Quick Summary
The Merchant Navy offers a wide variety of career opportunities in marine training and studies. Whether you’re a student fresh out of school or a graduate looking to shift careers.
Candidates who are aspiring to make a career in this field must meet the specific eligibility requirements, passing entrance exams and undergoing onboard training to move ahead on a fulfilling career in the merchant navy. Age, educational requirements, physical fitness standards, medical certificates, and other considerations are all considered while determining Merchant Navy eligibility.
Here in this article, we will cover and learn everything about how to join Merchant Navy 2025 and various other considerations.
Merchant Navy is a commercial maritime service that transports merchandise from one location to another. Additionally, more than 90% of goods are transported all over the world 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 to join the Merchant Navy and to join Indian Navy is that the Merchant Navy is a private entity concerned with the transportation of 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 upon the educational qualification. With years of experience and relevant sea time, one can progress in his career. Below states how to join the 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.
For those aiming for officer or engineer positions, completing 12th grade is necessary. 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 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 maritime 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.
The Merchant Navy qualifications and eligibility criteria are explained below:
Candidates aspiring to join the Merchant Navy must have finished either their 10th or 12th-grade education to meet the eligibility criteria. 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. There are a plethora of merchant navy courses after the 12th standard that candidates can opt for at the diploma or undergraduate level.
Choose a suitable course at a maritime institute, such as deck cadet or marine engineering. After training, pass the Merchant Navy exam like IMUCET and interview to become a deck officer or engineer. It’s a fulfilling career and also offers global travel opportunities while working at sea. The list of different courses to get into the Merchant Navy is as follows:
1. Diploma 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 engineering program that focuses on training individuals to become marine engineers.
The Merchant Navy courses fees can vary depending on the institution and duration of the course. Here is a general range:
Courses: Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS), B.Tech in Marine Engineering, Naval Architecture, and more.
Courses: B.Tech in Marine Engineering, B.Sc in Nautical Science, Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS), Electro-Technical Officer (ETO) training.
Courses:
Courses: Graduate Marine Engineering (GME), Diploma in Marine Engineering (DME).
Courses: Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS), B.Tech in Marine Engineering, Graduate Marine Engineering (GME), Electro-Technical Officer (ETO).
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 list of IMU CET 2025 exam centers 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 areas like maths, physics, English, and general knowledge. To succeed, you must study diligently, practise with previous test papers, and comprehend the exam structure.
The application process for the Indian Merchant Navy Recruitment 2025 is entirely online. Candidates must complete their applications before the deadline on May 2, 2025. Failure to adhere to this timeline will result in application rejection. It is mandatory to provide accurate information to avoid any discrepancies.
IMU CET 2024 Exam Dates & Schedule
| IMU CET 2025 Registration Open | March 10, 2025 |
| Last Date of Registration | May 2, 2025 |
| IMU CET 2025 Admit Card Release Date | May 2025 |
| IMU CET 2025 Exam Date | May 24, 2025 |
| IMU CET 2025 Result Announcement | Second week of June 2025 |
Given below are the provided steps to apply for 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:
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 particular 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 and ₹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 certain fields like engineering or navigation, and even advance into shore-based managerial jobs in the shipping industry or marine administration.
GP Rating / Deck Cadet / Engine Cadet: This is where most of the career in a 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.
After completing the required sea time and clearing certification exams, you can be promoted to junior officer roles. 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 overall safety, navigation, and management of the ship and its crew.
Chief Engineer: The chief engineer oversees the entire engine department, ensuring 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, qualifications, and you are fit, there is nothing stopping you from being part of a well-paid, exciting, and worldwide reputed career. Start now, because the sea is calling!
Depending on the rank and post, there are varied age restrictions for entering the Merchant Navy. Typically, applicants to marine engineering or deck cadet programmes must be between the ages of 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.
To assess the candidates’ level of fitness and physical health, a comprehensive medical examination is necessary. Those who weigh less than 42 kg and are shorter than 150 cm cannot be admitted. The chest must be sufficiently developed with a minimum of 5 cm of room for expansion. Female candidates may opt to 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. Opportunities for promotion and competitive remuneration are provided by jobs in this sector. 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.
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Authored by, Amay Mathur | Senior Editor
Amay Mathur is a business news reporter at Chegg.com. He previously worked for PCMag, Business Insider, The Messenger, and ZDNET as a reporter and copyeditor. His areas of coverage encompass tech, business, strategy, finance, and even space. He is a Columbia University graduate.
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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.
