How to Join Merchant Navy After 12th: Step-by-Step Guide (As per DG Shipping & IMU Guidelines)
Are you dreaming of a career filled with adventure, travel, and good salary at sea? The Merchant Navy offers just that — a life of discipline, teamwork, and global exposure. join merchant navy after 12th If you’re a student who has just completed 12th (Science stream) with Pcm 60% above marks and wish to sail across oceans, this guide will help you understand how to join the Merchant Navy in India as per DG Shipping and IMU (Indian Maritime University) guidelines
Step 1: Understand What the Merchant Navy Is
How to join merchant navy after 12th The Merchant Navy is not a defense service; it is a commercial fleet responsible for transporting goods and passengers across the world. It offers various career paths — Deck Officer, Marine Engineer, Electro-Technical Officer (ETO), and Crew (GP Rating), CCMC.
Step 2: Choose the Right Course After 12th
After completing 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM), you have several options depending on your interest and eligibility
1. B.Tech Marine Engineering
Duration:- 4 years
Eligibility: 10+2 with PCM and at least 60% marks, and minimum 50% in English (10th or 12th).
Career Path:- Become a Marine Engineer after onboard training.
College Approved by:- DG Shipping
2. B.Sc Nautical Science / Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS).
Duration:- 3 years (B.Sc) / 1 year (DNS) + sea training
Eligibility:- 10+2 (PCM) with 60% marks and 50% in English./In case Dns depending upon your company eligible criteria.
Career Path: Become a (Deck Officer), and later rise to the rank of (Captain).
3. Electro-Technical Officer (ETO) Course.
Duration:- 4 Months
Eligibility:- Diploma or Degree in Electrical/Electronics/Telecommunication Engineering.
Career Path:- Manage electrical systems and automation onboard ships.
4. GP Rating Course
Duration:- 6 months
Eligibility:- 10th with 40% aggregate and 40% in English.(ITI student are applicable)
Career Path:- Entry-level deck or engine crew (supporting officers).
Step 3: Apply Through DG Shipping Approved Institutes (IMU)
Always choose a DG Shipping-approved institute & IMU . You can check the updated list at the official DG Shipping website:
[www.dgshipping.gov.in](https://www.imu.edu.in/imunew/index/home)
Some top maritime institutes include:
1. Tolani Maritime Institute, Pune
2. Maharashtra Academy Naval Education and Training Pune
3. International Maritime Institute Greater Noida
4. Anglo-Eastern Maritime Academy, Karjat
5. IMU Campuses (Chennai, Mumbai, Kolkata, Kochi, Vizag)
6. Samundra Institute of Maritime Studies Pune
7. Great Eastern Institute of Maritime Studies
Step 4: Appear for the IMU-CET Exam
To get admission into IMU & IMU-affiliated colleges, you must clear the IMU Common Entrance Test (IMU-CET).
Note- Appear for Jee Mains Student are also Applicable.
IMU-CET Details:
Eligibility:- 10+2 (PCM)
Subjects Covered:- Physics, Chemistry, Maths, English, and General Aptitude.
Application:- Apply online via [www.imu.edu.in](https://www.imu.edu.in)
🩺 Step 5: Complete Medical Fitness Test by DG approved Doctor.
Every candidate must be (medically fit) as per DG Shipping standards. The test ensures good eyesight (6/6 vision), color vision, hearing, and general health.
Approved medical examiners’ list is available on the DG Shipping website.
Step 6: Get a Sponsorship (DNS & GME)
Many shipping companies offer sponsorship programs before joining college. A sponsored candidate is guaranteed a ship placement after course completion.
Popular sponsoring companies:
1. Anglo-Eastern Ship Management
2. Great Eastern Shipping Company
3. Fleet Management
4. Synergy Maritime
5. MSC
Step 7: Start Sea Training and Career Growth
After completing your course, you’ll start your sea training (6 to 18 months).
Deck cadets → Third Officer → Second Officer → Chief Officer → Captain
Engine Cadet → Fourth Engineer → Third → Second → Chief Engineer
ETO – Traine eto – Junior eto – ETO
Benefits of Joining the Merchant Navy
Tax-free international salary
Global travel and adventure
Long vacations after contract
Respectful and disciplined lifestyle
Important Tips
Choose only DG Shipping, Indian Maritime University (IMU)-approved, institutes
Don’t fall for fake agents promising guaranteed jobs
Maintain good physical fitness and English communication skills
Keep checking IMU and DG Shipping websites for latest updates
Final Thoughts
Joining the Merchant Navy after 12th & is one of the best career options for youngster who love the sea. With the right education, discipline, and determination, leadership quality, you can build a rewarding international career — all while exploring the world.
You also check out the how to join merchant navy after 10th
Author:- Fleet Frontier
Website:- https://fleetfrontier.in/
Category:- Career Guidance | Merchant Navy | IMU & DG Shipping Updates