How to Join Merchant Navy After 12th in India, Courses, Exams, Salary

How to Join Merchant Navy After 12th : To join the Merchant Navy after 12th, students must complete their 12th grade with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM). They can then apply for courses like Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS), B.Sc in Nautical Science, or Marine Engineering through IMU-CET or company-sponsored exams. Medical fitness and a DG Shipping-approved physical test are mandatory. Many institutes offer pre-sea training, followed by onboard training for hands-on experience. With the right qualifications, students can start their maritime journey as deck cadets or trainee engineers, eventually rising to officer-level ranks. The Merchant Navy offers high salaries, global exposure, and a rewarding career at sea.

Introduction to Merchant Navy as a Career

Merchant Navy is one of the most lucrative and adventurous career paths for students right after the 12th. Unlike the Indian Navy, which is a defense wing, the Merchant Navy deals with commercial shipping – transporting goods and cargo across international waters. It’s a blend of high-paying jobs, world travel, and lifelong experiences at sea.

What makes the Merchant Navy so appealing? For many, it’s the chance to travel the globe while earning a handsome salary. Others are drawn by the thrill of navigating massive vessels or maintaining engineering marvels that traverse oceans. Whether you’re dreaming of becoming a deck officer or an engine room pro, this industry offers a wide range of roles suited to diverse interests and skills.

Still wondering whether you can step into this world after your 12th? Let’s break it down.

How To Join Merchant Navy Directly After 12th?

How To Join Merchant Navy Directly After 12th? : One of the most attractive aspects of the Merchant Navy is that you can join right after completing your 12th, particularly if you have a science background. There are specific diploma and degree courses tailored for students who have just finished their higher secondary education.

You don’t need to wait to finish a regular college degree. In fact, the earlier you start, the better your chances of progressing faster in your maritime career. Many reputed institutes and shipping companies offer direct entry routes through training programs and sponsorship exams. This makes it possible to start earning a stipend within just a year of training.

Students often ask, “Can I join Merchant Navy after 12th without NEET or JEE?” The answer is a resounding YES. You’ll just need to clear maritime-specific exams like IMU-CET or company-sponsored exams. More on that soon.

Eligibility Criteria for Merchant Navy After 12th

To join the Merchant Navy after 12th, you need to meet specific eligibility requirements. These criteria ensure you are physically and academically fit for the responsibilities onboard ships.

Academic Qualifications

• You must have passed 12th with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM).

• A minimum of 60% aggregate marks in PCM is usually required.

• For courses like DNS and Marine Engineering, English marks in 10th or 12th should be at least 50%.

Medical and Physical Requirements

• You must be medically fit with good vision.

• No color blindness is allowed.

• DG Shipping approved doctors conduct the medical tests.

• Minimum height: 157 cm for males, 152 cm for females.

• Weight must be proportionate to height.

Age Limit

• Minimum age: 17.5 years

• Maximum age: 25 years for most undergraduate maritime programs.

• SC/ST candidates may get relaxation up to 5 years.

What Courses Take After 12th to Join Merchant Navy?

after meet the eligibility criteria, the next step is choosing the right course. Depending on your interest—whether you want to be on the deck or in the engine room—there are a few top options:

Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS)

• Duration: 1 year pre-sea + onboard training

• Eligibility: 12th with PCM (minimum 60%)

• Leads to B.Sc. Nautical Science degree later

• One of the fastest ways to start earning

• Must pass IMU-CET and get company sponsorship

B.Sc Nautical Science

• Duration: 3 years

• Eligibility: 12th PCM with 60% minimum

• Offers a deeper understanding of ship operations

• After completion, you become a deck cadet and climb up the officer ranks

Marine Engineering

• Duration: 4 years

• Eligibility: 12th PCM with 60%

• Leads to positions like 5th or 4th Engineer onboard

• High demand for marine engineers globally

These are DG Shipping-approved programs, meaning they follow Indian maritime regulatory standards and lead to global job opportunities.

Best Colleges for Merchant Navy in India

Choosing the right college is critical. There are both government and private maritime institutions in India, but only a few are truly recognized and respected in the shipping industry.

Top DG Shipping Approved Institutes

Here are some of the best colleges for Merchant Navy aspirants:

Government vs Private Institutes

• Government Colleges like IMU campuses have standardized fees and high-quality education.

• Private Institutes often come with higher fees but offer better placement tie-ups through company sponsorships.

Regardless of the type, make sure the institute is DG Shipping approved—this ensures your certificate will be valid worldwide.

Entrance Exams for Merchant Navy

Getting into the Merchant Navy isn’t just about passing 12th grade—it also requires you to clear specific entrance exams. These tests evaluate your aptitude, reasoning, and understanding of physics, math, and English. The two most common routes are:

IMU-CET (Indian Maritime University Common Entrance Test)

• Who conducts it? Indian Maritime University (IMU)

• Courses covered: DNS, B.Sc Nautical Science, B.Tech Marine Engineering, etc.

• Frequency: Once a year, usually in May or June

• Subjects: English, General Aptitude, Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics

Clearing IMU-CET is mandatory for admission into any IMU-affiliated college. A good rank can land you a seat in top government maritime institutes.

Sponsorship Exams

Many private shipping companies conduct their own sponsorship exams before the IMU-CET. These companies want to recruit and train cadets under their banner, ensuring job placement post-training.

• Companies offering sponsorship: Anglo-Eastern, Great Eastern, Synergy, Fleet Management, etc.

• Exam Format: Written test + Psychometric Test + Interview + Medical

Getting company sponsorship is like a golden ticket—it guarantees placement after training, which is crucial given the competitive job market.

How to Apply for Merchant Navy Courses

Now that you’re clear about eligibility and exams, let’s get into the actual application process. It’s a step-by-step process but not as complicated as it seems.

Step 1: Choose the Right Course and Institute :  Decide whether you want to pursue DNS, B.Sc Nautical Science, or Marine Engineering. Research approved institutes and their placement records.

Step 2: Apply for Sponsorship Programs : Register with top shipping companies and appear for their sponsorship exams. It’s best to get sponsored before applying for IMU-CET.

Step 3: Register for IMU-CET : Once you’ve appeared or cleared sponsorship exams, register online for the IMU-CET. Submit the required documents and pay the application fee.

Step 4: Clear the Medical Test : Appear for a DG Shipping-approved medical examination. If you’re not medically fit, your admission will be canceled.

Step 5: Secure Admission : Based on your IMU-CET rank and sponsorship status, participate in the counseling process. Select your preferred college and pay the admission fees.

Merchant Navy Job Types and Responsibilities

There are several roles you can take up once you’re in the Merchant Navy, depending on your course and specialization. Let’s break them down:

Deck Department:

• Deck Cadet → Third Officer → Second Officer → Chief Officer → Captain

• Responsibilities include navigation, cargo handling, and communication with port authorities.

Engine Department:

• Trainee Marine Engineer → Fourth Engineer → Third Engineer → Second Engineer → Chief Engineer

• They manage ship machinery, engine maintenance, and fuel systems.

Other Roles:

• Electrical Officers

• Catering and Hospitality Crew

• Radio Officers

All these roles offer opportunities for growth and come with increasing salaries as you climb the ranks.

Is Merchant Navy a Government Job?

This is a common misconception. The Merchant Navy is not a government job in the traditional sense. It belongs to the private sector, although it is regulated by government bodies like the Directorate General of Shipping and Indian Maritime University.

However, there are PSU (Public Sector Undertaking) shipping companies like Shipping Corporation of India (SCI), which fall under government control. If you work with them, then yes—your job will technically be a government one. But most Merchant Navy professionals work for private shipping giants or foreign companies.

So, while you’re not a “government employee,” you’re still part of a heavily regulated and globally respected profession.

Merchant Navy Salary Overview

Now let’s talk about the part everyone wants to know—Merchant Navy salary. Is it good? Yes, it’s excellent, especially compared to many land-based jobs. Salaries vary based on rank, type of ship, and employer.

Salary During Training

• Deck Cadet / Trainee Marine Engineer: ₹20,000 to ₹35,000 per month as a stipend

• No tax is applicable if you’re sailing in international waters for more than 183 days a year

Monthly Salary Based on Ranks

Which Ship Has the Highest Salary?

• Oil Tankers

• LNG Carriers

• Offshore Vessels

These ships handle high-risk operations, and salaries are typically 20-30% higher than standard cargo vessels.

Duration and Cost of DNS and Other Courses

A big question on every aspirant’s mind is — “What are the fees of DNS and other Merchant Navy courses?” Let’s break down the duration and cost of the most popular programs.

Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS)

• Duration: 1 year (pre-sea training) + 18 months onboard training

• Total Fees: ₹5 to ₹7 lakhs (varies by institute)

• Includes: Tuition, hostel, food, uniform, study material

• Scholarships: Available in some institutes for meritorious students

DNS is often the most cost-effective route to becoming a deck officer, especially if you’re sponsored. After completing DNS, you appear for the 2nd Mate examination to become an officer.

B.Sc Nautical Science

• Duration: 3 years full-time course

• Total Fees: ₹7 to ₹10 lakhs

Offers deeper theoretical training and leads directly to a deck cadet placement.

B.Tech Marine Engineering

• Duration: 4 years

• Total Fees: ₹8 to ₹12 lakhs

This course is more expensive, but it opens the path to becoming an engineer officer. Many institutes offer EMI payment plans, education loans through partner banks, and even sponsorships where companies cover part of your education in exchange for service contracts.

Is It Easy to Join Merchant Navy?

This is a tricky one. Joining the Merchant Navy might seem straightforward, but it does require a fair bit of preparation, commitment, and grit.

Is Entrance Exam Tough?

IMU-CET and company sponsorship tests aren’t impossible, but they’re competitive. Think of them like any other national-level entrance exam. A solid foundation in Physics, Chemistry, and Math, along with logical reasoning and English skills, will get you through.

Tips to make it easier:

• Start early – ideally during Class 11 or 12.

• Practice mock tests available online.

• Enroll in coaching centers (optional but helpful).

• Focus on sponsorship tests – they’re often less competitive but more direct.

What Is the Easiest Job in Merchant Navy?

The term “easy” is subjective. But here are a few roles considered less stressful:

• Electrical Officers – Shorter contracts, specific work hours.

• Catering Crew (Cook, Steward) – No exams required, but the salary is also lower.

• Trainee Marine Engineers – Structured promotions and job safety.

However, every job onboard a ship comes with responsibilities. Life at sea is not for everyone – it requires discipline, adaptability, and resilience.

Merchant Navy vs Indian Navy: Know the Difference

Many people confuse the Merchant Navy with the Indian Navy, but the two are vastly different in purpose, structure, and lifestyle.

So, if you’re looking for a high-paying, travel-intensive, and fast-paced career, Merchant Navy is ideal. If you value national service, discipline, and job security, the Indian Navy is for you.

Navy Jobs After 12th – Eligibility and Courses

What if you’re interested in the Indian Navy instead of the Merchant Navy? Good news — you can apply right after 12th, especially if you’re from a science background.

Qualifications for Indian Navy

• Educational Qualification: 10+2 with Physics and Math

• Age Limit: 17 to 20 years for sailor entries; up to 24 for officer entries

• Gender: Open to both males and females

Best Courses for Indian Navy After 12th

• B.Tech under the 10+2 (B.Tech) Cadet Entry Scheme

• Sailor (SSR & AA) Entries

• NDA (National Defence Academy) Entry

These are competitive and require appearing in NDA or written exams like INET or AFCAT for officers.

Navy Entrance Exams

• NDA Exam (for officer entry via Army/Navy/Airforce)
• Indian Navy Sailor Exam (SSR/AA)
• INET (Indian Navy Entrance Test)
• CDS (for graduates)

Job Security & Career Growth in Merchant Navy

While Merchant Navy jobs are contractual, they offer immense career growth and financial security. You start as a cadet or trainee and work your way up the ranks.

• Promotions: Based on experience, exams, and onboard performance.

• Stability: Once you’re employed with a good company, contracts are regular and salaries are reliable.

• Retirement Benefits: Not standard unless you’re in a PSU or government setup, but private firms often provide insurance, bonuses, and pensions.

Many officers retire early from sailing and transition into lucrative shore-based roles like port management, marine insurance, logistics, or shipping consultancy

Should I Join Merchant Navy?

If you’re looking for an adventurous, high-paying, and rewarding career, the Merchant Navy could be your dream come true. It’s a profession that not only pays well but also allows you to travel the world and experience different cultures—all while building a solid career.

But remember, it’s not for the faint-hearted. Life at sea comes with its own set of challenges—long periods away from family, working in extreme conditions, and adapting to international standards.

If you’re determined, disciplined, and have a love for the ocean, then there’s no better time than now to start your journey in the Merchant Navy.