Question & AnswerQ&A (MIA STCW Circular No. 2015-01)
The objective is to prescribe standards and procedures in full compliance with the requirements of STCW Chapter II/3 for examination, assessment and certification, and to streamline processes ensuring candidates meet STCW requirements.
It applies to all candidates for certification as Master on ships of less than 500 gross tonnage not engaged on near-coastal voyages.
A Master (MM) means the person having command of a ship.
Category-A: Candidates with education/training commencing 01 April 2014 onwards compliant with STCW 2010 Amendments requiring updating training; Category-B: Candidates with education/training prior to 01 April 2014 compliant with STCW 1995 Amendments; Category-C: Candidates without approved education and training for Management Level - Deck Officer.
Candidates must pass theoretical exams, practical assessment, GOC exam or hold valid GMDSS Radio Operator COC, assess competence in ancillary proficiencies, submit proof of ECDIS simulator training, approved MLCD training, and required seagoing service.
MARINA License is valid for 5 years; COC fully compliant with STCW 2010 Amendments is valid for 5 years or until the earliest expiration of certificates of proficiency, but not later than the MARINA license validity.
Basic Training, Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boats other than Fast Rescue Boats, Advanced Fire Fighting, Medical First Aid, and Medical Care.
A candidate who fails in 3 or more competences in one sitting is not allowed to apply for re-sit within a one-month period.
The candidate cannot re-sit until providing proof of at least 3 months approved seagoing service with experience relevant to that competence or successful completion of an approved training/refresher program related to that competence (the '3-3 Rule').
Revalidation occurs not more than every 5 years by proving continued competence through approved seagoing service or equivalent in-service experience, approved training, or passing examination and assessment; combined periods of service ashore may count at a 2:1 ratio toward seagoing service.
Yes, but the MARINA License will be issued subject to applicable penalties.
The candidate must be at least 20 years old, as shown in their birth certificate.
Proof must show not less than 36 months as Officer in Charge of Navigational Watch on ships of 500 GT+ or 24 months combined service as OIC-NW and Chief Mate, with at least 12 months as Chief Mate on ships of 500 GT or more, with the last disembarkation not beyond 5 years ago.