The CES test (Crew Evaluation System) is one of the most widely used maritime English assessments in the world. Developed by Seagull AS, it is used by hundreds of shipping companies to evaluate seafarers’ English proficiency before hiring or promotion. This guide will help you understand exactly what to expect and how to prepare effectively.
What Is the CES Test?
CES stands for Crew Evaluation System. Unlike general English tests like IELTS or TOEFL, CES is designed specifically for maritime professionals, testing the language skills that matter most in real shipboard situations. The test is computer-based, typically takes 60–90 minutes, and results are reported as a percentage score from 0 to 100.
Many major shipping companies — including those in the tanker, bulk carrier, and container sectors — require a minimum CES score for employment or rank advancement. The test is recognized across the industry as a reliable standard for maritime English proficiency.
What Does the CES Test Measure?
Section 1: Vocabulary
The vocabulary section tests your knowledge of maritime terminology, technical terms used on board, and standard maritime English expressions. Questions include gap-fill exercises, matching tasks, and synonym selection in professional context. Knowledge of SMCP (Standard Marine Communication Phrases) vocabulary is particularly important here.
Section 2: Grammar
The grammar section covers verb tenses, modal verbs (especially those used in safety instructions and SMCP), passive voice (extremely common in maritime documentation), conditionals, and prepositional phrases. Questions are presented as gap-fills and error-correction tasks using authentic maritime texts.
Section 3: Reading Comprehension
In the reading section, you will read maritime texts — NAVTEX messages, safety bulletins, incident reports, cargo documentation, and technical manuals — and answer questions testing both overall understanding and the ability to locate specific information quickly. This section is timed, so reading speed matters.
Section 4: Listening
The listening section is the most challenging for many candidates. You will listen to recorded maritime VHF radio communications, port-to-ship dialogues, and onboard crew exchanges. Speakers use a variety of accents reflecting real multinational crew environments — Filipino, Indian, Eastern European, and others.
CES Score Requirements by Rank
Score thresholds vary by company, but the following are common industry benchmarks:
- Ratings (AB, OS, Oiler): 50–60%
- Junior Officers (3rd/4th Officer, 3rd Engineer): 60–70%
- Senior Officers (Chief Officer, 2nd Engineer): 70–80%
- Master, Chief Engineer: 75–85%
Always confirm the specific requirements with your company or crewing agency, as these can vary significantly.
6-Step CES Preparation Plan
Step 1: Take a Diagnostic Test
Before starting any preparation, take a full practice test to establish your baseline score. This will show you exactly which sections need the most work and prevent you from wasting time on areas you already know well.
Step 2: Build Your Maritime Vocabulary Systematically
Create thematic vocabulary lists covering navigation, safety procedures, cargo operations, engineering, and SMCP phrases. Study words in sentence context rather than as isolated lists. Use flashcard apps to review vocabulary daily — consistency matters more than volume.
Step 3: Practice Listening Every Day
Spend at least 20–30 minutes per day on maritime listening practice. Listen to VHF radio recordings, maritime safety videos, SMCP dialogues, and incident debriefs. Always listen without the transcript first, then check what you missed. Gradually increase the difficulty and accent variety.
Step 4: Read Maritime Documents Daily
Read real maritime documents every day: NAVTEX messages, IMO circulars, MAIB incident reports, P&I club bulletins. Practice reading for speed — the CES reading section is timed, and you need to find key information quickly without reading every word.
Step 5: Review Maritime Grammar
Focus on the grammar structures most common in maritime English: passive voice (used extensively in procedures and regulations), modal verbs shall/must/should (critical in SMCP), conditional sentences (used in emergency scenarios), and prepositional phrases common in navigation and cargo contexts.
Step 6: Simulate Real Test Conditions
In the final week before your test, take complete practice tests under real conditions: no reference materials, timer running, quiet environment. After each practice test, review every mistake carefully and understand why you got it wrong. This targeted review is what drives the final score improvements.
Common CES Preparation Mistakes
- Memorising without understanding: Learning word lists without context will not help you in reading or listening tasks where words appear in complex sentences.
- Neglecting the listening section: Many candidates ignore listening until the last moment. It is consistently the most difficult section for non-native speakers.
- Focusing on only one skill: The CES tests all four skills equally. Weakness in any one area will significantly reduce your overall score.
- Not practising with authentic CES question formats: General English practice is useful, but you must also practise with questions in the exact CES format to avoid surprises on test day.
CES Preparation Timeline
- 8 weeks before: Diagnostic test, study plan, begin vocabulary work
- 6 weeks before: Intensive listening and reading practice, grammar review
- 4 weeks before: First full practice tests, targeted work on weak sections
- 2 weeks before: Daily timed practice tests, error analysis
- 1 week before: Light review, rest, logistics preparation
Prepare for the CES Test with Sea Service
At Sea Service, we specialise in helping seafarers achieve high CES and MARLINS scores. Our preparation programme includes authentic practice tests in real exam format, detailed analysis of common error patterns, intensive listening practice with authentic maritime audio, and one-to-one sessions with instructors who have real sea-service experience.
“I passed the CES with 82% on my first attempt after six weeks with Sea Service. My company requires 70% — I was shocked at how much I improved.”
— Dmytro H., Chief Officer
Ready to pass the CES on your first attempt? Book a trial lesson and start your preparation today.