After a search of gCaptain threads I found your apparent situation has been discussed and responded to in previous threads.
I refer you to a December 2012 thread 100 ton master to 200 ton mate of tow question Maritime TopicsTugs & Towing and the response provided by Jdcavo to the following statement:
“U need to get ur 200 ton mate before they issue u ur mate of towing. Did u take the apprentice mate class?”
*The response was “*Not if he has 3 years of experience as Master. If he does, he can get Mate of Towing Vessels with 30 days on a tug and completion of the TOAR.”
It looks like Mr. Cavo response was following a similar regulatory citation.
2012 11.465 (e) "If you hold any endorsement as a master of steam or motor vessels of any tonnage that is 200 GRT or less.
2024 11.465 (f) holding any endorsement as a master of self-propelled vessels of any tonnage that is less than 200 GRT.
Key will also be your sea letters demonstrating the 1080 days service as a master under the authority of your endorsement.
If I have misread, misinterpreted, misspoke or mislead you: we should get a response to my reply.
It looks like your evaluator was not necessary familiar with your request and decided it need higher authority for the interoperation of regulation.