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Online Maritime English Test (MET) for Deck Ratings

ABS Approved Testing to Determine the English Proficiency of Deck Department Ratings & Compliant Under IMO Model Course 3.17, SMCP & STCW
Deck Ratings’ duties include supporting the Officer of the Watch, assisting with navigation, keeping a lookout, steering the vessel when necessary, as well as other responsibilities such as maintenance and repair, operating equipment, cargo handling, mooring, safety, security, and firefighting duties. These duties demand a good standard of English, and the VIRSEC Maritime English Test for Deck Ratings is designed to assist Ship Operators and employers make recruiting and training decisions by formerly assessing the English language competency of crew within this role.

About the Maritime English Test for Deck Ratings

The fully online, American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) Approved, Maritime English Test for Deck Ratings is ideal for any person wishing to pursue a career at sea who is required to prove their English language competence to prospective employers. The test is designed around the approved guidelines for Maritime English developed by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO). It is combined with internationally recognised methods for English language testing to form a rigorous and accurate testing system for use in the Maritime Sector.

Delegate Test Areas

Delegates will first receive an explanation of the tests and then participate in a short sample test to demonstrate how it works. They will then join the actual timed Official Maritime English Test (MET) and receive a breakdown of their results for reading, grammar, listening, vocabulary, and numeracy. Upon successful completion, they are awarded a certificate to demonstrate their pass.

Regulations & Codes Addressed

The English Tests are designed from the ground up using approved guidelines from the International Maritime Organisation (IMO Model English Course 3.17); IMO Standard Marine Communication Phrases (SMCPs); and consistent with the functional framework set out by the Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW).

Target Audience & Level

The VIRSEC Maritime English Test for Deck Ratings is designed to assess candidates’ English language competence between the levels of ‘Beginner’ and ‘Elementary’ (CEFR (Europe): A1 to A2 and ILR (United States): Level 0 to 1). A candidate at these levels will be able to understand and produce frequently used expressions relating to areas of most immediate relevance to the function of a Deck Rating on board a ship.

Test Contents

The English Test for Deck Ratings will look for the user to demonstrate competency in Maritime English and cover the five language skills:

  • Listening
  • Reading
  • Grammar
  • Vocabulary
  • Numeracy

Listening questions comprise 40% of the total test and are designed to be context-rich. Each question aims to simulate real-world scenarios, including sound effects such as storm noises, radio interference, static, and international accents. Standard Marine Communication Phrases (SMCPs) are used throughout the tests, and listening questions feature VHF and hand-held radio, training briefings, emergency PA broadcasts, and face-to-face crew encounters.

Test Duration

The user must attempt the test in 90 minutes and complete it in one sitting. Candidates will be timed as they tackle the questions to simulate exam conditions, and they must achieve a minimum score of 65% to pass. If a candidate does not answer all of the questions by the time the timer runs out, they will fail those unanswered questions. Test delegates will be allowed a second attempt at the test for free should they not succeed the first time. If they fail a second attempt, the test must be re-purchased.

Book Your Maritime English Test

You can book your Maritime English Test for Deck Ratings at VIRSEC and learn all you need to know about the Maritime English Tests. To discuss the pricing associated with bulk purchasing, please either use the contact us form page, or email the team at training@virsec.org. Alternately, call us on +44 (0)161 763 4427 and ask to speak to Olivia or Cathy.

Course Details

£20+vat

  • Duration:
    90 minutes
  • Participation:
    Individual
  • Type:
    Fully Online
  • Certification:
    American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) Recognised

Contact Us to Discuss Bulk Course Licencing