Degree Course Type 

Others

Entry Level Qualification 

Class 10+2

Degree Course Duration 

4 Year

Course Fields 

Other

Degree Course Entrance Exam 

JEE ADVANCED

Average Course Fee 

100000 - 500000

Average Salary Offered 

350000 - 850000

Course Details 

Course Highlights 

Quick Facts about the Merchant Navy

1. The job of a Merchant Navy officer is good for both men and women. 

2. It used to be a job only for men, but now women can also do it. 

3. It is fair for everyone now. However, if someone has a disability, they cannot do this job. 

4. This job needs someone very strong and healthy both mentally and physically. 

5. The person must have good eyesight and must be able to do difficult tasks every day. 

6. A Merchant Navy officer must spend many months on a ship in the sea. So, it is very important to be healthy and strong.

7. Someone with a disability cannot do this job.

About Course 

Merchant Navy Course Overview

Merchant Navy is a shipping sector and is in charge of transporting freight and passengers along marine routes. Candidates can pursue Merchant Navy courses after completing their Class 10+2 and apply for bachelor's degrees like B Tech marine, B Tech naval architecture, ocean engineering, BBA in shipping, etc. Candidates also pursue Pre-sea Nautical diploma courses after Class 10th. Merchant Navy Admission is done based on merit basis via entrance exams like IMU CET, JEE Main, TMI-BITS-EE, etc. 

By pursuing this course you can find Merchant Navy job opportunities in companies like the Shipping Corporation of India, Great Eastern Shipping and Essar, Chowgule Shipping, etc. The merchant navy courses are available in offline and offline modes. Some of the top merchant navy colleges in India are Tolani Maritime Institute, Samundra Institute of Maritime Studies, Vels Academy of Maritime Studies, etc. The average starting Merchant Navy salary at the officers level in India ranges from INR 7,50,000 - INR 9,50,000 Per Annum. Regardless, with incremental experience and modernized skills along with appropriate knowledge, the Merchant Navy Salary after 5 years can go up to as much as INR 37,00,000 Per Annum for a senior officer and above INR 2,00,00,000 for Chief Engineers. 

Why Choose Course And Required Skills 

In today's world, there is a growing demand for Merchant Navy officers. Countries are interfacing with overseas trade in the globalization period, which is largely carried out by shipping corporations. Pursuing a Merchant Navy degree would provide you with several job prospects both in India and overseas. Check the perks of choosing a merchant navy degree given below. 
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Earn Handsome Salary

The merchant navy is not a career for everyone and requires dedication. Therefore, professionals who studied the merchant navy course and became merchant navy officers earn a lucrative salary. An experienced merchant navy officer can earn up to 37 LPA and in addition also get various tax benefits. 

In-Demand Profession 

Becoming a merchant navy is a very unconventional choice and not everyone studies this course and rather goes after engineering and medicine. Therefore, this field has various career opportunities available that you can take benefit of by studying this course. 

Opportunity to Travel the World

The job profile of the merchant navy includes traveling across the globe. So, if you are someone who wants to experience the world, visit various countries, and explore different cultures and cuisines then the merchant navy is the career for you. 

Get Job Security

As a merchant navy officer, you will be in charge of exporting and importing goods from various countries' borders which ultimately contribute to global trade and country development. Since global trade is an ongoing activity, there is always a need for qualified experts in the merchant marine. Job stability is generally good in this industry, and prospects for advancement are available. 

Contributing to Global Trade

By moving commodities and resources across the world's oceans, the merchant navy plays an important role in promoting global trade. By pursuing a profession in this sector, you become an important component of the global economy, helping to transport commodities and resources that support industries and communities.

Eligibility  

Candidates with a strong passion for marine experiences and a desire to participate in several sea voyages should pursue this career. You mustn't get seasick because you will go on long sea voyages as a naval merchant officer. It is a fantastic job option in today's world. In addition, you must meet the Merchant Navy qualifying conditions and be physically fit. 

Check the Merchant Navy eligibility criteria given below:

Entrance Exams Details 

There are numerous entrance exams for Merchant Navy courses available in India. To get admission to a top Merchant Navy college in India, candidates are required to pass the entrance exam of that particular college. The basic eligibility requirement for these Merchant Navy entrance exams, you need to pass Class 10+ 12 from a recognized institution with a minimum of 50% marks. 

Check the list of popular merchant navy entrance exams given below. 

Degree Course Syllabus 

Merchant Navy Subject and Syllabus

Candidates pursuing the Merchant Navy course need to have a good understanding related to a wide range of subjects. The merchant navy sub & syllabus that are covered in the Merchant Navy programs are as follows:

1. Naval Architecture

2. Ship Operation Technology

3. Marine Machines and System Design

4. Mechanics of Fluids

5. Marine Boiler and System Engineering

6. Maritime Law

7. Voyage Planning and Collision Prevention

8. Electrical Machines

9. Environmental Science

10. Marine Electrical Technology

11. Nautical Physics and Electronics Paper

12. STCW and Ship Fire Prevention

13. Marine IC Engineering

14. Shipping Management

15. Cargo Machine and Marine Communication

16. Marine Auxiliary Machine

17. Principles of Navigation

18. Marine Heat Engines and Air Conditioning

Merchant Navy Training

After completing the respective programmes in the merchant navy, all candidates must undergo pre-sea training conducted by the Maritime Training Institute. Be it marine engineering or simply a maritime catering programme, all candidates have to undergo this training before they start working as interns on the ship. The duration of the training can vary from six months to one year depending on the programme that the candidate has pursued.

Top Colleges 

Merchant Navy colleges are located throughout the country and are designed to provide training to those interested in joining this non-combatant commercial force. The Directorate of Shipping has accredited these colleges, and the Ministry of Surface Transport of the Government of India has approved them for personnel training. 

These colleges offer merchant navy courses in diploma, UG, and PG level. 

1. Indian Maritime University (IMU)

Location: Chennai, Tamil Nadu (with regional campuses across India)

Overview: IMU is the premier institution for maritime education and training in India. It offers various undergraduate, postgraduate, and diploma programs in nautical science, marine engineering, and maritime management.

2. National Institute of Technology (NIT)

Location: Various campuses across India

Overview: Some NITs offer specialized programs related to marine engineering. For instance, NIT Surathkal is well-regarded for its engineering programs.

3. T.S. Chanakya

Location: Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra

Overview: T.S. Chanakya is a premier maritime training institute in India, offering undergraduate and postgraduate programs in nautical science and marine engineering.

4. Vels Institute of Science, Technology & Advanced Studies (VISTAS)

Location: Chennai, Tamil Nadu

Overview: VISTAS offers undergraduate programs in Marine Engineering and Nautical Science.

5. Lloyd’s Maritime Academy

Location: Mumbai, Maharashtra

Overview: Lloyd’s offers a range of maritime courses, including certifications and diplomas, focusing on various aspects of maritime industry.

6. Samundra Institute of Maritime Studies

Location: Mumbai, Maharashtra

Overview: Samundra Institute provides training in marine engineering, nautical science, and other maritime disciplines.

7. SBI Marine Academy

Location: Mumbai, Maharashtra

Overview: Offers courses in marine engineering and nautical science.

8. Maharashtra Academy of Naval Education and Training (MANET)

Location: Pune, Maharashtra

Overview: MANET offers undergraduate and postgraduate courses in marine engineering and nautical science.

9. Bharati Vidyapeeth College of Engineering

Location: Pune, Maharashtra

Overview: Offers a B.E. in Marine Engineering, providing education in both engineering and nautical sciences.

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10. C.M.E. Marine Engineering College

Location: Kolkata, West Bengal

Overview: Offers marine engineering courses aimed at preparing students for a career in the Merchant Navy.

11. Haldia Institute of Maritime Studies and Research (HIMSR)

Location: Haldia, West Bengal

Overview: Provides courses in marine engineering and nautical science.

Course Fees 

The course fees for Merchant Navy colleges in India can vary widely depending on the institution, program, and facilities offered. Here's a general overview of the fee structures for different types of programs:

1. Indian Maritime University (IMU)

Undergraduate Programs (B.Sc. Nautical Science / B.Tech. Marine Engineering): Rs. 2.5 to Rs. 4 lakhs per year.

Postgraduate Programs: ​​​​​​​Rs. 1.5 to Rs. 2.5 lakhs per year.

Diploma Programs: Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 1 lakh per year.

​​​​​​​2. T.S. Chanakya

B.E. Nautical Science: Approximately Rs. 2.5 to Rs. 4 lakhs per year.

B.E. Marine Engineering: Around Rs. 2.5 to Rs. 4 lakhs per year.

Postgraduate Programs: Fees vary, generally in the range of Rs. 1 to Rs. 2 lakhs per year.

3. Vels Institute of Science, Technology & Advanced Studies (VISTAS)

B.Sc. Nautical Science: Approximately Rs. 2.5 to Rs. 3 lakhs per year.

B.E. Marine Engineering: Around Rs. 2.5 to Rs. 3 lakhs per year.

4. Lloyd’s Maritime Academy

Diploma and Certification Courses: Fees generally range from Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 1.5 lakhs, depending on the specific course and duration.

5. Samundra Institute of Maritime Studies

B.E. Marine Engineering: Approximately Rs. 3 to Rs. 4 lakhs per year.

B.Sc. Nautical Science: Around Rs. 2.5 to Rs. 3 lakhs per year.

6. SBI Marine Academy

B.E. Marine Engineering: Around Rs. 3 to Rs. 4 lakhs per year.

B.Sc. Nautical Science: Approximately Rs. 2.5 to Rs. 3 lakhs per year.

7. Maharashtra Academy of Naval Education and Training (MANET)

B.E. Marine Engineering: Approximately Rs. 3 to Rs. 4 lakhs per year.

B.Sc. Nautical Science: Around Rs. 2.5 to Rs. 3 lakhs per year.

8. Bharati Vidyapeeth College of Engineering

B.E. Marine Engineering: Approximately Rs. 3 to Rs. 4 lakhs per year.

9. C.M.E. Marine Engineering College

B.E. Marine Engineering: Fees are around Rs. 3 to Rs. 4 lakhs per year.

10. Haldia Institute of Maritime Studies and Research (HIMSR)

B.E. Marine Engineering: Approximately Rs. 3 to Rs. 4 lakhs per year.

B.Sc. Nautical Science: Around Rs. 2.5 to Rs. 3 lakhs per year.

Note: These fees are approximate and can vary based on additional costs such as uniforms, training materials, examination fees, and other miscellaneous expenses. It's always a good idea to check the latest fee structure directly from the college or institution you are interested in, as fees can be updated or modified.

Top Recruiters And Salary 

Graduates of Merchant Navy courses in India can look forward to employment opportunities with various prestigious shipping companies, maritime organizations, and related sectors. Here are some of the top recruiters and employers for Merchant Navy graduates:

1. Shipping Corporations of India Ltd. (SCI)

Overview: SCI is one of the largest shipping companies in India and offers opportunities for marine engineers, deck officers, and other maritime professionals.

2. Essar Shipping Ltd.

Overview: A part of the Essar Group, this company operates a fleet of ships and provides careers in various maritime roles.

3. Great Eastern Shipping Co. Ltd.

Overview: Great Eastern Shipping is one of India's largest private shipping companies, offering diverse roles for Merchant Navy graduates.

4. Gulf Oil Marine Ltd.

Overview: Part of the Gulf Oil International group, this company provides marine services and employs maritime professionals.

5. MSA Marine Pvt. Ltd.

Overview: A prominent maritime company providing shipping and marine services, with opportunities for various roles in the industry.

6. Bernhard Schulte Shipmanagement (BSM)

Overview: BSM is a global ship management company offering employment in technical and operational roles within the maritime sector.

7. Wilhelmsen Ship Management

Overview: Wilhelmsen provides comprehensive ship management services and recruits maritime professionals for various positions.

8. Dredging Corporation of India Ltd.

Overview: Specializes in dredging and maritime infrastructure projects, offering roles for engineers and other maritime experts.

9. Adani Ports and SEZ Ltd.

Overview: Adani Ports operates major ports and logistics facilities and offers career opportunities in port management and operations.

10. SICAL Logistics Ltd.

Overview: Provides integrated logistics and port services, employing professionals in various maritime and logistical roles.

11. Maersk Line

Overview: A global leader in container shipping, Maersk offers numerous career opportunities in maritime operations and management.

12. MSC (Mediterranean Shipping Company)

Overview: One of the largest container shipping companies in the world, MSC recruits maritime professionals for various roles.

13. Hanjin Shipping Co. Ltd.

Overview: A major international shipping company providing career opportunities in various maritime sectors.

14. NYK Line (Nippon Yusen Kaisha)

Overview: A leading global shipping company with opportunities for maritime professionals across various roles.

15. P&O Maritime Services

Overview: Provides maritime services globally and employs maritime professionals for various positions.

16. VShips

Overview: A global provider of ship management services, VShips offers diverse roles in the maritime industry.

17. Anglo-Eastern Ship Management

Overview: A prominent ship management company with a global presence, providing career opportunities for maritime professionals.

These companies and organizations offer a range of roles in the Merchant Navy and related sectors, including positions for deck officers, marine engineers, and other specialized roles. Opportunities can be found in shipping, ship management, marine engineering, logistics, and port operations.

Salary of Merchant Navy professionals

The salary for Merchant Navy professionals in India varies depending on their rank, experience, and the employer. Here’s a general overview of what you can expect to earn at different stages of a Merchant Navy career:
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1. Cadet/Junior Officer (Deck Cadet or Engine Cadet)

Starting Salary: Rs. 30,000 to Rs. 60,000 per month

Overview: As a cadet, you will undergo on-the-job training. The salary can increase with experience and as you move to higher ranks.

2. Third Officer / Third Engineer

Salary Range: Rs.60,000 to Rs.90,000 per month

Overview: These are entry-level officer positions where you gain significant responsibilities onboard. Salaries can vary based on the shipping company and the type of vessel.

3. Second Officer / Second Engineer

Salary Range: Rs.1 lakh to Rs.1.5 lakhs per month

Overview: With more experience and responsibilities, salaries increase. The Second Officer or Second Engineer role is a step towards higher ranks.

4. Chief Officer / Chief Engineer

Salary Range: Rs.1.5 lakhs to Rs.3 lakhs per month

Overview: These senior positions come with significant responsibilities and higher pay. Chief Officers are responsible for the ship's operations, while Chief Engineers manage engineering functions.

5. Captain / Chief Engineer (Master Mariner)

Salary Range: Rs.3 lakhs to Rs.6 lakhs per month

Overview: As the highest-ranking officer on a ship, the Captain or Chief Engineer commands the vessel or manages all engineering functions. The salary reflects the extensive experience and responsibility required.

6. Specialized Roles (e.g., Maritime Consultant, Superintendent)

Salary Range: Rs.2 lakhs to Rs.5 lakhs per month

Overview: Professionals in specialized roles or working shore-side, such as maritime consultants or ship superintendents, can earn competitive salaries.

Additional Factors Affecting Salary:

Experience: Salaries increase with years of experience and promotions to higher ranks.

Type of Vessel: Salaries can vary depending on whether you are working on cargo ships, tankers, passenger ships, or specialized vessels.

Company: Pay scales differ among shipping companies, with larger or international companies often offering higher salaries.

Contracts: Pay is also affected by the length of contracts and onboard/offshore periods.

Course Scope And Career Options 

A career in the Merchant Navy offers a wide range of opportunities and career paths, both at sea and on land. Here’s a detailed look at the scope and career prospects after completing a Merchant Navy course:

1. Career at Sea

Deck Department:

Deck Cadet: Entry-level position with responsibilities such as navigation, cargo operations, and safety drills.

Third Officer: Oversees navigation, safety equipment, and watchkeeping.

Second Officer: Responsible for navigation, watchkeeping, and managing cargo operations.

Chief Officer (First Mate): Manages the deck department, oversees cargo operations, and ensures the ship's safety and security.

Captain (Master Mariner): Highest rank, responsible for the overall command of the ship, including navigation, safety, and crew management.

​​​​​​​Engine Department:

Engine Cadet: Entry-level role focusing on engine operations, maintenance, and repair.

Third Engineer: Assists in the operation and maintenance of the ship’s engine and machinery.

Second Engineer: Oversees engine operations and maintenance, manages engineering staff.

Chief Engineer: Manages the engine room, ensures the proper functioning of all machinery, and oversees the engineering team.

Electro-Technical Department:

Electrical Officer: Handles the maintenance and repair of electrical systems and equipment on board.

2. Career on Shore

Ship Management and Operations:

Ship Manager: Manages the operations of vessels, including scheduling, maintenance, and compliance with regulations.

Port Manager: Oversees the operations and logistics of port facilities.

Maritime Consultancy:

Maritime Consultant: Provides expertise on shipping regulations, logistics, and maritime laws.

Marine Surveying:

Marine Surveyor: Inspects and assesses ships for compliance with safety regulations and insurance requirements.

Logistics and Supply Chain Management:

Logistics Manager: Manages the logistics of transporting goods, coordinating between shipping companies, and ensuring timely delivery.

3. Specialized Careers

Maritime Education and Training:

Instructor: Teaches maritime courses at maritime academies and training centers.

Insurance and Risk Management:

Marine Insurance Specialist: Assesses risks and manages insurance claims related to maritime activities.

Regulatory and Compliance Roles:

Regulatory Affairs Specialist: Ensures compliance with maritime laws and international regulations.

4. Further Education and Career Development

Advanced Courses: Pursue additional certifications or specialized training, such as advanced marine engineering or navigation courses.

Management and Administrative Roles: Transition into roles such as Fleet Manager, Maritime Administrator, or Maritime Policy Maker.

Higher Studies: Pursue postgraduate degrees in maritime studies, business management, or logistics for broader career opportunities.

5. Entrepreneurship

Shipping Business: Start your own shipping or logistics company.

Maritime Services: Offer specialized services such as maritime consultancy, surveying, or training.

6. International Opportunities

Global Shipping Companies: Work with international shipping companies and explore opportunities abroad.

International Ports and Facilities: Engage with ports and maritime facilities globally.

Summary: A career in the Merchant Navy provides diverse opportunities, ranging from various roles at sea to positions in maritime operations, consultancy, education, and management on land. The career path you choose can depend on your interests, specialization, and career goals, with potential for growth and advancement in the maritime industry.

Admission Process 

After passing class 10 exams and finishing a Pre-sea Nautical diploma program, candidates can join any company associated with the merchant navy. If you complete your basic bachelor's degree or course in Merchant Navy you easily find employment through various consultants and placement agencies. Along with the Merchant Navy qualifications, candidates should also be physically fit. Go through the points given below to learn how to become a merchant navy. The Admission Process of Merchant Navy has been explained below.

Step 1: Pass Class 10 & Class 12

Candidates need to clear Class 10 and Class 12 from a recognized board with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics with minimum marks to sit for an entrance exam or take admission in a Merchant Navy short-term course. 

Step 2: Sit for a Merchant Navy entrance exam

If you want to get a well-recognized degree in the Merchant Navy, you need to pass entrance exams. Many colleges and universities offer admission to candidates based on a 12th-grade passing percentage cut-off. The entrance exam for the Merchant Navy is-

Step 3: Pursue Merchant Navy bachelors program 

To pursue a successful career in the Merchant Navy, one must first complete a bachelor's degree program in a related specialization. The duration of a Merchant Navy bachelor's program varies from 3 years to 4 years. Some of the Merchant Navy bachelor programs that you can enroll has been listed below.

Step 4: Enroll in the Merchant Navy Masters Program 

If the candidate has completed his bachelor's degree, they can apply for a job directly or pursue masters if they wants.

Lateral Admission in Merchant Navy

Lateral Entry (LE) into the second year of Marine Engineering Direct Admission is also available for marine design projects approved by the Directorate General of Shipping. There are two methods for ensuring LE places in Marine Engineering programmes:

1. Having finished the first year of Mechanical or Electrical Engineering.

2. A diploma in comparable engineering courses with a minimum score of around 60% is required.

Admission to Merchant Navy Through Sponsorship

Students who apply to well-known institutes for marine studies may be eligible for sponsored admission to Merchant Navy courses. They can seek support from large maritime groups. If these organizations recognize potential in students, they will support their education as well as their participation in the shipper naval force.

How to Join Merchant Navy After Class 10th?

If you want to join the merchant navy early after completing class 10th only, then you must have passed high school with 40%. Admission is determined by a series of tests and evaluations. First, the candidate must pass one exam, which is followed by a screening test and a written examination. After completing class 10th, a candidate must study one of the following merchant navy courses -

1. Deck Rating Course

2. Engine Rating Course

3. NCV Course

4. Diploma in Marine Engineering (follow it up with DME pre-sea training).

5. Saloon Rating Course

6. GP Rating Course

Career Path to Becoming Merchant Navy After 10th

The complete guide on how to join the merchant navy after Class 10th has been given below. 

Step 1: After graduation from high school, a person can choose a career route that begins with six months of pre-sea training. 

Step 2: Then join the commercial fleet as a trainee. 

Step 3: After that, aim for the rank of able-bodied seaman. 

Step 4: Following that, strive to get promoted to bosun after passing the COC test. 

Step 5: Following that, applicants are prepared to become the ship's captain, chief officer, and second officer, and eventually attempt to pass the DG shipping tests and become deck officers.

How to Join Merchant Navy in India After 12th Class?
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If your goal is to become a merchant navy in India you must have a set plan from class 12th only. Go through the details given below to understand how to join the merchant navy in India

Step 1: To join the merchant navy in India, applicants must have a minimum of 60% or comparable CGPA in their class 12 board exams, as well as a required academic mix of Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.

Step 2: Students can then apply for and pass the JEE and IMU CET merchant navy entrance exams, which are followed by an interview and a medical exam.

Step 3: Applicants must then enroll in a B.Sc. nautical science program at one of the nation's top nautical science universities or a related merchant navy course

Step 4: After completing their 18-month cadet aboard training, students must apply for the Indian government's competency exam.

Step 5: Then, a candidate can join as a Third Officer, then submit applications for promotions and rank increases. Candidates can take and successfully pass examinations after they reach the rank of Third Officer.