The merchant navy comprises ships engaged in transporting goods, people, or providing non-military services.

It plays an integral role in our lives. For instance, the materials used to construct homes may arrive via bulk carriers, the fuel powering our vehicles is transported by tankers, and the fruits we find in markets come from various countries via refrigerated containers aboard ships.

The merchant navy offers an enticing career path, with several compelling reasons to join: 

• Lucrative Income (Tax-Free): Enjoy substantial earnings.
• Independence and Responsibility: Assume significant responsibilities at a young age.
• Rapid Promotions: Opportunities for swift career advancement.
• On-Board Comfort: No expenses while at sea, with high-class accommodations and cuisine.
• Global Exploration: Travel the world and experience diverse cultures.
• Adventure Awaits: Each day on a ship brings new challenges and experiences.
• Extended Vacations: Time to pursue personal interests.
• Future Ashore: Opportunities for shore-based careers.

If you thrive on adventure, prefer outdoor environments, and seek a dynamic alternative to the typical 9-to-5 job, the merchant navy is an ideal choice.

• While a student pursuing traditional studies spends several years in college before entering a specific field, a candidate joining the merchant navy undergoes just one year of training at an approved institute. During this onboard training, they already start earning, and the stipend received often exceeds entry-level salaries in other professions.
• By the age of 21, while most graduates are still job hunting, a merchant navy officer has completed training and is earning over one lakh rupees per month aboard a ship.

The merchant navy encompasses various ship types, all with the primary purpose of transporting goods or people across the globe. These ships play a crucial role, moving 96% of the world’s goods and ensuring the smooth functioning of the global economy. Shipping remains a vital link in international trade, and it stands as one of the thriving sectors in the industry. When you join the merchant navy, you have the option to become a navigating officer (also known as a deck officer) or an engineering officer.

Educational Requirements:

• For 10+2 Science students: You must have completed your 10+2 education from a recognized Board/University with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM), achieving at least 60% marks in PCM aggregate and 50% in English. OR
• For BSc students: A B.Sc degree in Physics, Mathematics, Chemistry, or Electronics, with Physics as an individual subject in one of the years. The final year average should be no less than 60%, provided that you have also passed the 10+2 examination with PCM from a recognized Board. (Note: Students awaiting results can also apply.)
• Age Limit: Applicants must be at least 17 years old and not exceed 25 years at the start of the course (which commences on the 1st Monday of February and August each year).
• Physical and Medical Standards: You must meet the medical fitness standards outlined by the Merchant Shipping Medical Examination Rules, and your eyesight should be 6/6 in each eye without visual aid.

• The term “sponsored candidate” refers to someone who will be sponsored with a sea berth upon completing their training. This sponsorship pertains to the berth itself, not the tuition fees.
• A sponsored candidate who meets all qualifying criteria receives a sea berth through Training Ship Rahaman.
• Candidates pursuing the course under sponsorship have a distinct advantage in terms of employment opportunities and training assurance.

Method 1:

• Apply to Training Ship Rahaman for the position of Deck Cadet.
• The company will invite eligible applicants for a selection test, provided they meet the qualification criteria set by DG Shipping and the Company.
• The selection test includes a written exam, psychometric evaluation, interview, and medical assessment.
• If the applicant successfully clears the selection test, they proceed to take the IMU (Indian Maritime University) entrance test.
• Upon passing the IMU entrance test, the applicant is advised to undergo a 1-year pre-sea course at an institute chosen by the company.

Method 2:

• The applicant appears for the IMU entrance test.
• After passing the IMU entrance test, the applicant receives counseling and is allocated a Pre-Sea College anywhere in India.
• In this method, the applicant waits for companies to conduct campus recruitment or applies directly to companies upon completing the course.

• According to the stipulations from D.G. Shipping, every candidate aspiring to become an officer or engineer on ships must undergo one year of pre-sea training ashore. Approved pre-sea training institutes across India offer this training.
• The cost of pre-sea training typically ranges from approximately ₹2.5 to ₹3.0 lakh, and candidates are responsible for covering this expense

•  It’s essential to recognize that pre-sea training is not subsidized by the government. The high costs associated with conducting pre-sea training stem from various requirements, and these expenses are borne by the training institutes.

• Yes, once you have been selected, we can facilitate education loans from banks at prevailing market rates. Alternatively, you can independently approach a bank to secure educational loans with favorable interest terms.

• The Indian Maritime University (IMU) was established by an Act of Parliament. Its headquarters are in Chennai, with additional campuses in Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, and Vishakhapatnam. For detailed information about IMU, visit their website at www.imu.edu.in.

• Once you have fulfilled all the selection formalities, including meeting the requirements set by the Company and the Directorate of Shipping, you will undergo a 1-year pre-sea training at a Maritime Institute of our choosing. Details about the institute will be provided in due course. This residential pre-sea course involves staying in a hostel on campus.
• During the 1-year pre-sea training, you’ll receive instruction in shipping-related fields and general topics. Passing both semesters is essential to meet the prerequisites for going on board ships.
• Upon successfully completing the 1-year pre-sea training, ensure that your travel documents are in order. If you haven’t already, apply for your passport immediately upon selection as a deck cadet or have it ready before completing the first semester.
• Once your travel documents are prepared, you’ll proceed to onboard training. This training period lasts for 18 months, during which the company will provide a stipend of USD 400 per month while you’re on board the ship.
• After completing the 18-month onboard training, you’ll need to appear for promotional exams conducted by the Government of India. Qualifying in these exams makes you eligible to become an officer on a ship.
• For further details on career progression, refer to the attached brochure or visit our website at www.maritimetraining.in

• To verify the list of educational boards that are not recognized by IMU, please visit the following link: IMU Unrecognized Boards.

• Our approach emphasizes providing trainees with a comprehensive experience across various types of ships. Therefore, we divide the 18-month onboard training into three intervals of 6 months each. After completing 6 months on one type of ship, the trainee returns home for a short vacation before embarking on another ship for the next 6 months.

• Absolutely! You’ve got it right. Trainees who undergo training in the deck department to become Navigating officers are referred to as “deck cadets.” Similarly, those in the Engineering department are known as “Junior Engineers.”

• Upon successfully completing the training, candidates receive a BSc in Nautical Science from an affiliated university. Additionally, they are awarded the 2nd Mates Certificate of Competency by the Government of India, Ministry of Shipping. This qualification qualifies them to serve as officers on board ships.

Deck officers play a crucial role in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of a ship. Here are some of their key duties and responsibilities: 

• Navigation: Navigating the ship from the bridge during watches (shifts) while at sea. 
• Safety Compliance: Ensuring strict adherence to safety regulations. 
• Cargo Operations: Coordinating cargo loading and discharge procedures. 
• Ship Maintenance: Supervising the maintenance and upkeep of the vessel. 
• Crew Oversight: Coordinating and supervising crew activities. 
• Captain’s Instructions: Following instructions from the captain regarding ship operations.
• Record Keeping: Maintaining accurate and up-to-date records of all ship activities.

• Absolutely! There are numerous job opportunities available for ship captains and chief engineers ashore, particularly in marine-related or engineering fields. Your experience and expertise gained at sea can be valuable assets in various shore-based roles.

Choosing the right shipping company is crucial for your career. Here’s what you should look for: 

• Career Path: Join a company that offers a clear career progression. 
• Structured Training: Opt for a company with a well-defined training program. 
• Safety and Quality: Check the company’s safety and quality record. 
• Fleet Size: A sizable fleet ensures continuous employment and diverse experience.
• Past Track Record: Research the company’s history. While stipend remuneration matters, prioritize learning during your cadet period. The knowledge and experience gained will serve you well as an officer in the future. Seek out companies that provide extensive training opportunities.