Here’s a step-by-step guide to join the Merchant Navy after 12th:
- Complete 12th with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) with at least 60% marks (including English).
- Choose your department:
- Deck Department (navigation & ship operations): Opt for Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS) or BSc Nautical Science.
- Engine Department (technical & machinery): Opt for B.Tech or Diploma in Marine Engineering.
- Clear the entrance exam:
- Most common: Indian Maritime University Common Entrance Test (IMU CET).
- Others: AIMNET or company-specific exams.
- Pass medical fitness tests checking eyesight (6/6 for better eye), hearing, no color blindness, and overall physical fitness per DG Shipping standards.
- Enroll in a DG Shipping approved Maritime Training Institute (MTI) for 1-year pre-sea training covering theory, practicals, and safety courses like STCW certification.
- Complete sea training by joining a shipping company as a cadet and gain on-ship experience for 18 months (deck) or 6 months (engine).
- Clear competency exams as per DG Shipping to get your licenses and advance through ranks like Third Officer, Second Officer, etc.
Bonus: If you don’t want an officer role, you can join as a rating after 10th or 12th via GP Rating courses, then upgrade over time through experience.
