Frequently Asked Questions
Find the answers to your questions here
Your Questions, Answered
Do you have questions? You’re not alone — and we’re here to help.
Below you’ll find answers to some of our most Frequently Asked Questions about studying with Maritime Training Academy, including information on the course content, access & exams, payments & policies, and technical help & student support.
We recommend checking the list below to see if your query has already been answered. If you can’t find what you’re looking for or would like to discuss something in more detail, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with the team— we’re always happy to help.
Hear from Our Founder
Hear directly from our founder and Managing Director, Ian Biles, as he shares his story behing Maritime Training Academy, and what you can expect as a student. You will also hear from Andrea Hill, our Student Liasion Officer who will guide you through what to expect as a student.
Frequently Asked Questions
Course Content & Delivery
How long does the Diploma course last?
Course modules are released over a 12-month period from the course start date. Exams can then be taken after this 12-month period or after a further six months in October and April each year. If required, it is possible to have a six-month extension on payment of the appropriate fee allowing a maximum of two years from the start date to complete your studies.
Do I have to enrol by the course start date?
No, the enrolment period is open for 6 months from the start date of the course. The course must be completed 18 months after this course start date.
What’s the difference between a Diploma and a Certificate?
The course modular material is identical for both the Diploma and Certificate, all students are required to complete and pass the student assignments. The Diploma student will also be required to sit a 3 hour written examination once they have passed their assignments.
How much time should I spend on study?
This will obviously depend on you and your circumstances. It is recommended that you complete one module each month and this should take between 10-30 hours. If you have been away or are at sea, we can offer a six month extension period for a fee of £250 to complete your studies. Tutors can assist with time management issues.
Do I have to enrol by the course start date?
No, the enrolment period is open for 6 months from the start date of the course. The course must be completed 18 months after this course start date.
Academic level of my diploma?
The University of Portsmouth regard all the Maritime Training Academy’s courses to be at least at NVQ level 3.
How much time should I spend on study?
This will obviously depend on you and your circumstances. It is recommended that you complete one module each month and this should take between 10-30 hours. If you have been away or are at sea, we can offer a six month extension period for a fee of £250 to complete your studies. Tutors can assist with time management issues.
Is the course all online?
Yes. All training will be delivered online through a dedicated student portal, providing easy access to the course modules.
Can I study offline?
Yes. The course modules are available for download in PDF format through the student portal, allowing you to study offline at your convenience.
How is the Diploma course structured? (Modules etc)
One module is released on the 1st of the month, from the intake start date either (April/October).
Access, Exams & Certification
University of Portsmouth (if this relates to recognition or partnership)
Our Diplomas are recognised by the University of Portsmouth. Therefore, students who successfully complete our Diplomas can use them as part of the evidence offered in a portfolio for claiming Accredited Prior Learning (APL). This is against the University of Portsmouth’s partnership program, work-based learning courses.
What is the academic level of my Diploma?
The University of Portsmouth regard all the Maritime Training Academy’s courses to be at least at NVQ level 3.
Can I take my exam overseas?
Yes. As long as the venue is agreeable with the Training Team and they are notified 8 weeks before the exam date. The venue needs to meet certain criteria set out by the Training Department, and if any charges are incurred these will need to be met by the student. You can also take your exam online (additional charges apply).
What happens if I do not complete the assignments?
If you require a further 6 months extension period to complete your assignments and exam then you are required to pay £250.00 (+ VAT if applicable) extension fee. If you have allowed your coursework to lapse a further 6 months then we will require you to re-register for half of your original course fees.
Do my assignments need to be in by certain dates?
No. As long as all modules have been handed in 6 weeks prior to your exam. We recommend that you try and study one module per month to allow you to fit this into your busy schedule.
Is there a cost to receive a printed certificate?
Students have the option to purchase our Completion Pack for £50.00. This includes a printed certificate with embossed seal, presented in a folder along with a congratulations and referral card, notepad and MTA sticker. For International students we recommend the courier option for safe shipping at a fee of £25.00
How much does it cost to take the online exam?
The cost of the online exam is £125.00 +VAT if applicable.
Will I receive a certificate on completion?
Yes. Upon successful completion you will receive a digital PDF Certificate and PDF Course Seal.
Are there success stories from past students?
Yes. We love to hear from our students you will find more success stories here
Payment, Policies & Admin
Do I have to pay VAT if I am a foreign student?
UK:
- Company or Individual VAT will be charged at standard rate.
Member of the EU:
- Company/individual that can provide a VAT number, no VAT will be charged.
- Company/individual that has no VAT number, VAT will be charged at a standard rate.
Rest of the World:
- Company/individual, no VAT will be charged.
What if my circumstances change and I need to cancel?
Cancellations can only be made in writing before the start date of the course. Course fees less an administrative charge of £500 will be refunded. After the start of a course the student becomes liable for all course fees even if payment plan option is chosen.
What if I need to update my personal details?
Please contact your account manager or training department via email training@maritime.uk.com to update your personal details.
Technical Help & Support
What if my personal login doesn’t work?
In the unlikely event of this happening please contact us; we will try to resolve this as soon as possible so you can continue with your studies.
Is there a discussion forum or community?
Yes. You will find our Student Forum located in our Student Platform.
For more information please contact us via the below
Call Us
To contact us via phone, please call +44 (0)1252 739 779
Email Us
To contact us via email, send an email to info@maritimetrainingacademy.com
Supported By
