How to Join Merchant Navy After 12th: Complete Guide on Courses & Eligibility

Introduction

If you’re passionate about the sea, adventure, and global travel, joining the Merchant Navy after 12th could be the perfect career move. The Merchant Navy manages nearly 80% of global trade, transporting goods across continents and powering world commerce. For 12th-grade students, it offers multiple pathways—whether in navigation, engineering, or hospitality—to start a Merchant Navy career and earn early financial independence.

Departments in Merchant Navy After 12th

1. Deck Department

The Deck Department handles navigation, cargo operations, and watchkeeping. Duties include mooring, unmooring, ballasting, and maintaining life-saving appliances like lifeboats and rafts.
Courses required: Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS) or B.Sc. in Nautical Science.

2. Engine Department

This department maintains ship machinery — engines, compressors, generators, boilers, and more. Marine Engineers ensure smooth propulsion and power generation onboard.
Course required: B.Tech in Marine Engineering.

Courses to Join Merchant Navy After 12th (Through IMU-CET)

For students with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM), here are the main Merchant Navy courses recognized by the Indian Maritime University (IMU).

1. To Become a Deck Officer

• B.Sc. in Nautical Science (3 years)
• Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS) (1 year)
  

2. To Become a Marine Engineer

• B.Tech in Marine Engineering (4 years)
  

3. To Join as a Rating (after 10th or 12th)**

• G.P. Rating Course (6 months)
  

4. To Join the Catering Department**

• Certificate Course in Maritime Catering (CCMC) (6 months)
  

Detailed Overview of Merchant Navy Courses After 12th

1. Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS)

A one-year pre-sea training program divided into two semesters. Graduates start as Deck Cadets on merchant vessels.

Eligibility:

• 12th pass with 60% in PCM and 50% in English.
• Age: 17.5–25 years.
• Medical fitness: 6/6 eyesight, no color blindness, DG Shipping-approved medical check-up.
  

2. B.Sc. in Nautical Science

A 3-year degree program for those aspiring to become navigating officers. After completion, cadets can join as trainee deck officers.

Eligibility:

• 12th pass with 60% in PCM and 50% in English (10th & 12th).
• Age: 17.5–25 years.
• Medical fitness: 6/6 vision, no color blindness.
  

3. B.Tech in Marine Engineering

A 4-year degree with theoretical and practical training on “Ship-in-Campus.” It covers marine propulsion, thermodynamics, and automation.

Eligibility:

• 12th pass with 60% in PCM and 50% in English (10th & 12th).
• Age: 17.5–25 years.
• Must meet DG Shipping medical and vision standards.
  

4. General Purpose (G.P.) Rating

A 6-month course open to 10th or 12th pass candidates. After training, you can join either Deck or Engine departments as a trainee.

Eligibility:

• Minimum qualification: 10th or 12th with 40% marks.
• Physically fit and medically cleared by DG Shipping.
  

5. Certificate Course in Maritime Catering (CCMC)

A 6-month course that opens careers in shipboard hospitality—galley staff, cooks, and stewards.

Eligibility:

• 10th or 12th pass with English and a minimum of 40%.
• Medically and physically fit per DG Shipping standards.
  

Selection Process for Merchant Navy Courses After 12th For DNS, B.Sc. Nautical Science & B.Tech Marine Engineering

1. Qualify IMU-CET: Conducted by the Indian Maritime University, it’s the gateway to all major Merchant Navy courses.
2. Clear Sponsorship Test: Many companies conduct sponsorship exams and interviews to ensure onboard training placement.
3. Medical Fitness: A DG Shipping-approved doctor must certify your fitness and eyesight (6/6, no color blindness).
4. Personal Interview & Document Verification.
   

For G.P. Rating and CCMC Courses

• Candidates are shortlisted based on entrance tests or direct interviews.
• Sponsorship or placement guarantees depend on performance and institute reputation.
  

Also Read: Merchant Navy vs Indian Navy vs Coast Guard: Clear Differences, Careers & Facts

IMU-CET Exam and Admission Process

The Indian Maritime University Common Entrance Test (IMU-CET) is mandatory for admission to degree-level Merchant Navy courses.

Eligibility:

• 12th with PCM (60%) and English (50%).
• Age: 17–25 years.
  

Exam Format:

• Multiple-choice questions covering Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, English, and General Aptitude.
  

Admission Process:

1. Register on IMU’s official website.
2. Fill in course preferences and upload documents.
3. Appear for IMU-CET (held twice a year).
4. Attend counseling and secure admission to an IMU-affiliated college.
   

How to Get Guaranteed Sponsorship in Merchant Navy

Getting sponsorship before admission ensures job security after training. Shipping companies like Anglo-Eastern, Fleet Management, and Synergy Group offer sponsorship programs.

Steps to Secure Sponsorship:

1. Apply directly through company websites or authorized training institutes.
2. Appear for sponsorship exams and interviews.
3. Clear medicals under DG Shipping rules.
4. Upon selection, receive a Letter of Sponsorship guaranteeing ship placement after course completion.
   

Pro Tip: Always verify company authenticity on DG Shipping’s website before paying fees.

Life After Training: Career Progression

• Deck Department: Deck Cadet → Third Officer → Second Officer → Chief Officer → Captain.
• Engine Department: Engine Cadet → Fourth Engineer → Third Engineer → Second Engineer → Chief Engineer.
• Catering Department: Steward → Chief Cook → Catering Officer.
  

After sea time and required certificates, promotions are based on experience and competency exams.

Why Choose Merchant Navy After 12th?

1. Early Career Start: Begin earning and traveling right after 12th.
2. Tax Benefits & NRI Status: Sailors often enjoy tax exemptions and NRI privileges.
3. Global Exposure: Work with multinational crews and experience different cultures.
4. High Pay Packages: Even entry-level seafarers earn well compared to shore jobs.
5. Adventure & Lifestyle: A perfect fit for those who love the sea and travel.
   

Common Challenges

• Long durations away from home (6–8 months).
• Strict discipline and continuous exams (CoC, Watchkeeping).
• Adapting to isolation and multinational environments.

Still, for those with determination, the rewards—financially and personally—far outweigh the difficulties.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I join Merchant Navy without PCM?
No, PCM in 12th is mandatory for officer-level courses. Non-PCM students can apply for G.P. Rating or CCMC.

2. Is IMU-CET compulsory?
Yes, for degree courses like B.Sc., DNS, and B.Tech.

3. What is the age limit for Merchant Navy after 12th?
17.5–25 years for most courses.

4. Are Merchant Navy jobs permanent?
Most are contractual but can lead to continuous employment with reputable shipping firms.

5. Do girls join the Merchant Navy?
Absolutely. Women can join as Deck Officers, Engineers, or in hospitality roles.

Joining the Merchant Navy after 12th opens the door to a global career filled with travel, discipline, and opportunity. Whether you dream of navigating vast oceans or managing ship engines, the industry rewards skill, stamina, and determination. With the right course, sponsorship, and mindset, you can build a successful, exciting career at sea—one that’s financially rewarding and personally fulfilling.