The MARLINS test is one of the most widely used maritime English proficiency assessments in the world. Whether you are applying to a major shipping company or renewing your crewing agency file, your MARLINS score can determine whether you get the contract — or not. This guide covers everything you need to know to prepare effectively and score above the industry benchmark.
What Is the MARLINS Test?
MARLINS (Maritime Applied Research and Language Improvement Network Solutions) is a standardised English proficiency test designed specifically for seafarers. It was developed in the UK and is used by crewing agencies, shipowners, and maritime training institutes in over 60 countries.
The test evaluates language skills in a maritime context — not general English. You will be tested on vocabulary, grammar, and comprehension related to ship operations, safety procedures, and port communications.
What Does the MARLINS Test Measure?
Vocabulary
Maritime-specific words and phrases: equipment names, operational terms, safety terminology, and nautical measurements. This section catches many candidates off guard because everyday English skills are not enough.
Grammar
Standard English grammar tested through maritime contexts: verb tenses, prepositions, modal verbs (must, should, may), and passive voice. The sentences come from ship documents and bridge communications.
Reading Comprehension
Short texts from ship documents — logbook entries, safety bulletins, cargo instructions, weather reports. You must answer questions about what you read, often under time pressure.
Listening Comprehension
Audio recordings of VHF radio conversations, bridge communications, and safety announcements. You answer questions about what you hear. This section surprises many candidates who have not practised maritime listening.
What MARLINS Score Do You Need?
Most crewing companies set minimum score requirements based on rank. Here are typical benchmarks:
- Rating / AB: 50–55
- Junior Officer (3/O, 4/E): 60–65
- Senior Officer (C/O, 2/E): 65–70
- Master / Chief Engineer: 70–75
A score of 65+ is the widely accepted industry benchmark for officers. Aim for 70+ if you are applying to premium companies such as Maersk, Anglo-Eastern, or Columbia Ship Management.
Step-by-Step MARLINS Test Preparation Plan
Step 1: Know the Test Format
Before studying, understand exactly what you will face. The MARLINS test is computer-based and timed. All questions are multiple-choice. Familiarise yourself with the question types using practice materials before sitting the real test.
Step 2: Build Your Maritime Vocabulary
Vocabulary accounts for a large part of your score. Build it systematically:
- Study 10–15 new maritime terms per day
- Group terms by topic: navigation, cargo, safety, engineering, mooring
- Use flashcards — physical cards or apps like Anki work well
- Read maritime documents in English for 10 minutes every day
Step 3: Revise Core Grammar Points
Focus on the grammar structures most common in maritime English documents and communications:
- Modal verbs: must, shall, should, may, might — and their specific meanings in safety contexts
- Passive voice: “The anchor was let go” / “The cargo must be secured before departure”
- Conditionals: “If the alarm activates, proceed immediately to your muster station”
- Prepositions: alongside, abeam, astern, abreast, forward of, abaft
Step 4: Practise Reading Maritime Texts
Train yourself to extract key information quickly from dense technical documents. Good practice sources include:
- SOLAS chapters (available free from the IMO website)
- IMO circulars and Marine Notices
- IMDG Code sections on dangerous goods labelling
- Your company’s SMS (Safety Management System) manual
- Port state control inspection reports
Step 5: Train Your Listening Skills Daily
The listening section is where many candidates lose the most points. Improve it by:
- Listening to VHF radio recordings every day (search YouTube for “ship VHF traffic”)
- Watching English-language maritime safety films (Videotel, Seagull TV)
- Paying attention to different English accents — the test includes non-native speakers
- Practising dictation: write down what you hear, then check it
Step 6: Take Full Timed Practice Tests
At least one week before your real test, take a full practice test under exam conditions. This helps you identify weak areas, manage time pressure, and build confidence. Do not skip this step — knowing the material and performing under time pressure are two different skills.
Common Mistakes That Lower Your MARLINS Score
- Studying general English instead of maritime English. A grammar book is not enough. The MARLINS test uses ship-specific scenarios that require specialist vocabulary.
- Ignoring the listening section. Many candidates focus only on vocabulary and grammar — and then fail the listening part.
- Not practising under timed conditions. Running out of time is one of the most common reasons for low scores.
- Guessing without elimination. Always rule out obviously wrong answers first before choosing from what remains.
- Cramming the night before. Maritime English requires consistent practice over weeks — it cannot be memorised in one night.
How Long Does MARLINS Preparation Take?
Preparation time depends on your current English level:
- B1 level (intermediate): 3–4 months of daily study
- B2 level (upper-intermediate): 4–6 weeks of focused preparation
- Already using English on board: 2–3 weeks of targeted test practice
The key is consistency. Thirty minutes of daily study beats a long session once a week every time.
How Sea Service Helps You Prepare for the MARLINS Test
At Sea Service School of Maritime English, we offer a dedicated MARLINS preparation course. Our instructors have helped hundreds of seafarers raise their scores by 10–20 points — including officers who failed their first attempt and passed with a high score after our course.
What we offer:
- Targeted vocabulary training matched to the MARLINS test format
- Grammar revision with maritime contexts and practice exercises
- Listening practice with VHF and bridge communication recordings
- Full-length practice tests with detailed score analysis
- Personal feedback and a study plan tailored to your current level and timeline
“I failed the MARLINS test twice. After three weeks with Sea Service, I scored 74. The listening section was the key — I had never practised it properly before.” — Dmitri, 2nd Officer, bulk carrier
Book a free trial lesson and let us assess your current MARLINS level. We will build a preparation plan that gets you to your target score before your next interview.