

– Cargo handling and stowage

– Controlling the operation of the ship and the care of persons on board

You should remember that this assessment is at the operational level, they won’t be expecting for you to answer at the Master’s level. Remember, calling the Master is a valid option in certain situations (e.g. encountering fog opposed to trying to navigate through it alone without calling them!).

You can practice for the part A assessment UK MCA part A orals using the SafeSeas Training Part A Mock Orals Assessment.

I have given a few examples of potential questions, which are past UK MCA orals questions, these alongside over 400 more, are featured in the SafeSeas Practice Orals Assessment Generator.

Navigation:

What is this buoy and what is its light?

What is the sound signal for a vessel over 100m at anchor in restricted visibility?

What is the following vessel?

Describe a watch handover.

What are your actions in the event of a man overboard?

Cargo

List your duties as a cargo officer during loading in port.

What checks should be made to the gangway on rigging to ensure safe access?

What is DWA?

Controlling the operation of the ship and care of persons on board

What are your actions on receiving a VHF DSC in sea area A3?

What are the requirements for the fire pump as per SOLAS?

Want to try a free assessment generator, you can access one here.

Want to practice for part A, you can sign up here for £3.99 for 30-days access.

Want to have access to our full question bank to practice for part B? You can subscribe to our generator for £2.99 for 30 day unlimited access. You will get a different set of questions every time, with feedback on your answers at the end of every try.