Quick Summary
The Merchant Navy is one of the most exciting career options for students and graduates alike. Whether you’ve just finished school or are looking to switch careers, this field offers opportunities to travel the world, gain professional skills, and build a rewarding career at sea.
To join the Merchant Navy, candidates need to meet specific eligibility requirements. This includes passing entrance exams, completing onboard training, and meeting standards related to age, education, physical fitness, and medical health. Each of these factors is important to ensure you’re prepared for the demands of life and work at sea.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about how to join the Merchant Navy in 2025, including eligibility criteria, training requirements, and other key considerations to help you plan your journey confidently.
Merchant Navy is a commercial maritime service that transports merchandise from one location to another. More than 90% of goods are transported worldwide using ships. The Merchant Navy is the most essential component of the world economy. It is governed by both the government and private shipping companies.
The basic difference between joining the Merchant Navy and joining the Indian Navy is that the Merchant Navy is a private entity concerned with transporting goods, oil, natural gas, trucks, chemicals, cars, etc. On the other hand, the Indian Navy is concerned with the defense of our country and is a government-controlled entity.
The Merchant Navy utilizes ships for surveys, environmental research, oil extraction, and object recovery from the ocean. It also ensures the efficient movement of goods and passengers across the world’s oceans.
One can join the merchant navy as a cadet or engineer, depending on the educational qualification. One can progress in one’s career with years of experience and relevant sea time. Below are the steps on how to join Merchant Navy after 10th and 12th:
| Criteria | Requirement |
| Education | 10th or 12th pass (preferably with Physics, Chemistry, Math for technical courses) |
| Age | 17 to 25 years |
| Physical Fitness | Medical fitness, including eyesight (6/6 or 6/9), color vision, height, etc. |
| English Proficiency | Minimum 50% in English (10th or 12th) |
| Passport | Must have a valid passport |
| Training | Must undergo a pre-sea training from DG Shipping approved institutes |
If you’ve completed 10th grade, you can start your Merchant Navy career by enrolling in pre-sea training institutes. These institutes provide essential marine training, including navigation, seamanship, and marine engineering basics, preparing you for entry-level roles like ratings or deck cadets in shipping companies.
Completing 12th grade is necessary for those aiming for officer or engineer positions. After 12th, students can join maritime academies to pursue degree courses such as B.Sc. in Nautical Science or B.Tech in Marine Engineering. These programs offer the comprehensive training needed for higher-ranking roles on ships.
The B.Sc. in Nautical Science program at the Indian Maritime University (IMU) is a recognized maritime training course. IMU, a premier institution in India, offers comprehensive training in navigation, safety, and naval operations, preparing students for a successful career in the Merchant Navy.
To join the Indian Merchant Navy, individuals must pass an entrance exam, such as the Indian Maritime University Common Admission Test. After qualifying, individuals are interviewed and medically tested to determine their eligibility. Success in these levels guarantees entrance to maritime training courses and eventual enlistment into the Merchant Navy.
Pre-sea training is vital for Merchant Navy candidates because it provides the practical skills and information needed for maritime operations. Furthermore, attaining the criteria of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW) certification assures that applicants meet international safety and competency criteria, allowing them to serve on commercial ships worldwide.
There are several avenues to join the Merchant Navy:
The Merchant Navy qualifications and eligibility criteria are explained below:
To meet the eligibility criteria, candidates aspiring to join the Merchant Navy must have finished their 10th or 12th-grade education. A solid educational base is essential as it provides people with the needed knowledge and skills for maritime education. Typically, a degree or diploma in nautical science or marine engineering is necessary as a merchant navy qualification for officer roles in the Merchant Navy.
Merchant Navy Age limits for joining vary based on rank and position within the industry.
The necessary skills and attributes for a successful career in the Merchant Navy are as follows:
| Short Exam Name | IMU CET |
| Full Exam Name | Indian Maritime University Common Entrance Test |
| Languages | English |
| Mode of Application | Online |
| Conducting Body | Indian Maritime University |
| Frequency of Conduct | Once a year |
| Exam Level | National Level Exam |
| Exam Duration | 3 Hours |
| Mode of Exam | Online |
| Mode of Counselling | Online |
Merchant Navy courses are provided at the diploma and undergraduate levels. After the 12th standard, candidates can opt for many merchant navy courses at the diploma or undergraduate level.
Choose a suitable course at a maritime institute, such as a deck cadet or marine engineering. After training, pass the Merchant Navy 2025 exam, such as the IMUCET, and interview to become a deck officer or engineer. It’s a fulfilling career and offers global travel opportunities while working at sea. The list of different courses to get into the Merchant Navy is as follows:
1. Diploma in Nautical Science
The Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS) is a one-year undergraduate program. Candidates who have a Class 12th passing certificate with 60% can apply for DNS.
2. B.Sc Nautical Science
A Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Nautical Science is an undergraduate program geared toward training individuals for roles as Deck Officers in the Merchant Navy.
3. B.Tech Marine Engineering
A Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) in Marine Engineering is an undergraduate program that trains individuals to become marine engineers.
The Merchant Navy course fees can vary depending on the institution and course duration. Here is a general range:
By selecting a college whose credentials have been approved by DG Shipping, you can be assured that they’ll accept your qualifications for employment requests globally!
Some of the more popular institutes are:
Be sure to check the current approvals on DG Shipping’s website!
Sponsorship programs with ship owners for the merchant navy are pre-placement programs that shipowners provide. Candidates are selected and guaranteed a place onboard after completing their training (the respective pre-sea course, generally DNS or B.Sc. Nautical Science). The selection process for sponsorship candidates reduces the risk of being left without an onboard training position after qualifying as a Deck Officer or Engineer from college/school.
Popular Sponsorship Companies:
Selection Process:
Tip – Sponsorship = guaranteed job placement. Try to get sponsored BEFORE you start any other course.
These institutes combine classroom learning with hands-on onboard training, giving students the practical skills needed for a career at sea. Depending on your interests, whether you aim to become a navigation officer, marine engineer, or technical specialist, you can choose the course that aligns best with your career goals.
An entrance test must be passed to enrol in a Merchant Navy course. The widening scope of the Merchant Navy is increasing the craze among people to join this field.
The most common entrance exams for Merchant Navy courses are:
Indian Maritime University has published the IMU CET 2025 exam center list online. Candidates can refer to the official brochure for details. The exam will be conducted at 91 test centers nationwide, and applicants must select their preferred center while filling out the IMU CET application form. The admit card will provide complete details about the assigned exam center.
The Merchant Navy entrance exam is a test you must pass before becoming a sailor. It tests your understanding of maths, physics, English, and general knowledge. You must study diligently, practise with previous test papers, and comprehend the exam structure to succeed.
The application process for the Indian Merchant Navy Recruitment 2025 is entirely online. Candidates must complete their applications before the May 2, 2025, deadline. Failure to adhere to this timeline will result in application rejection. Accurate information is mandatory to avoid any discrepancies.
IMU CET 2025 Exam Dates & Schedule
| 30 May or the 3rd week of June 2025 | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Start Date | 7 March 2025 |
| Application Deadline (UG/PG/DNS) | 2 May 2025 (extended to 6 May 2025 by some sources) |
| Admit Card Release | Mid‑May 2025 (from 14–20 May) |
| IMU CET 2025 Exam Date | 24 May 2025 |
| Mock Test Availability | 21 May 2025 |
| Result Announcement | 30 May or 3rd week of June 2025 |
| Counselling Registration Begins | 4 June 2025 onwards |
| First Seat Allotment & Document Verification | 11–21 June 2025 |
| Subsequent Counselling/Seat allotment Rounds | July – August 2025 |
Given below are the provided steps to apply for the Merchant Navy online form 2025:-
Candidates are reminded to exercise diligence while filling out the form as any inaccuracies could lead to complications during the selection process. Here is the official link to learn more and apply: https://www.imu.edu.in/imunew/
Here’s the Step-by-step guide to filling out the Merchant Navy form:
| Organization | Merchant Navy |
| Vacancies | 1800 |
| Post Name | Various |
| Application Start Date | January 10, 2025 |
| Application Last Date | February 10, 2025 |
| Selection Process | Written Test, Personal Counseling, Character Antecedent Verification, Medical Test |
| Salary | Varies based on the position |
| Date of Exam | May 2025 |
| Result Date | 3rd week of June 2025 |
There are four steps in the Merchant Navy Recruitment selection process:
Available Roles & Vacancies:
Eligibility Criteria:
Salary Range (Monthly, Approx.):
Key Dates:
Integrating the Merchant Navy may lead to great global experiences. Merchant Navy Salary in India varies based on the officer’s rank, years of service, and the ship they served on.
Merchant Navy Jobs vary from Marine Engineer Trainees and Deck Cadets to Chief Officers and Chief Engineers who oversee ship maintenance and operations. Other roles include ratings for generalship tasks, culinary staff for onboard hospitality, and Electro-Technical Officers for electrical systems.
Specialized positions, such as Dynamic Placement Officers, ensure precise vessel placement. The training and experience requirements for each position facilitate the efficient operation of maritime trade and transportation in international seas.
The Merchant Navy salary is based on the position, years of service, and type of ship. Nonetheless, the typical initial pay for a Merchant Navy officer in India ranges from ₹4.80 LPA to ₹6 LPA, which translates to ₹40,000 to ₹50,000 monthly.
Below is a table of different ranks and average salaries in the Merchant Navy posts:
| Rank | Average Monthly Salary |
| Deck Cadet | ₹30,000 – ₹70,000 |
| 3rd Officer | ₹1,99,000- ₹3,50,000 |
| 2nd Officer | ₹3,33,000 – ₹4,15,000 |
| Chief Officer | ₹5,40,000 – ₹7,90,000 |
| Captain | ₹6,66,000 – ₹11,65,000 |
In the Merchant Navy, entry-level jobs like deck cadet and trainee marine engineer are usually the first step toward career progression. Higher positions like Second Officer, Chief Engineer, or Master Mariner can be attained with experience and other certificates. In the long run, there are chances to work on bigger ships, focus on specific fields like engineering or navigation, and even advance into shore-based managerial jobs in the shipping industry or marine administration.
| Rank/Role | Salary (INR/Month) |
|---|---|
| GP Rating | ₹25,000 – ₹60,000 |
| Deck Cadet | ₹25,000 – ₹85,000 |
| 3rd Officer | ₹1.5 – ₹2.5 Lakh |
| Chief Officer | ₹4 – ₹6 Lakh |
| Captain | ₹6 – ₹10 Lakh |
Salaries vary depending on the type of company (Indan or foreign), the type of vessel (oil tanker, bulk carrier), and the experience.
GP Rating / Deck Cadet / Engine Cadet: This is where most of the career in the merchant navy begins. After completing pre-sea training or courses like GP Rating (after 10th) or Deck Cadet (after 12th), you join a ship as a trainee or junior crew member. This phase involves gaining practical sea experience.
You can be promoted to junior officer roles after completing the required sea time and clearing certification exams. Responsibilities include navigation, safety checks, engine maintenance, and managing ship equipment.
With more experience and additional certifications, mid-level officers take on higher responsibilities such as voyage planning, engine performance monitoring, and supervising junior staff.
Senior officers handle critical ship operations, crew management, and safety compliance. They act as deputies to the captain and chief engineer.
Captain / Master: The captain is the highest authority on board and is responsible for the safety, navigation, and management of the ship and its crew.
Chief Engineer: The chief engineer oversees the entire engine department and ensures the smooth running of all mechanical and electrical systems.
Many officers advance into shore-based roles such as Marine Surveyors, Port Captain, Shipping Company Manager, and Maritime Trainers or Instructors.
Becoming a part of the merchant navy can be a rewarding career option for individuals who love the sea, travel, and are keen on engineering or navigation. It doesn’t matter whether you choose to work under deck for the engine department or under the bridge for the deck department, the process begins from selecting the correct course from a DG Shipping-approved institute, passing the required entrance exams or interviews, and completing pre-sea training. If you have the right mindset and qualifications and are fit, nothing stops you from being part of a well-paid, exciting, and worldwide-reputed career. Start now, because the sea is calling!
If you’re passionate about the sea and ready for a dynamic international career, the Merchant Navy might be your perfect voyage. Chegg India is here to guide you with resources, career insights, and exam prep support.
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Depending on the rank and post, there are varied age restrictions for entering the Merchant Navy. Typically, marine engineering or deck cadet program applicants must be between 17 and 25.
Within the Merchant Navy, the starting salary ranges from INR 4.80 to 6 LPA, which is equivalent to INR 40,000 to 50,000 per month. A professional merchant marine officer with over a decade of relevant work experience earns an average monthly wage of INR 1.64 lakh.
A comprehensive medical examination is necessary to assess the candidates’ level of fitness and physical health. Those who weigh less than 42 kg and are shorter than 150 cm cannot be admitted. The chest must be sufficiently developed with at least 5 cm of room for expansion. Female candidates may lose 5 cm (2″) of height and gain 3 kg of weight. The weight needs to be in line with the age and height.
Basic knowledge of these topics is essential, as is being up to date on news about ships and the seas. Keep your cool and manage your time well during the exam. You may begin your voyage as a sailor and clear the Merchant Navy Entrance Exam if you study hard and maintain focus.
Yes, given the higher pay, it can be a good career decision. Jobs in this sector provide opportunities for promotion and competitive remuneration. In addition to the pay, several of these jobs offer extra perks.
To join the Merchant Navy, candidates typically need a minimum educational qualification of 10+2 (or equivalent), with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics as compulsory subjects. However, specific requirements may vary depending on the country or institution.
To join the Merchant Navy, follow these steps:
1. Research the different roles available, such as deck officer, engineer, or ratings.
2. Ensure you meet the minimum eligibility requirements, including age (usually 16-18) and medical fitness.
3. Choose a training route: you can go through a maritime college or apply for a cadetship with a shipping company.
4. Complete the required training, which typically includes a Foundation Degree in Maritime Studies or similar qualifications.
5. Obtain necessary certifications, such as STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping) and a Seafarer’s Medical Certificate.
6. Apply for positions with shipping companies, using job boards and recruitment agencies specialising in maritime careers.
7. Gain sea time to progress in your career and consider further training for advancement.
To qualify for the Merchant Navy, you typically need to meet the following requirements:
1. Age: Minimum age of 16-18, depending on the training programme.
2. Education: GCSEs in English, Maths, and Science; A-levels or equivalent qualifications preferred for higher roles.
3. Health: A medical examination to ensure fitness for sea service.
4. Training: Completion of a recognised training programme, such as a cadetship or apprenticeship.
5. Certification: Obtaining necessary seafarer certifications, including STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers).
6. Background Check: Security clearance and background checks may be required.
Specific roles may have additional qualifications and experience requirements.
Merchant Navy salaries in India range from ₹21–31 lakh for entry-level roles, ₹42 lakh to ₹1 crore for experienced officers, and over ₹1 crore for senior positions like captains. Perks often include travel allowances and bonuses.
Joining the Merchant Navy can be competitive and requires meeting specific qualifications, such as passing medical and fitness tests and obtaining relevant certifications. It may not be easy for everyone, but with dedication and proper training, it is achievable.
Authored by, Gagandeep Khokhar
Career Guidance Expert
Gagandeep is a content writer and strategist focused on creating high-performing, SEO-driven content that bridges the gap between learners and institutions. He crafts compelling narratives across blogs, landing pages, and email campaigns to drive engagement and build trust.
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Chegg India does not ask for money to offer any opportunity with the company. We request you to be vigilant before sharing your personal and financial information with any third party. Beware of fraudulent activities claiming affiliation with our company and promising monetary rewards or benefits. Chegg India shall not be responsible for any losses resulting from such activities.
