Navigating Exam Stress: Tips for MCA Oral Exam Preparation

Here at Onboard Maritime, we witness first hand a challenge that many of you face during your MCA Orals: Exam Stress. This #MentalHealthAwarenessMonth we shine a light on this important topic and give you some reassurance that you're not alone. Whether you’re a Cadet studying course materials towards your OOW CoC, or a Chief Mate practicing for your MCA Masters Oral Examination or Written Exam, the pressure can feel immense. The weight of future careers in the Maritime Industry and the desire to perform well can sometimes feel like a heavy burden. But remember, taking care of your mental well-being is just as vital as knowing your maritime course work.

#MentalHealthAwarenessMonth - Navigating Exam Stress: Tips for your MCA Oral Exam Prep

So, here are a few practical tips MCA Oral Exam Preparation that helps avoid stress:

1. Effective Study Planning

Feeling overwhelmed often stems from a lack of control, and everyone learns differently (Read more about different learning styles in our blog: Understanding How Different Minds Learn). Create a realistic study schedule, breaking down the vast syllabus into smaller, manageable chunks. At Onboard Maritime, you can access our CoC course materials for a whole year, which gives you plenty of time to work through the course before joining our online sessions with our expert Maritime Lecturers. Our digital courses at Onboard Maritime create bite sized study sessions for you, and each stage can be completed before moving onto the next.  We recommend you attend all the 'live' sessions with our Maritime Lecturers to get the most out of the MCA Oral prep course and use the recorded sessions to refresh your memory.  Having a structured approach to your MCA Oral Exam Preparation can reduce anxiety and boost confidence.

2. Work-Life Balance in Maritime Employment

Getting the right work-life balance is crucial to ensure stress levels don’t bubble over.  Getting enough sleep, eating nutritious meals, and staying hydrated are obvious factors. Even short bursts of physical activity can work wonders in reducing stress hormones and improving focus.  When studying for MCA Exams with Onboard Maritime you’ll be able to shape your e-learning around your lifestyle.  Imagine the benefits of being in control – no more costly hotel stays away from home, or rigid schedules at a maritime college. With all the essential MCA Oral Prep materials and expert Maritime Tutors readily available, you can study for next Certificate of Competency from anywhere, at any time, seamlessly integrating your exam prep into your existing lifestyle.

3. Stay Calm and Carry On

When stress of your next exam hits, your mind might race with worries and "what ifs." Consider integrating mindfulness techniques into your daily routine, both onboard and onshore. Simple breathing exercises, short meditation sessions, or engaging in focused off-screen activities like playing an instrument, painting, doing a jigsaw or simply going for a walk can help you centre yourself in the present moment and quieten those distracting thoughts. Before you know it, you'll find yourself back in the zone and ready to study again.   

4. Seek Support from our Maritime Lecturers

Remember, you're not alone when taking on of our online maritime training courses. Talk to fellow students, family, or friends about how you're feeling.  Sharing your anxieties can lighten the load.  Embarking on your MCA Oral Exam study with Onboard Maritime means you're never alone. Our experienced Maritime Tutors are readily accessible through our Digital Learning Platform, providing you with continuous support. Whenever doubts arise or you need clarification, you'll have a dedicated point of contact to who you can phone, video call or email to discuss concerns, ask questions, and ease any anxieties. With Onboard Maritime, you have a reliable point of contact to guide you through your MCA Oral Exam preparation.

5. Bite-Sized Learning for your next Certificate of Competency

It might feel counterintuitive when deadlines loom, but taking regular breaks is crucial. Step away from your study materials, do something you enjoy, and allow your mind to rest. This will improve your focus and retention in the long run, making your MCA Oral Exam preparation more effective.  With Onboard Maritime, we give you access to our Digital Learning Platform for a whole year, meaning you’re not having to cram studying into a short time.  Learn each bite-sized section at your own pace and complete our topic self-assessments as you go.  Our digital learning modules include a range of interactive materials from descriptive text to 2D & 3D interactive visuals, as well as live and recorded group sessions with our Maritime Teachers.  So, no more all-night cramming and easier bite-sized learning.  Read our blog: Getting ready for Your MCA Oral Exam? 5 Essential Tips You Can't Afford to Miss...

Are you a procrastinator when it comes to studying? You're not alone. Read our blog Stop Procrastinating: 5 Science-Backed Strategies to Help with your Orals Prep

6. Have Confidence in Your Abilities

Instead of dwelling on potential failures, try visualising yourself succeeding in your MCA Oral Exam.  Whether you’re an Officer of the Watch OOW aiming for your Chief Mate CoC, or you’re studying towards your Masters ticket, imagine yourself confidently answering questions and feeling a sense of accomplishment.  This positive mental imagery can boost your self-belief and reduce anxiety. By the time you’ve completed our e-learning course for MCA Oral Preparation Exams you’ll be confident and ready to sit your next Certificate of Competency exam within the Maritime Industry.

7. Remember Your "Why"

Why did you choose this career path within the Maritime Industry the first place? Reconnecting with your passion for working at sea can provide motivation and perspective during stressful times. Remember the exciting career opportunities that await you once you successfully complete your next MCA Oral Exam, whether that’s progressing to the next rank within the same shipping company, moving to another type of vessel or even coming to work ashore.  Your hard work will give you the qualifications you need to move to the next level of your career in the Merchant Navy.  

At Onboard Maritime, we're committed to not only providing you with the best online maritime training but also supporting your overall well-being. Remember, taking care of your mental health is not a sign of weakness, but a sign of strength. By implementing these strategies, you can overcome MCA Oral exam stress and confidently study towards a successful future in the maritime industry.

#MentalHealthAwarenessMonth #MaritimeTraining #MCAOralExam #MCAOralExamPreparation #WellbeingAtSea #OnboardMaritime