How to Prepare for G.P. Rating Exam: Complete Guide with Tips, Notes & Sample Tests
“Learn how to prepare for G.P. Rating exam with study tips, syllabus, notes & sample test links for success.”
chief officer Satish
September 27, 2025
6 min read
Table of Contents
1. Introduction
The G.P. Rating exam preparation is one of the most crucial steps for anyone aiming to join the merchant navy as a Deck or Engine Rating. While the course duration is only six months, the final exam conducted by the Board of Examiners for Seafarers (BES) under DG Shipping decides your eligibility for onboard training and receiving your Indian CDC.
This blog is a practical guide on how to prepare for G.P. Rating exam effectively. From understanding the syllabus to mastering tools and practicing sample tests, we’ll walk through every step you need to clear the exam with confidence.
2. What is G.P. Rating Course?
The General Purpose (G.P.) Rating course is a six-month residential training program for 10th-pass students. During the course, candidates receive pre-sea training in swimming, physical drills, rope and mast climbing, firefighting exercises, ship visits, and more.
After training, you must appear for the G.P. Rating exam. Once cleared, you are issued an Indian CDC and eligible for onboard training. Success in this exam is therefore the gateway to your merchant navy career.
3. Why the Final G.P. Rating Exam Matters
Clearing the exam ensures:
You are eligible for onboard training contracts.
You meet the merchant navy competency standards.
You build credibility with shipping companies.
You gain practical knowledge that will actually be used at sea.
Without passing this exam, candidates cannot move forward to real sea experience. That’s why G.P. Rating exam preparation deserves early focus.
4. Tips for Effective G.P. Rating Exam Preparation
4.1 Be Attentive During Pre-Sea Training
Your training period covers everything from drills to shipboard operations. Pay attention in classes and practical sessions — these directly reflect in exam questions.
4.2 Learn About Ship Equipment
Make notes on different types of equipment used onboard. Familiarity with tools, machinery, and safety gear not only helps in exams but also boosts confidence once you join a vessel.
4.3 Do Independent Research
Don’t rely only on classroom notes. Read maritime blogs, watch videos, and follow merchant navy updates. Independent learning keeps you ahead of your peers.
4.4 Focus on Maritime Geography
Memorize sea routes, major ports, and oceanic trade patterns. These are frequent exam topics and also vital knowledge for seafarers.
4.5 Practice Past Question Papers
Going through old papers helps identify frequently asked questions and exam patterns. This is one of the best ways to reduce surprises in the exam.
4.6 Study LSAs and FFAs
Life-Saving Appliances (LSAs) and Fire-Fighting Appliances (FFAs) are central to ship safety. Expect detailed questions on their use, maintenance, and handling.
4.7 Understand Tools and Rope Work
Basic carpentry tools, plumbing instruments, and electrical equipment are part of your syllabus. Rope work — knots, rigging, and splicing — is another core skill tested.
4.8 Brush Up Your English Vocabulary
The merchant navy is global. English is the working language, so better vocabulary helps in exams and during shipboard communication with multinational crews.
4.9 Prepare Self-Made Notes
Condensed notes in your own words simplify last-minute revision. This practice makes learning active and easier to recall under exam stress.
4.10 Learn the Duties of Deck and Engine Ratings
Understand the roles you’ll actually perform onboard. Questions may test your awareness of daily responsibilities, from maintenance to safety checks.
5. G.P. Rating Syllabus Explained
The G.P. Rating syllabus includes:
Ship routines and operations
Marine legislation basics
Safety, accident prevention, and pollution control
Firefighting and first aid principles
Ship compass and steering theory
Engineering maintenance and safe practices
Tools, equipment, and instruments used onboard
Handling ropes, blocks, tackles, and rigging
Lifeboat handling and engine starting
Practical workshop training in carpentry, plumbing, electrical, diesel maintenance, and hot work
Knowing this syllabus early helps structure your G.P. Rating exam preparation effectively.
6. Importance of G.P. Rating Exam Notes
Many institutes and academies provide consolidated notes. A 58-page PDF covering 16 chapters, for instance, is often recommended. These G.P. Rating exam notes summarize concepts in tables, charts, and graphics — perfect for quick revision.
Self-prepared notes combined with such PDFs create a powerful study package.
7. G.P. Rating Sample Tests and Practice Links
After studying, test yourself with mock papers. Sample tests help simulate the exam environment and highlight weak areas. Useful resources include:
Sample G.P. Rating test by Asha Marine College
BES (Board of Examiners for Seafarers) official sample test
Attempting multiple G.P. Rating sample tests sharpens accuracy and time management.
8. Preparation Timeline and Strategy
Here’s a suggested timeline for G.P. Rating exam preparation:
Months 1–2: Focus on basics — ship routines, tools, and safety practices.
Months 3–4: Deep dive into LSAs, FFAs, and maritime geography. Create self-notes.
Months 5–6: Revise using PDFs, practice past papers, and take sample tests.
Daily short study sessions (1–2 hours) plus regular practice drills keep the momentum strong.
Memorizing without understanding practical applications
Leaving geography and port names until the last minute
Not practicing enough past papers
Overlooking physical drills and rope work
Avoiding these mistakes makes your G.P. Rating exam preparation is more effective.
10. Final Tips for Success
Stay consistent during the six-month course — don’t cram at the end.
Balance theory and practical learning.
Discuss topics with peers to reinforce memory.
Use visual aids like diagrams and charts.
Simulate exam conditions while practicing sample papers.
11 Conclusion
The G.P. Rating exam preparation journey requires discipline, smart study, and active participation in pre-sea training. With the right mix of notes, sample tests, and practical focus, you’ll be well-prepared to clear the exam.
Remember: clearing the exam is not just about passing a test — it’s about proving you are ready for the real responsibilities at sea. Master the G.P. Rating syllabus, revise with G.P. Rating exam notes, and practice with G.P. Rating sample tests. Success in this exam is your stepping stone to a rewarding career in the merchant navy.
