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Home > Articles > How to Join Merchant Navy? After 12th and 10th, Salary, after Graduation, Eligibility, Medical Requirements and Best Colleges
How to Join Merchant Navy? After 12th and 10th, Salary, after Graduation, Eligibility, Medical Requirements and Best Colleges
Nikita Parmar
Updated on 07th September, 2024 , 16 min read
How to Join Merchant Navy: All-Encompassing Overview
The Merchant Navy is a specialized industry wholly dedicated to commerce activities such as freight and passenger transportation over marine routes. The Merchant Navy, sometimes known as "Shipper Marine," is an important element of the worldwide distribution industry and an important part of any country's economy. Merchant Navy is one of the most popular courses after engineering due to its great salary package and unique employment options. Because most of the world's economic transactions occur on the ocean, the naval forces sector has a strong global image.
A merchant naval officer's job includes travelling worldwide, handling cargo, inspecting ship direction, maintaining the ship, cleaning the boats, learning about different cultures, etc. It is thrilling for people who are interested in travelling or have been bitten by the travel bug. They must make a huge sacrifice by not seeing their family for an extended period. Their work time is around 6-7 months, followed by a continuous holiday of 4-5 months. The best aspect of this position is that it is tax-free. Because you must dwell outside of India for at least six months, you will be granted NRI status.
Learn More:
- Indian Merchant Navy Recruitment 2024: Notification Out for 4000 Vacancies !
- Merchant Navy Salary, Job Profile, Salary in India, Qualification, Entrance Exam, Courses
- Merchant Navy in India: Courses, Eligibility, Types, Top 10 Institutes, Fees, Merchant Navy vs Indian Navy and Salary 2023
How to Join Merchant Navy Major Highlights
Those interested in working aboard ships and travelling by sea enrol in the Merchant Navy program. A candidate who enrols in a merchant navy school will study a speciality that will assist them in understanding how a ship's basic workings operate. The following table gives details to learn more about how to join the merchant navy:
Particulars | Details |
Industry | Marine |
Profession | |
Eligibility | 10+2 or at least a graduate degree in a relevant field. |
Specialization | B.Tech Marine Engineering B.Tech Ship Building Diploma in Nautical Science |
Age Limit | Minimum: 17 years Maximum: 25 years |
Entrance Exams | Indian Maritime University Common Entrance Test (IMU CET), JEE Advanced, All India Merchant Navy Entrance Test (AIMNET) |
Job Opportunity | School, College, Educational Institute, Professional College, etc. |
Average Starting Salary | Rs. 3.50 – 5 LPA |
Highest Salary | Rs. 63 LPA |
How to Join Merchant Navy: Important Facts to Consider in India
Before India gained independence from the United Kingdom, the SS Loyalty sailed from India to Britain in 1919, establishing the present Indian Merchant Navy. India now ranks 15th in the world in terms of total DWT. India now contributes approximately 12.8% of officers and 14.5% of ratings to the global maritime community. This is one of the highest for any country.
India has numerous merchant shipping businesses. Great Eastern Shipping, Tolani Shipping, SCI (now a private firm), and Seven Islands Shipping (an ownership company) are some of the most well-known shipping companies in India.
How to join the Merchant Navy After the 10th?
If a person wishes to join the Navy after finishing class 10, they must achieve a grade point average of 40%. This condition is likewise permitted for just select levels; entrance is determined by a series of examinations and assessments. The individual must first pass one exam, followed by a screening test and a written examination. Following the 10th standard, a student can choose from a variety of merchant navy courses. It includes the following:
- Deck Rating Course
- Diploma in Marine Engineering (follow it up with DME pre-sea training).
- Engine Rating Course
- GP Rating Course
- NCV Course
- Saloon Rating Course
To join the Merchant Navy after high school, an individual must meet several requirements, which are mentioned below-
- First and foremost, the individual must be an Indian citizen and unmarried, which applies to both males and females.
- A few exams are administered, and if a candidate passes the written examination, they must submit to a medical examination.
- After graduating from class 12th, an individual can choose a professional path that begins with six months of pre-sea training.
- Then, as a trainee, join the merchant fleet.
- Following that, aim to get to the rank of able-bodied seaman.
- Following that, after passing the COC test, aim to get promoted to bosun.
- Following that, candidates are ready to become the ship's captain, then a chief officer, then a second officer, and finally, try to pass the DG shipping examinations and become deck officers.
How to Join the Merchant Navy after the 12th?
After finishing secondary school, it is not difficult to pursue a job in the merchant marine. Candidates can acquire a career in the Navy by passing various examinations and achieving certain percentages in this class. But if they are considering a career in the merchant navy after graduating from high school, keep the following factors in mind-
- One must deal with a variety of situations that are not ideal for everyone.
- After finishing their higher education, they are eligible to participate in several merchant navy courses.
- To begin with, one must have at least a 60% in class 12 after studying Physics, Mathematics, or Chemistry.
- The candidate must be unmarried, which applies to both males and females.
- An applicant should be between the ages of 17 and 25.
- Physical fitness is an important need in this career.
- A practitioner must have a fitness certificate to enrol in this course.
- The term "addiction" refers to the condition of becoming addicted to anything.
- The entrance exam will be used to determine admission, which will be followed by a screening test and a written examination.
- Following the completion of the test, there will be an interview round, followed by a medical examination.
- The ship training course must be completed by the candidate.
How to Join Merchant Navy Eligibility Requirements
Individuals must have studied physics, math, or chemistry in class 12th and have received at least 60% of their marks to be eligible. The following are some of the requirements for the merchant navy-
- The term "virtual reality" refers to the process of creating a virtual reality experience.
- English is the required language.
- As a result, a candidate must obtain 50% in English subjects. Relationship status is also an important consideration in the merchant fleet.
- As a result, their relationship status should be unmarried at the time of joining, which is significant for both men and women.
- If you are pursuing a B.Sc. in Maritime Science, for example, one should have 6/6 vision in each eye; ocular vision is important in many areas.
- If they want to study (B.Tech.) Marine Engineering, their eye vision can be plus or minus 2.5, and their unaided vision should be 6/12 in both eyes, 6/9 in one eye, and 6/12 in the other.
- Colour blindness is not tolerated in the merchant marine.
- One must be 17 years old to join, and applications are accepted until they are 22 years old.
- One should be in decent physical shape if one wants to join the merchant marine.
How to join Merchant Navy Steps to Consider in India
Students who want to join the merchant navy must take the steps outlined below-
- Step 1: Applicants must pass their class 12 board examinations with a minimum of 60% or equivalent CGPA and a requisite subject mix of Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
- Step 2: Students can then apply for and pass the JEE and IMU CET entrance tests, followed by an interview and medical examination stage.
- Step 3: Applicants must then enrol in a BSc nautical science program at any of the country's leading nautical science schools.
- Step 4: Students must then complete their 18-month cadet onboard training before applying for the Indian government's competence exam.
- Step 5: Join as a Third Officer, then apply for rank upgrades and promotions. After beginning as a Third Officer, candidates can take yearly tests and pass them with flying colours.
How to Join the Merchant Navy in India?
The candidate can prepare for a career in the merchant navy by following the stages outlined below throughout their academic years-
- The student must complete Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
- Retain normal vision, which is necessary; however, glasses with a plus or negative of 2.5 are permitted.
- Before employment, the student may be required to take a ship-training course.
- The training is typically brief, with applicants learning about fundamental travel security considerations.
How to Join Merchant Navy Medical Requirements
Joining the merchant navy has several medical prerequisites. To begin with, physical fitness is a must for joining the merchant navy. The candidate's mental and physical health should be great, with no physical symptoms. Below are some of the most important medical needs for the merchant navy-
Constitution
The candidate should not have a weak constitution in any way; his or her weight should be less than 42 kg, and his or her maximum height should be 150 cm. The chest should be at least 5 centimetres larger.
Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT)
There should be no harm in any of the three.
There are many other medical disorders, such as those of the lymphatic system, respiratory system, digestive system, skin, speech, neurological system, and so on, that should not be a barrier to their entering the merchant marine.
Skeletal System
There should be no joint or muscle limitation, no deformity of the chest or any joint, no aberrant curvature of the spine; and any fracture with a pin inside would be regarded as disqualifying.
How to Join Merchant Navy: Maritime Courses
Some of the best courses that may be followed to enter the Merchant Navy are mentioned below: and
Certificate Course Maritime Catering
A Certificate Course in Maritime Catering is a one-year full-time certification course or diploma program. The following table gives details about the certificate course-
Particulars | Details |
Course Level | Certificate |
Duration | 1-year |
Eligibility | 10+2 |
Examination Type | Semester Type |
Course Fee | INR 10,000 to 3 Lakhs |
Admission | Merit-based or Entrance based |
Average Starting Salary | INR 1 to 20 Lakhs |
Top Job Profiles | Chief Cook, Catering Officer, General Steward, Hotel Manager, Maintenance Manager. |
Top Recruiting areas | Hospitals, hotels, airlines, motels, cruise lines, guest houses, restaurants, industrial canteens, and resorts are all examples of shipping zones. |
Diploma in Nautical Science
Diploma in Nautical Science is a one-year full-time Diploma study in Nautical Science. 10+2 with Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry or an equivalent test with a score of 55% from a recognized board is required for eligibility. The following table gives details about the diploma course-
Particulars | Details |
Course Level | Diploma |
Duration | 1-year |
Eligibility | 10+2 |
Examination Type | Semester Type |
Course Fee | INR 2,000 to 3 Lacs |
Admission | Merit-based or Entrance based |
Average Starting Salary | INR 2 to 15 Lacs |
Top Job Profiles | Marine Engineering Instructor, Operation Manager, Trainee Navigating Officer, Teacher, Lecturer |
Top Recruiting areas | Indian Naval Sciences, Port Operations Companies, Weather Forecasting Centers, Educational Institutes |
Recruiters | SMEC Automation Private Limited, American Cruise Lines, GMMCO Limited, GE Shipping Co Limited, TMC Shipping Private Limited |
BE Marine Engineering
The B.E. in Marine Engineering course is the study of the manufacture, design, development, and maintenance of sea equipment used in boats, ships, submarines, or any other kind of water transportation. The following table gives details about the bachelor's course-
Particulars | Details |
Course Level | BE Marine Engineering |
Full Form | Bachelor of Engineering in Marine Engineering |
Level | Graduate |
Duration | 4 year |
Eligibility | 10+2 |
Examination Type | Semester Type |
Average Tuition Fees | INR 15,000 to 15,00,000 |
Admission | Merit-based or Entrance based |
Average Starting Salary | INR 5,00,000 - 12,00,000 |
Top Job Profiles | Maritime Educators, Second Marine Engineersa a , Ship Manager, Ship Operator, Marine Surveyor, Chief Marine Engineer, Port Manager, and so on. |
Top Recruiting areas | Research and Deployment Centers, Ship Building Companies, Naval Jobs, Harbours and Ports, Colleges and Universities, etc. |
How to join Merchant Navy: Subjects & Syllabus
The merchant navy training is completed after passing an admission examination, a screening test, and a medical exam. Candidates are also given a final written examination; those who pass the exam are invited to an interview and, later, a medical test. After classes 10th and 12th, a candidate can pursue a merchant navy course. In both circumstances, the following subjects are available for selection-
Classes | Subjects and Syllabus | |
After 10th | Near Coastal Voyage (NCV) Commercial Diving Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS) GP Rating |
- |
After 12th | To join as a Deck Officer | To join as an Engineer |
B.Sc. Nautical Science Diploma in Nautical Science (Leads to a BSc in Nautical Science) | B.E. Marine Engineering B.E. Naval Architecture, and Offshore Engineering B.E. Harbour & Ocean Engineering B.E. Mechanical Engineering B.Sc. Marine Catering B.E. Electrical & Electronics Engineering Electro-Technical Officer Course | |
Most-Sought After Specializations in Merchant Navy
In the maritime industry, there are many specializations depending upon interests and inclinations of the one who wants to pursue the course. Some of the most popular specializations are mentioned below:
Specialization in Deck Department
Navigation officers or captains make up this department. The responsibility includes keeping the direction of the ship and ensuring that merchant ships sail safely. Had it not been for their presence, there would not have been a smooth running of maritime operations.
Specialization in Engine department
Another equally popular proficiency in the Merchant Navy is that of the engine department. It provides job opportunities for electrical officers and marine engineers among others. Such professions are always involved in the maintenance and running of the engines on a ship to ensure that they are functioning efficiently at all times.
Specialization in Catering and Hospitality
One of the major roles of the Merchant Navy is the provision of food and hospitality while on board. These experts in catering at sea see to it that every passenger is well-fed and their dietary needs met, and they are also responsible for further facets of hospitality, creating a friendly atmosphere for all.
From this industry, many options are available to you whether you want to work on deck, with the engines, or in catering.
Deck Department Vs. Engine Department in Merchant Navy
General vessel operations, Cargo handling, and navigation come under the deck department.
- The deck officers are very much vital for ensuring that the ship makes its passage safely
- In the procedure to be followed for safety, deck equipment maintenance, and shipbuilding, the responsibility will lie in the hands of deck officers.
- If you like boarding ships, being close to navigating systems operating cargo then the deck department can be the best option.
Engine Department
- Deals with the maintenance of the engine, mechanical, and electrical systems on board ships.
- Engine officers ensure that all mechanical parts receive the best possible maintenance.
- They undertake repairs and routine maintenance to keep the vessel in good running condition.
- The Department of the Engine could be more appealing if you were fascinated by the complex machinery systems, debugging of engines, and hands-on approaches towards ship operations.
How to Join Merchant Navy: List of Best Colleges
Merchant Navy colleges may be found nationwide and are meant to prepare anyone interested in joining this non-combatant commercial force. The following are some of India's best merchant navy colleges for 2024. The Directorate of Shipping has authorized these colleges, and the Ministry of Surface Transport of the Government of India has approved them for personnel training. The following table gives locations with colleges-
Name of Colleges | Location |
Pune | |
Samundra Institute of Maritime Studies | Mumbai |
Tolani Maritime Institute (TMI) | Pune |
International Maritime Institute (IMI) | Delhi |
Vels Academy of Maritime Studies | Chennai |
B.P. Marine Academy Navi | Mumbai |
Coimbatore Marine College (CMC) | Coimbatore |
Institute of Technology & Marine Engineering (ITME) | Kolkata |
Indian Maritime University (IMU) | Chennai |
TS Rahaman | Mumbai |
How to Join Merchant Navy: Salary in 2024
Many people consider the Merchant Navy to be one of the most popular courses and career options. The salary structure after entering the Merchant Navy is listed below-
Average Annual Salary
Name of the Organization | Average Annual Salary |
Government | NA |
Private | INR 75,000 – INR 75,00,000 |
Experience Wise Salary
Experience Wise | Average Annual Salary |
Fresher | INR 27 lakh |
Experienced | INR 1.2 Crore |
Specialization Wise Salary
Specialization | Average Annual Salary (INR) |
Trainee | Rs. 8 lakh |
Deck Cadet | Rs. 1 lakh |
2ndOfficer | Rs. 5 lakh |
3rdOfficer | Rs. 7 lakh |
Chief Officer | Rs. 6 lakh |
Captain | Rs. 10 lakh |
Read More: Merchant Navy Salary 2024.
Job Profile Wise Salary 2024
Merchant Navy Profile | Qualification | Merchant Navy Salary (INR) |
G P Rating | Class 10th | Rs. 25,000 to 60,000 per month |
Trainee Cadet | Class 12th along with a pre-sea Nautical Diploma |
Rs. 25,000 to 85,000 per month |
Deck Cadet | Class 12th along with a pre-sea Nautical Diploma | |
3rd Officer/ Merchant navy 2nd officer salary in India | 2nd Mate (FG) Certificate of Competency | Rs. 1,50,000 to 3,00,000 per month |
Chief Officer | 1st Mate (FG) Certificate of Competency | Rs. 4,00,000 to 6,00,000 per month |
Merchant Navy Captain salary per month | Master (FG) Certificate of Competency | Rs. 8,65,000 to 20,00,000 per month |
Necessary Documents for Merchant Navy
For a smooth and convenient process, documents are crucial. Some of the important documents required are mentioned below:
- Collect all your school certificates, such as passing diplomas with standard mark sheets of classes 10 and 12. Mention further education or other obtained certificates related to the field of maritime, if any.
- A valid passport while joining the Merchant Navy is required, as you would be visiting quite a few countries during your maritime duty. Your passport should have a valid date, and you should keep its photocopy for record purposes.
- Your birth certificate will be required during the entire process of application at various official purposes and serves as proof of your age.
- Keep with you, all the documents that will prove your nationality and identity, such as your voter ID, Aadhar card, and others.
- A complete pre-sea medical check-up, as mentioned above, is much necessary. Keep all the respective medical certificates, which are to be issued by the marine authorities themselves, including vision and hearing test results.
- Ensure that you have the sponsorship letter in case the admission procedure asks for it. In case you have procured sponsorship from a shipping company, ensure that you have it.
- Obtain a character certificate stating your good behavior and conduct from an authority concerned.
- If you have applied for any entrance tests, ensure you have the admit card and result close at hand.
- You should have a few passport-sized photographs handy in case you need to attach them to forms and applications.
- If you have already taken some pre-sea training courses, retain the certificates of training for proof of your prior preparation and dedication.
- Visa (if required): Depending on the country where you will board the vessel, you may need to have obtained a specific type of visa.
Ensure that all of your documentation is in order and consider keeping both hard copies and digitized copies. Set up these documents in such a way that you will not misplace them in the course of the application process, into a folder or file. The ideal is to make sure one has all the paperwork ready well before the deadlines for applications so that the transition is smooth and last-minute issues are nil on joining the career in Merchant Navy.
Merchant Navy Internships and Onboard Training
But part of setting up a career for success in the Merchant Navy involves internships and on-board training. Such forms of vocational training provide practical training, exposure to real life on board in maritime circumstances, and a deeper understanding of the field. Here's a detailed look at onboarding training and internships:
Internships
Pre-Sea Internship: Most of the people undergo pre-sea internships before attending any marine or nautical course. These are usually short internships that give an overview of the job of a seafarer and life on board. A pre-sea internship is the best way to analyze whether joining the Merchant Navy aligns with one's goals and aspiration.
Industry-based Internships: During the course of study of maritime, a number of students participate in industry-based work internships. In this connection, examples include internship opportunities provided by ports, shipping lines, maritime services, among other maritime organizations. They ensure acquisition of practical experience in different areas of the marine industry and implementation of theoretical knowledge in practical ways.
Onboard Training
Cadet Onboard Training: Part of the course usually includes onboard training for candidates after they complete the required academic courses. While on board the actual ships, cadets are subjected to working under experienced officers and crew members. This training period covers the working of ships, emergency procedures, navigation, and other routines taking place on ships.
Competency Training: The cadets earn sea service days during their training on board, which is also a requirement to acquire the necessary credentials and certificates. In fact, the training would not be complete without the sea service, and the hours spent on board should be logged and recorded to satisfy the requirements of the concerned maritime authorities.
Promotion of Ranks: A Cadet can be promoted to higher ranks depending upon experience and completing the required days at sea. The promotions depend on passing the competency tests by the relevant marine authority.
How to Join Merchant Navy in 2024: Skills Required
Some of the most important skill sets required of how to join the merchant navy are listed below-
- Collaborative Effort
- Enjoying Aquatic Activities
- Interpersonal Abilities
- Making Plans and Making Decisions
- Patience and Fortitude
- Practical understanding of Physics, Mathematics, and Navigation, among other things.
- Rational and Analytical Thinking
- Sailing Enthusiasm
How to Join Merchant Navy: Why a Career in Merchant Navy
If you can build a career in the Merchant Navy, you will have substantial benefits and growth for various reasons. This profession is crucial for global trade. Additionally, it ascertains the transportation of goods and resources across the world's oceans. Here are some key points highlighting why you should join the merchant navy in India:
Reasons to Join Merchant Navy | Explanation |
Global Trade Cornerstone | The Merchant Navy is very important for international trade. It transports around 90 per the minerals of the world's goods. It builds connections with continents. Moreover, it channelizes the exchange of commodities. Therefore, it is of the essence for the global economy. |
Contribution in Economic Prosperity | The shipping industry has a major contribution to national economies. It creates jobs and generates substantial revenue. It supports various related industries such as shipbuilding, logistics, and port operations. |
Support in National Security | Vessels of Merchant Navy are essential during wartime and crises. For the hassle-free transportation of troops, equipment, and supplies, they frequently work in cooperation with naval forces. In this way, they have a great role to play in bolstering a nation's maritime security. |
Distribution of Resources | It has a substantial role to play in the distribution of natural resources. Oil, gas, and minerals are well distributed owing to their assistance. This helps in the stable supply of commodities to industries and consumers worldwide. |
How to Join Merchant Navy: Appeal of a Career in the Merchant Navy
Read below the attractive things that a career in merchant navy offers:
Opportunities for Travel: If you are selected in Merchant Navy, you can travel all around the world. You will be exposed to different cultures, traditions and environments. It can be enjoying with adventure.
Good Salary and Benefits: Officers and senior associates at Merchant Navy earn well. This encompasses tax-free income in many countries, allowances, and various perks like free accommodation and meals onboard.
Security of Job and Demand for Profession: The skilled seafarers are in high demand owing to the expansion of global trade. This facilitates job security which is not found in many other industries.
Skill Cultivation and Career Growth: Progression is Merchant Navy in clear-cut. You can starting from cadets and can rise to the ranks of officers, chief engineers, or captains as your experience grows. Additionally, you will learn a lot of skills including navigation, engineering, crisis management, and teamwork. These skills are highly valued and respected and are transferable as well.
Challenges and Diverse Work Environment: Navigating through storms and handling emergencies at sea are a daily challenge in Merchant Navy. You will be able to assess your risk management skills in different setting. This is good for personal as well as professional growth.
How to Join Merchant Navy: Merchant Navy vs Military Navy
Merchant Navy and Military Navy are two different career paths. There are different in job roles, purpose and organization as well. Tabulated below are the major differences:
Parameters | Merchant Navy | Military Navy |
Goal and Purpose | Accountable for safe transportation of goods and passengers. | Principal goal is to male sure national security, manage naval warfare, and guard the country's maritime interests. |
Function | It has economic function in international trade and the global economy. It transports raw materials, finished goods, oil, and other materials. | It is principally responsible for defense operations, power projection, sea control, and deterrence. |
Ownership and Operation | Vessels in the Merchant Navy are generally owned and operated by private companies or corporations. | The Military Navy is a government-controlled entity, funded and operated by the state. |
Operational Environment | Operates on commercial shipping routes and focuses on safe and efficient transportation. | Operates in strategic areas and may be deployed globally to respond to military threats and international crises. |
Duties and Responsibilities | Cargo and Passenger Handling, Maintenance and Navigation | National Defense, Combat and Surveillance |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the various colleges that offer Merchant Navy courses?
Ans. C.V. Raman College of Engineering, AMET University, Balaji Seamen Training Institute, Chennai School of Ship Management, Chidambaram Institute of Maritime Technology, and others provide Merchant Navy courses, Indian Maritime College, International Maritime Academy, and several other institutions.
How much does a Merchant Navy Officer make on average?
Ans. The monthly remuneration of a Merchant Navy Officer ranges from INR 1,00,000 and 7,00,000 INR.
Is there a tax-free wage in the Merchant Navy?
Ans. Yes, sailors working in the Merchant Navy receive tax-free income provided they spend 183 days of the year in international waters; otherwise, the salary is taxable under the statutes of the Government of India.
What are the various job profiles in the Merchant Navy?
Ans. Trainee Cadet, Deck Cadet, 2nd Officer, 3rd Officer, Chief Officer, and Cadet are the various career profiles.
Is working in the Merchant Navy a good job?
Ans. Yes. Merchant Navy is a profitable job option and one of today’s top vocations.
What is the typical salary of a Merchant Navy Captain?
Ans. The monthly remuneration of a Captain in the Merchant Navy ranges from Rs. 8,65,000 to Rs. 20,00,000.
How long do merchant navy officers stay onboard a ship?
Ans. After signing on to a ship, the merchant navy crew stays onboard for at least 4 months until being signed off, depending on the availability of their replacement. If they are not granted sign-off, the officers must remain on board even during anchoring.
How can Merchant Navy officers feed for months on end without coming into contact with the land?
Ans. The ship will be filled with food supplies such as meat, rice, muesli, bread, and so on, which will be chilled and so usable for an extended period of time.