Question Previews
See examples of the interactive CBT questions covering COLREGs, IALA Buoyage, and Navigation topics.
See How the Test Works
Preview of the Part A MCA OOW AI Test interface and question format
Understanding the MCA Part A Exam
The MCA introduced a new 2-part oral examination structure to improve candidate confidence, efficiency, and commitment. Part A is a proctored online Computer-Based Test (CBT).
What is Part A?
Part A is the first stage of the MCA Officer of the Watch (OOW) oral examination. It’s a proctored online CBT that tests your knowledge of:
- Collision Regulations (COLREGs)
- IALA Buoyage System
- General Navigation
- General maritime knowledge topics
When Did This Start?
The new 2-part exam structure was introduced by the MCA:
- OOW Unlimited: NOEs issued from May 2023
- OOW Yacht: Rollout in subsequent phases
Real MCA Part A Exam Requirements
When you take the official MCA Part A exam, you’ll need to meet these technical and environmental requirements.
Primary Device
Laptop, desktop computer, or tablet with:
- Webcam (built-in or external)
- Microphone
- Stable internet (min 10mbps)
- Updated browser
Secondary Device
Smartphone or tablet for proctoring:- Paired via QR code
- Camera must face you
- Used to monitor your session
- Must remain connected throughout
Environment
Your exam environment must have:- Clear desk (no books/notes)
- Quiet room
- Adequate lighting
- No other people present
You cannot:
- Leave the room during the exam
- Use headphones or earbuds
- Have reference materials visible
- Have anyone else in the room
If You Fail the Real MCA Part A
Understanding the resit process and fees can help you plan your preparation strategy.
| Resit Fees | |
| First resit (2nd attempt) | £159 |
| Subsequent resits | £84 |
| Waiting Periods | |
| After 1st fail | 2 weeks |
| After 2nd fail | 2 weeks + docs |
| After 3rd fail | 3 months |
For issues with your real MCA exam, contact: exams@mcga.gov.uk
How the Part A AI Test Works
Pay and Get Instant Access
Pay £61.32 for one test attempt. After payment you are taken straight to the test start screen.
Timed 40-Minute CBT
15 topic-based questions, each with 4 sub-questions. Questions drawn randomly from a large bank. Once you move on, you cannot go back.
AI-Based Marking
Your answers are analysed by our AI marking engine against Part A standards. Detailed scoring calculated by topic and overall.
Result by Email
Pass or fail decision with summary of your performance by topic. Guidance on where you need to improve for the real MCA OOW oral.
Exam Structure and Syllabus Coverage
This Part A AI test mirrors the structure and difficulty of the real MCA OOW Part A assessment. All questions are drawn from a bank of hundreds of items across the syllabus.
Question Distribution
3 Collision Regulations
4 sub-questions each • 12 marks total
3 Buoyage
4 sub-questions each • 12 marks total
3 General Navigation
4 sub-questions each • 12 marks total
6 General Questions (one from each area)
Pass Marks
| Topic | Questions | Minimum Pass | Benchmark |
|---|---|---|---|
| Collision Regulations | 3 | 90% | 11/12 correct |
| Buoyage | 3 | 90% | 11/12 correct |
| General Navigation | 3 | 80% | 10/12 correct |
| Overall Exam | 15 | 70% | Across all topics |
| General Topics (each) | 50% | Per topic minimum | |
If you fall short in one area, the report helps you see exactly which topic needs work before your real OOW oral.
Who This Test Is For
This AI test is designed for:
Candidates preparing for MCA OOW oral Part A
Officers returning to sea who want a reality check on their knowledge
Training centres and shipping companies who want a quick objective screening tool
Frequently Asked Questions
This is an AI-powered practice test to help you prepare. The real MCA Part A exam requires an NOE (Notice of Eligibility), proctoring via a secondary mobile device, and is conducted through the official MCA portal. Our test simulates the question format, timing, and difficulty level so you know what to expect.
No. This practice test is available to anyone who wants to prepare for the MCA OOW Part A oral examination. You do not need a Notice of Eligibility (NOE) to purchase or take this practice test. However, you will need an NOE for the real MCA exam.
For the real MCA Part A exam you need: a laptop, desktop or tablet with webcam (minimum 10mbps internet), plus a secondary mobile device (smartphone/tablet) for QR-code proctoring. You must be in a quiet room with a clear desk, adequate lighting, and you cannot use headphones.
If you fail the real MCA Part A, you can resit after 2 weeks (£159 fee). A second fail requires 2 weeks plus additional documentation review. A third fail requires a 3-month wait. Your Part A pass is valid for 12 months to complete Part B.
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