NOE

For every UK seafarer working towards a Certificate of Competency (CoC), the Notice of Eligibility (NOE) is a vital milestone. It is more than just a formality — it is the official recognition from the Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) that you have completed the required training, gained the necessary sea service, and are ready to sit your oral examination.

With the release of MIN 690 (Amendment 5, 2024), the MCA has updated and clarified the procedures for NOE applications, oral exam bookings, and digital submissions. For cadets and officers-in-training, this means greater efficiency — but also the need for careful attention to detail.

What is an NOE?

The NOE acts as your entry pass to the MCA oral exam. It confirms that the MCA has reviewed and accepted your training record, sea service, and certificates as being sufficient to allow you to take the exam for your chosen level of CoC (OOW, Chief Mate, Master, Engineer).

Key points to remember:

• Mandatory: No oral exam booking without a valid NOE.

• Validity: Usually issued for 5 years.

• Level-specific: You need a new NOE if progressing to a higher CoC.

• Issued by MCA only after thorough document checks.

Why the NOE Matters

The NOE is significant for three reasons:

1. Verification – it confirms you have met all the minimum requirements before presenting yourself for an exam.

2. Structure – it gives you a timeframe (five years) to complete the oral examination process.

3. Confidence – once granted, you know the MCA has approved your background, meaning you can concentrate on revision and exam preparation.

Key Changes from MIN 690 (Amendment 5)

MIN 690 sets out how the MCA now handles NOEs and oral exam bookings. The main developments include:

1. Applications & Documentation

• MSF 4201 Form: Candidates must submit this with all relevant supporting documentation.

• Essential Documents: Sea service testimonials, Training Record Book (if applicable), STCW short courses (e.g., AFF, Medical First Aid, HELM, GMDSS), passport, discharge book, ENG1 medical.

• All certificates must be in English and properly signed/stamped.

2. Digital First Approach

• The MCA strongly encourages the use of the Seafarer Services online portal.

• Applications can still be posted, but digital submission speeds up processing.

• NOEs are now generally issued electronically.

3. Online Oral Exam Booking

• Candidates must book oral exams using the MCA’s online booking system.

• You choose your preferred location (or online exam, if eligible) and pay the fee at the point of booking.

• No exam can be booked without a valid NOE reference number.

4. Resits & Expiry

• If unsuccessful in your oral exam, you can rebook through the same online system.

• Your NOE remains valid until its 5-year expiry date.

• If it expires before you pass, a new NOE application must be made.

5. Extensions

• Extensions are only granted in exceptional circumstances (such as illness or operational restrictions), and must be supported by evidence.

1. Collate Your Records

   • Gather sea service testimonials, TRB, and certificates.

   • Scan copies for digital submission and keep originals safe.

2. Complete MSF 4201

   • Fill out every section carefully. Incomplete forms are a common reason for rejection.

3. Submit to MCA

   • Use the online Seafarer Services portal wherever possible.

   • Pay the appropriate fee.

4. MCA Review

   • The MCA verifies sea service, course completion, and certification.

   • They will contact you if clarification is needed.

5. Receive NOE

   • Issued electronically (PDF). Keep a copy safe.

   • Once received, you can proceed to book your oral examination.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Unverified Sea Service: Submitting testimonials without signatures, stamps, or correct vessel details.

• Missing Ancillary Certificates: Forgetting key short courses like Advanced Fire Fighting or HELM.

• Miscalculated Sea Time: Counting watchkeeping incorrectly or logging service in the wrong capacity.

• Last-Minute Applications: The MCA may take several weeks to process — delaying your oral exam booking.

Practical Tips for a Smooth NOE Process

• Start Early: Begin your NOE application 3–6 months before you plan to sit your oral.

• Stay Digital: Keep scanned copies of all documents — easier for submission and future applications.

• Check MCA Guidance: Requirements differ slightly between OOW, Chief Mate, and Master applications.

• Track Validity: Mark your NOE expiry date in your calendar.

• Plan for Resits: Even strong candidates sometimes require a second attempt.

Final Thoughts

The Notice of Eligibility is not just paperwork — it’s a critical checkpoint on your journey to becoming a qualified officer. With MIN 690 streamlining digital submissions and online bookings, the process is now more efficient, but precision and preparation remain essential.

At Captain Barry Sadler Maritime Training & Consultancy, we guide candidates through every stage of the NOE and orals process. From ensuring your application is watertight to preparing you for the oral exam itself, our support gives you the confidence to succeed.

Your NOE is your ticket to the orals — make sure you secure it early, prepare thoroughly, and take the next step toward your maritime career.

MCA NOE & Online Orals — Questions & Answers

 

1) What is an NOE (or NOA)?
It’s the MCA’s confirmation that you’re eligible to book and sit an oral exam for a UK CoC. As of 3 June 2025, NOEs/NOAs are issued as an email

2) Which application form do I use for my NOE?
Use the form for your route: MSF 4274 (Deck), MSF 4275 (Engineer), MSF 4343 (Yacht Deck), MSF 4259 (ETO), MSF 4260 (Tugs), MSF 4345 (Fishing)

3) How do I submit my Training Record Book (TRB)?
If a TRB is required, send the full physical book to Seafarer Services. Keep scanned copies of the overview signature pages for your online oral. For e-TRB, submit after all checks are complete.

4) How long is my NOE valid?
5 years from the date of issue.

5) How do I book my oral exam?
Your NOE/NOA email contains the booking link, Candidate Code of Conduct, Teams instructions, and a unique PIN. Book via the online system from that link.

6) What’s changed about OOW Unlimited and Master <200 GT / OOW (yachts <500 GT)?
These now have Part A (computer-based, proctored) and Part B (online oral). You must pass Part A before you can take Part B. Part A is valid for 12 months.

7) What platform is Part A on, and how long does it take?
Part A runs on MyKnow, lasts 40 minutes, and the result is emailed within 5 working days after proctoring.

8) What kit/connection do I need for the online exam?
Use a laptop/desktop/tablet (not a phone) with reliable high-speed internet (Teams-capable; MCA suggests ~10 Mbps). Ensure working audio/video.

9) Are the online exams recorded?
Yes. Part B online orals are recorded (and Part A is proctored). Recordings are retained up to 90 days (longer if there’s an investigation/appeal).

10) How soon will MCA process my NOE application?
MCA aims to process NOE applications within 28 days and will email updates at each stage.

11) How long is an oral pass valid?
Your oral pass is valid for 3 years (it must still be in date when your CoC is issued).

12) What if the exam type in my email is wrong or I don’t get my Part B slot?
If the exam type looks wrong, contact deck@mcga.gov.uk / engineering@mcga.gov.uk / fse@mcga.gov.uk. For missing Part B booking confirmation, email exams@mcga.gov.uk

13) What happens if I fail? Are there resit rules and fees?
Yes—time penalties apply between attempts (non-negotiable). Part A resit fees currently: £159 (second attempt) and £84 (subsequent attempts). Later attempts can carry extra requirements (e.g., sea service before further NOE). Check the latest schedule in MIN 690.

14) Do I still need to send originals or can I apply digitally?
First-time applicants are often asked to post originals; others may apply by email with scans. Your application form explains exactly what to send.

15) Do I need a current ENG 1 to apply?
You must include a medical fitness certificate (ENG 1) or a recognised equivalent; it can be expired if it shows you were medically fit to sail.

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