How Does the RYA Online Exam Work?
You can take the RYA Theory exam at home, online, in a format you’ll be familiar with from the course material. We’ll provide you with live support and feedback (if you take it within our standard working hours). Only a tiny fraction of our students need to have their RYA theory exams invigilated by a face-to-face RYA instructor, and this is only for very specific jobs at sea. Get in touch with us if you think you’ll need an invigilator, we’ll be happy to advise you further and even help you organise one if required.
What if I Fail the RYA Online Exam?
Nearly all our students pass the RYA theory exams first time around, but if you don’t, no sweat! We’ll help you get back on track and you’ll never be charged for retakes or extra support. So long as you are willing to put the effort in and listen to our guidance, we won’t give up on you until you pass.
What’s the Schedule? How Do I Know When the Next Lesson Starts?
The wonderful thing about our RYA online theory courses are that you can study them at your own pace and convenience. There’s no set times for zoom meetings, no disruptions and you’ll never miss a lesson. Each lesson ends with a knowledge check and each module with a module assessment, so you can see how you are progressing and you can get in touch with an instructor whenever you have a question.
I Can See You’re Based in the UK, Can I Study From Abroad?
Yes! We ship our student packs worldwide and we don’t charge for international deliveries. The beauty of taking your RYA theory course online is that you can take it anywhere, anytime.
Why Choose Ardent Training When I’ve Seen Other Online RYA Courses?
We have designed our courses to make the most of modern technology. You can view our courses on your web browser or take them on the go. Our most popular features are our complete range of video lessons bringing the theory to life on our yacht ‘Mipha’, and our instant and unlimited instructor support. Our friendly and highly qualified instructors will answer your questions quickly, and you can even view their profile’s before you sign up. There’s no need to study alone with Ardent Training, with our online forums and discussions features you can introduce yourself and communicate with other students. Our goal is to bring together the convenience of study online without missing the benefits of the more social classroom.
I Commute a Lot. Can I Take My RYA Courses on the Bus/Train?
Yes. To an extent. The entire course is available online meaning you can study anywhere, anytime. However there are a few modules in each course which focus heavily on chartwork and will require you to get out charts and other navigation instruments. This wouldn’t work on your commute so at least those modules will have to be completed where you have access to a desk.
Do I Need to Download Anything to Complete My RYA Courses?
No. You can access and complete the entire course online through your web browser. If you do intend to use a mobile device you will soon have the option of using our app to download lessons for offline viewing, but this is not necessary.
What Are the System Requirements for My Computer?
All our online RYA courses require is an up to date web browser which is the most basic feature of any computer or mobile device. If you want to utilise the videos (not compulsory), your device will need to be able to play sound.
Can I Study for My RYA Qualifications at Sea?
At the moment you will need a stable internet connection. However, our courses are built by sailors, for sailors, and so we know that sometimes seafaring folk don’t always have good internet access. Therefore, soon all of our RYA courses will be available to download for viewing offline using our app.
What Is the Pass Rate? Am I Guaranteed to Get My Rya Certificate?
We have worked hard to provide all the information and exercises needed in an engaging way to help you learn and we have world class experienced RYA instructors on hand 7 days a week to get you there. We will continue to teach you until we are confident you will pass the final exam and even if you dont manage it first time round, we will work on a revision plan for you and prepare a resit.
If you are willing to do your part we are confident we will get you your RYA theory certificate.
Books and Charts Are Supplied With the RYA Online Course. Do I Need a Desk to Use These?
You will need a large, clean, flat space to complete the chartwork accurately. 60x70cm of table space is the minimum you will need to comfortably complete the chartwork. It is possible to work with slightly less but not advisable.
Modules which don’t use the charts don’t need a desk at all but it is still recommended you have a tidy, peaceful study area without distractions.
How Quickly Do You Answer Queries?
Our instructors man the support system from 0800 until 2000 (UK time), 7 days a week. Within these hours we aim to answer all queries submitted via our main live support window within 4 minutes, and most are answered in less than 2 minutes! You can phone us, video call us or just use our chat window. We pride ourselves on employing the most experienced instructors and we are here to help!
Can I Video Call You?
Of course! We are always happy to video call. Just get in touch and we will arrange it for you.
What Happens if I Don’t Finish My Online RYA Theory Course in 12 Months?
12 months is 3-4 times the average time taken to complete our courses. However, we understand that life can throw you curveballs and you could be slowed due to other circumstances.
If your online course nears expiry, just contact us if you need an extension. Sadly there are ‘behind the scenes’ costs we must cover so a small extension fee of £30 per person will be payable for an additional 6 months access.
Can I use my iPad/tablet/phone to complete the course?
Yes. we have invested heavily in making its courses available on all devices. We are also working on a new standalone app for both iOS and Android.
Can I Use My Ipad/Tablet/Phone to Complete the Online Rya Courses?
Yes. we have invested heavily in making its courses available on all devices. We are also working on a new standalone app for both iOS and Android.
Will I Get My RYA Practical Certificate for Completing an Online Course?
No. We only offer RYA shorebased theory courses at Ardent Training. This is the same course as you would otherwise have to complete in a classroom, except with us you can complete it from anywhere you like.
It is not possible to complete the practical element of RYA courses via distance learning. After getting your theory certificate from us you can take this to a practical training centre and book the practical week to complete your full qualification.
Can I Use RYA Certificates/Qualifications to Work Abroad?
RYA qualifications are globally recognized and can allow you to work in many countries. However, it is important to check the specific requirements of the country you wish to work in as some may have additional requirements or their own licensing system.
What is the minimum age to take the online RYA courses?
The minimum age for our online RYA courses is 16. However, parental or guardian permission is required for students under the age of 18.
How Can I Track My Progress Through the Course?
Our online platform has a built-in progress tracker that shows you how much of the course you’ve completed at any given time. You can see the progress of each module as well as the course overall.
Are the RYA Online Courses Accessible for People with Disabilities?
We aim to make our courses as accessible as possible and a lot of people find out video lessons help with that. Please get in touch with us to discuss any specific requirements or accommodations you may need.
What Is the Refund Policy for Online RYA Courses?
Under distance selling regulations you have a statutory cooling-off period of 14 business days from the day you receive your student pack. At any time during this period, you can notify us that you wish to cancel your contract with us and your course fees will be refunded on return of the undamaged student pack (all items sent via post).
The course materials must be returned in an ‘as new’ condition and the postage paid. Should a refund be requested, access to the online course material will be terminated immediately. If the student pack and/or its contents have been damaged this will be deducted from your refund accordingly.
Is There an Option for Group Enrolment for RYA Online Courses?
Yes, we offer group enrolment options for teams or groups who wish to take the course together. Group discounts may be available depending on the size of the group. Please contact us for further details.
Can I Switch Between Devices While Taking the Course?
Absolutely. Our system will save your progress in real-time, so you can switch between your desktop, laptop, tablet, or mobile device seamlessly, without losing your progress.
Are there any quizzes or practice tests before the final exam?
Yes, there are regular knowledge checks and each module ends with a module assessment, we have also built mock tests to help you get comfortable with the exam format and check your understanding of the course material.
How long do I have to wait for the results of my final exam?
We aim to get any exams marked and the results to you within 2 hours. We usually achieve this in less than 1 hour. We won’t keep you hanging on in suspense.
Are there any extra charges for shipping course materials internationally?
No, we don’t charge for international deliveries. Our goal is to ensure everyone, regardless of their location, can access our courses without incurring additional costs.
What happens if there’s a technical problem while I’m taking the course?
Our technical support team is always ready to help with any issues you may encounter. If you run into a problem, simply reach out to us through our live support, or email us at info@ardent-training.com.
How often are the course materials updated?
Our team regularly updates course materials to ensure they align with any changes or updates in the RYA syllabus. Rest assured, you’ll always have access to the most current and accurate information. Minor changes are made on an almost daily basis.
What if I already have some sailing experience? Can I skip some parts of the course?
Our RYA online courses are designed to cater to a range of experiences, from complete beginners to seasoned sailors. However, the RYA states that all the course content must be completed, and the required number of hours must be met on every topic in the syllabus so you will still need to work through the complete course, and take all the module assessments. That being said, if you are confident, you will no doubt fly through some parts, and we have made a very comprehensive course so I hope that you will find something new in every lesson.
Do I need any prior knowledge or experience before taking the RYA online course?
Each course has specific requirements before starting. To find out more, check the individual course pages or get in touch and we will help you find the right course for you.
Are there any discounts available for multiple course purchases?
Where multiple students book together we can usually arrange a small discount. Please get in touch with us for more information.
Can I gift an RYA online course to someone else?
Yes, you certainly can. RYA online courses make a great gift for anyone interested in sailing. Just get in touch and we will sort it all for you. We can either gift wrap the student pack or provide you with a gift voucher that the recipient can use to access the course.
What level of English proficiency do I need to take an RYA course online?
Our courses are conducted in English, so a basic understanding of English is necessary. However, our courses are designed to be easy to follow and understand, and our instructors are always ready to help if you have any difficulties.
Can I complete an RYA online course in another language?
Currently, our courses are only offered in English