How to Clear the 2nd Mate Exam: My Guide for Aspiring Officers
For every deck cadet dreaming of becoming an officer, clearing the 2nd Mate (FG) exam is a huge milestone. It marks the transition from being a trainee to a licensed officer with real responsibilities. But one question that echoes in every cadet's mind is — “Is it easy?”
The answer is both yes and no. It depends on your preparation, mindset, and discipline.
Let me break it down based on my own experience and the journey most cadets follow.
Is the 2nd Mate Exam Easy?
Let’s be honest — nothing worth having comes easy. The 2nd Mate exam isn’t impossible, but it’s definitely challenging. It tests your knowledge, decision-making, and practical skills that you’ve developed during your sea-time.
The syllabus is vast, covering subjects like:
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Navigation
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Ship Stability
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Meteorology
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Chartwork
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Collision Regulations (COLREGs)
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Oral and written exams
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And various short courses like GMDSS, ROC, ARPA, ECDIS, PSCRB, AFF, and MFA.
It’s not just about mugging up — it’s about truly understanding your role as an officer and being ready for real-world responsibilities.
How to Clear the 2nd Mate Exam: Step-by-Step Guide
1. Plan Your Timeline
Before anything, set a proper plan. If you have 18 months of sea-time, start collecting documents, apply for your eligibility letter from DG Shipping, and choose a good institute for coaching. Most cadets take 6–8 months to prepare.
2. Choose the Right Maritime Institute
Pick a DG-approved institute with good reviews and experienced faculty. Institutes in India like ANGLO EASTERN, HIMT, SAMUNDRA, or TS Rahaman are popular choices. A good institute provides both theoretical knowledge and practical insight.
3. Focus on Core Subjects
Subjects like Chartwork, Stability, and Navigation need daily practice. Allocate fixed hours for each and solve past year papers. Don’t ignore Orals — they carry equal weight and are often the hardest due to unpredictability.
4. Enroll in Mandatory Courses
You must complete short courses like:
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GMDSS
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Radar Observer Course (ROC)
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ARPA
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ECDIS
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PSCRB (Lifeboat Training)
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AFF (Fire Fighting)
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MFA (First Aid)
Each course has its own schedule, fee, and practical assessments. Try to complete them early to focus fully on written/oral exams later.
5. Make Study Groups
Studying with fellow cadets helps a lot. Explaining concepts to each other, sharing notes, and practicing mock orals can boost confidence.
6. Take Care of Your Mental Health
It’s easy to get overwhelmed. Don’t burn out. Take breaks, eat well, stay active, and stay connected with family. A calm and focused mind will always perform better.
Final Thoughts
The 2nd Mate exam is not just a test — it’s a transformation. You’re preparing to take responsibility for lives, cargo, and a multimillion-dollar vessel. It’s serious, and that’s why it feels tough. But with the right planning, hard work, and attitude — you can absolutely clear it.
Is it easy? Maybe not.
Is it possible? Definitely yes.
So stay determined, keep your eye on the goal, and sail ahead with confidence.
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