STCW: The Standards of Training, Certification & Watchkeeping for Seafarers
There are two types of STCW courses: BASIC Training (in 4 modules, in person) or SAFETY AWARENESS (that can be taken online). For some nationalities, you may need by MARITIME Law to take it in person, and it usually takes 2 weeks to take the course + a few weeks to get the signed certification from the school and/or Maritime Local Authority.
Some Cruise Lines will require you to take the Security Awareness course only, others will require you to take the on land full BASIC course before joining your ship. Your recruiter will advise you, once you get a valid job offer.
You must carry the originals with you and they are valid for 5 (five years). You will pay for your course and will not be reimbursed for it.
Some exceptions apply for companies that will offer the training onboard and free of cost.
Not all employers will be able to accept online training. Ask your recruiter before you invest in the wrong program. It should be discussed during your interview, depending on the position/cruise line or concession you will be referred to after your testing, interview, and reference checks are completed.