What is STCW?
The STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers) Convention is the international standard established by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) that sets the minimum training, certification, and watchkeeping requirements for all seafarers. Adopted in 1978 and significantly amended in 1995 and 2010 (Manila Amendments), STCW is the global benchmark for maritime competency.
Every seafarer serving on a seagoing vessel must hold valid STCW certification. Our STCW courses are designed to meet these requirements through comprehensive online training that covers all mandatory modules.
STCW Basic Training — The Four Core Modules
STCW Basic Training is the foundation certification for every seafarer. It consists of four mandatory modules required before serving on any commercial vessel:
Personal Survival Techniques (PST)
Survival at sea, lifejackets, liferafts, abandonment procedures, and in-water survival skills per STCW A-VI/1.1.
Fire Prevention & Fire Fighting (FPFF)
Fire theory, extinguisher use, fire team operations, breathing apparatus, and hot work safety per STCW A-VI/1.2.
Elementary First Aid (EFA)
Primary assessment, CPR, bleeding control, shock management, burns, and fracture management per STCW A-VI/1.3.
Personal Safety & Social Responsibilities (PSSR)
Safe working practices, shipboard organization, MARPOL compliance, fatigue, and emergency procedures per STCW A-VI/1.4.
Online STCW Courses — Flexible and Accessible
Our online STCW courses make it possible to complete your Basic Training without attending a physical training center. Each module includes video instruction, interactive lessons, and knowledge-check quizzes. You can study at your own pace, and your progress is saved automatically — so you can pause and resume whenever your schedule allows.
Upon successful completion of all four modules with a passing score of 70% or higher, you receive your STCW Basic Training certificate, documenting your compliance with the STCW Convention.
Beyond Basic Training: Advanced STCW Courses
For seafarers advancing in their careers, we offer a range of advanced STCW courses beyond Basic Training:
Advanced Firefighting
STCW A-VI/3 — leadership and command in firefighting operations.
Proficiency in Survival Craft
STCW A-VI/2 — lifeboat operation and rescue boat command.
Medical First Aid
STCW A-VI/4 — advanced first aid and medical care at sea.
Security Awareness & Crowd Management
STCW A-VI/6 — ship security, anti-piracy, and passenger safety.
Browse all STCW courses available through Maritime Expert Solutions.