2nd Mate (Foreign Going) MMD Exams

A career in the Merchant Navy demands continuous learning and certification. For deck cadets and trainee officers, the 2nd Mate (Foreign Going) examination marks the first big step toward becoming a certified watchkeeping officer on international ships. The Mercantile Marine Department (MMD) under the Directorate General of Shipping, India, conducts these exams.

This blog explains the exam structure, subjects, passing marks, signalling test, and the three oral functions clearly and in detail.

Written Examination Subjects and Passing Marks

The written portion of the 2nd Mate (FG) exam evaluates knowledge of navigation, cargo, ship construction, stability, and meteorology. Each paper carries a maximum mark with a set minimum to qualify.

Terrestrial & Coastal Navigation (TCN) – Max 200, Pass 140, Duration 3 hours
Celestial Navigation – Max 200, Pass 140, Duration 3 hours
Bridge Equipment & Watchkeeping – Max 200, Pass 100, Duration 3 hours
Cargo Handling & Stowage (Cargo Work) – Max 200, Pass 120, Duration 3 hours
Ship Construction, Stability, Ship Safety & Environmental Protection – Max 200, Pass 120, Duration 2–3 hours
Meteorology – Max 100, Pass 50, Duration 2–3 hours

To advance, candidates must pass every subject individually. Furthermore, if they fail one subject, they only need to reattempt that specific paper. This approach saves time and allows them to focus on weak areas.

Signalling Examination

Apart from written subjects, candidates also need to pass a signalling test. This test usually includes Morse code (flash light), the International Code of Signals, and sometimes semaphore. Examiners mark it out of 100, and the pass mark is typically 70.

Because signalling depends on both accuracy and speed, consistent practice is crucial. Moreover, many cadets find this exam one of the toughest, which makes early preparation even more important.

Oral Examinations – The Three Functions

Once the written and signalling exams are cleared, candidates proceed to the oral examinations. These orals are divided into three functions, each focusing on different responsibilities of a deck officer.

Function 1 – Navigation

This function tests the candidate’s ability to manage bridge operations and navigation effectively.

Rules of the Road (COLREGs)
Watchkeeping duties on the bridge
Passage planning and position fixing
Determining compass error (gyro and magnetic)
Practical use of navigational aids (Radar, ARPA, GPS, ECDIS, echo sounder, log)
Distress communication and GMDSS basics
Correct actions in emergencies such as collision, restricted visibility, fire, or man overboard

Function 2 – Cargo Handling & Stowage, Ship Operation and Care for Persons Onboard

The second function focuses on cargo operations and onboard management.

Bulk, container, Ro-Ro, and tanker cargo handling
Stowage, segregation, and securing of cargo
Application of the IMDG Code for dangerous goods
Cargo stability calculations (GM, free surface effect, trim, list)
Pollution prevention during loading and discharging
Use of firefighting and lifesaving appliances
Medical first aid and ensuring crew and passenger safety

Function 3 – Ship Construction, Stability, Ship Safety and Environmental Protection

The third function highlights ship structure, stability, and compliance with international conventions.

Identifying structural members and stresses on a ship
Performing stability calculations (GM, trim, list, damage stability)
Understanding Load Line and Tonnage conventions
Procedures for dry docking, grounding, and stress management
Compliance with SOLAS, MARPOL, ISM Code, and Load Line rules
Maintaining records like Oil Record Book and Garbage Management Plan
Preparing for emergencies and promoting shipboard safety culture

Examiners evaluate each function separately. Therefore, if a candidate fails one function, they only need to repeat that particular oral exam. This system ensures that officers achieve competence in all essential areas.

Conclusion

The 2nd Mate (FG) exam serves as the gateway to a professional career at sea as an Officer of the Watch. With six written subjects, a signalling test, and three oral functions, the exam thoroughly evaluates both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

To succeed, candidates should study charts and stability numericals regularly, practice signalling every day, and prepare for oral questions by simulating real-life shipboard scenarios. Once they clear all stages, they earn the Certificate of Competency (CoC), which officially qualifies them as licensed 2nd Mates in the Merchant Navy.

✅ Key Takeaway: Success in the 2nd Mate (FG) exams requires steady preparation for written papers, daily signalling drills, and strong oral performance across all three functions.

2nd Mate (Foreign Going) MMD Exams