Table of content:

How to Join the Merchant Navy: Eligibility, Courses & Salary (2025)

The Merchant Navy offers a dynamic and adventurous career path for those who dream of life at sea, global travel, and lucrative pay. Whether you're a student fresh out of school or a graduate looking to shift careers, this article explains everything you need to know about joining the Merchant Navy in India.

What is the Merchant Navy?

The Merchant Navy is a civilian fleet that transports cargo and passengers across sea routes, playing a vital role in global trade. Unlike the military navy, it is not a defense force but supports international commerce by operating vessels like container ships, oil tankers, and passenger liners. Professionals in this sector work for private companies under strict safety regulations.

Why Choose the Merchant Navy?

High Salary Packages
Travel the World
Tax-free Income (for NRI status)
Quick Promotions
Job Security and Perks

Is Merchant Navy a Government Job?

No, it's not a government job. The Merchant Navy is operated by private shipping companies, although it is regulated by the Directorate General (DG) of Shipping in India and international maritime laws for safety and compliance.

Eligibility Criteria to Join Merchant Navy

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

Joining the Merchant Navy After 10th or 12th Grade

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.

How to Join the Merchant Navy in India?

To join the Merchant Navy in India, there are a few steps you need to follow:

Complete 10 or 10+2 education with physics, chemistry, and mathematics as core subjects.
Appear for entrance exams like IMUCET (Indian Maritime University Common Entrance Test Rank) and All India Merchant Navy Entrance Test (AIMNET), or seek sponsorships from shipping companies.
Before joining the Merchant Navy, clearing medical examinations conducted by approved doctors is mandatory. These tests ensure you meet the physical fitness requirements for working at sea.

Key Institutes in India for Maritime Courses

Delhi Maritime Academy, New Delhi

Courses: Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS), B.Tech in Marine Engineering, Naval Architecture, and more.

Tolani Maritime Institute, Pune

Courses: B.Tech in Marine Engineering, B.Sc in Nautical Science, Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS), Electro-Technical Officer (ETO) training.

Institute of Maritime Studies, Goa

Courses: Graduate Marine Engineering (GME), Diploma in Marine Engineering (DME).

Samundra Institute of Maritime Studies, Lonavala

Courses: Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS), B.Tech in Marine Engineering, Graduate Marine Engineering (GME), Electro-Technical Officer (ETO).

Anglo Eastern Maritime Academy, Karjat

Courses: Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS), Graduate Marine Engineering (GME), Electro-Technical Officer (ETO).

Skills Required to Join the Merchant Navy

Certain skills are essential to be eligible for a career in the Merchant Navy. Here are the key abilities that aspiring candidates should possess:

Strong communication skills: Effective communication is crucial when working with diverse crew members onboard ships. The ability to convey information clearly and understand others' instructions ensures smooth operations and fosters teamwork.

Problem-solving abilities: Voyage journeys can present unexpected situations, and thinking quickly and finding solutions is vital. Candidates with good problem-solving skills can handle challenges efficiently, ensuring the safety and efficiency of the ship.

Leadership qualities: Strong leadership skills are invaluable in times of emergency or when leading a team. Those who can take charge, make decisions under pressure, and guide others effectively contribute to a well-functioning crew.

What is the Salary Package of a Merchant Navy?

Salaries in the Merchant Navy are influenced by factors such as rank, experience, and the specific type of vessel. In India, a newly appointed Merchant Navy officer can expect an average initial salary ranging from ₹4.80 LPA to ₹6 LPA, translating to a monthly income of approximately ₹40,000 to ₹50,000.

Here is a table of the average monthly salaries for different ranks in the Merchant Navy:

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

Career Path in the Merchant Navy

Entry-Level Positions

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.

Junior Officer Roles

Third Officer (Deck Department)
Fourth Engineer (Engine Department)
Electro-Technical Officer (ETO)

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.

Mid-Level Officer Roles

Second Officer (Deck Department)
Third Engineer (Engine Department)

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 Officer Roles

Chief Officer / First Mate (Deck Department)
Second Engineer (Engine Department)

Senior officers handle critical ship operations, crew management, and safety compliance. They act as deputies to the captain and chief engineer.

Top-Level Positions

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.

Further Career Growth

Many officers advance into shore-based roles such as Marine Surveyors, Port Captain, Shipping Company Manager, and Maritime Trainers or Instructors.

Conclusion

If you are considering joining the Merchant Navy, it is important to thoroughly research and understand the Merchant Navy eligibility and qualifications for your desired role. Remember that pursuing a career in the Merchant Navy requires dedication, hard work, and a passion for maritime life.

If you meet the necessary criteria and are willing to commit yourself to this challenging yet rewarding profession, then go ahead and explore the opportunities available in this field.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the educational requirements to join the Merchant Navy?

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.

2. Are there any age restrictions for joining the Merchant Navy?

The age limit for joining the Merchant Navy varies based on different ranks and positions. Generally, candidates must be between 17-25 years old at the time of admission for deck cadet or marine engineering programs.

3. What medical fitness requirements should I meet?

Medical fitness is crucial in the maritime industry due to its physically demanding nature. Candidates must undergo medical examinations conducted by approved doctors or clinics recognized by maritime authorities to ensure they meet specific health standards.

4. Can I join the Merchant Navy after completing my graduation?

Yes! After graduation from relevant disciplines such as Nautical Science or Marine Engineering, you can join the Merchant Navy as a higher-ranking officer. Additional training and certifications may be required depending on the position.

5. What are the career growth prospects in the Merchant Navy?

The Merchant Navy offers excellent career growth opportunities, with chances to progress to higher ranks and positions over time. With experience and additional qualifications, individuals can become ship captains and chief engineers or pursue shore-based managerial roles within the maritime industry.