A Complete Guide to Joining the Merchant Navy After Class 12
Choosing a career after Class 12 can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options available. But if you’re looking for a high-paying job, global recognition, and a chance to travel the world, a career in Merchant Navy might be the perfect path for you.
The Merchant Navy is more than just sailing—it’s about operating massive cargo ships, handling advanced marine engineering, and playing a vital role in international trade. With great salaries, opportunities to visit different countries, and a prestigious career, this field offers an exciting future.
Many students struggle to find the right information on how to join the Merchant Navy after Class 12. That’s why Rife Consultancy has created this guide to help you navigate the process
Why Choose a Career in the Merchant Navy?
A career in the Merchant Navy comes with several amazing benefits that make it one of the most sought-after professions worldwide. Here’s why it’s worth considering:
🌍 Travel the World: Visit different countries and experience new cultures while working.
💰 Great Pay & Perks: Earn a high salary, often tax-free, depending on where you work.
🎖️ Respect & Recognition: Roles like deck officer or marine engineer command a lot of prestige.
🚢 Exciting & Dynamic Life: Every day at sea is different—no boring office routine!
📈 Career Growth: Start as a cadet and work your way up to a captain or chief engineer with increasing responsibilities and pay.
How to Join the Merchant Navy After Class 12
Your career path in the Merchant Navy depends on what role you want to pursue. Here’s a breakdown of different career options and what you need to study:
1. Deck Officer – Navigating the Ship
If you want to steer the ship, handle navigation, and ensure smooth sailing, consider these courses:
- B.Sc. in Nautical Science (3 years): Focuses on navigation, maritime laws, and ship operations.
- Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS) (1 year + onboard training, leading to B.Sc.): A fast-track option to become a deck officer.
2. Marine Engineer – Running the Ship’s Machinery
If working with ship engines and mechanical systems interests you, go for:
- B.E./B.Tech in Marine Engineering (4 years): Covers ship propulsion, mechanics, and automation.
3. Rating – Entry-Level Crew Member
If you want to start working at sea early, this course is for you:
- Pre-Sea GP Rating Course (6 months): Prepares you for deck or engine crew roles.
4. Catering Department – Managing Food & Hospitality
If you enjoy cooking and hospitality, you can choose:
- Maritime Catering Course (6 months): Trains you for shipboard catering roles.
- B.Sc. in Maritime Catering (3 years): In-depth training in catering and food safety at sea.
Eligibility Criteria for Joining the Merchant Navy
To join a Merchant Navy institute in Surat or anywhere in India, you need to meet these requirements:
- Age: 17 to 25 years (varies by course)
- Education: Class 12 with PCM (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics) for technical courses
- Medical Fitness: Good eyesight (6/6 vision, no color blindness) and overall medical fitness
- Physical Fitness: You must pass a medical exam by a Directorate General of Shipping (DGS)-approved doctor
Step-by-Step Process to Join the Merchant Navy
Step 1: Choose Your Career Path
Decide whether you want to be a deck officer, marine engineer, or take up another role at sea.
Step 2: Apply for Sponsorship & Secure a Pre-Placement Offer
Some shipping companies offer sponsorship exams. If you pass, you get a sponsorship letter, which ensures you’ll get onboard training and placement after your course.
Step 3: Clear the IMU-CET Exam
Most top maritime institutes require students to clear the Indian Maritime University Common Entrance Test (IMU-CET) for admission. Rife Consultancy provides training to help students pass this exam with ease.
Step 4: Join a Reputed Institute
Select a Merchant Navy institute in Surat or any DGS-approved institute in India to begin your education.
Step 5: Complete Your Course & Pre-Sea Training
Finish your 6-month to 4-year course before starting onboard training.
Step 6: Gain Onboard Training & Certification
Work as a cadet onboard ships and obtain your Certificate of Competency (CoC) issued by DG Shipping, Government of India.
Step 7: Get Hired & Start Your Career
Once your training is done, you can join top shipping companies worldwide through campus placements or job consultants like Rife Consultancy.
One of Many Inspiring Success Stories!
Smit Lokhandwala
“I never imagined myself sailing across the world, working on massive ships, and living a life of adventure. But everything changed when I saw an ad about the Merchant Navy during my 12th grade. The idea of traveling, earning well, and doing something unique grabbed my attention.
With the help of Rife Consultancy, I started preparing for IMU-CET while balancing my studies. It wasn’t easy, but I stayed focused. When my IMU-CET rank (1107) opened doors to top institutes like SIMS, Anglo Eastern, Great Eastern, and SCI, I chose SIMS and began my Pre-Sea Training.
After serving my waiting period, I joined my first ship. The first month was tough—new environment, strict seniors, and a steep learning curve—but I never backed down. Over time, I sailed on three ships, gaining 19 months of experience. Clearing my Certificate of Competency (CoC) exams was a proud moment—it felt like unlocking my future.
Looking back, joining the Merchant Navy was the best decision of my life. It’s not always easy, but the adventure, financial security, and personal growth make it all worth it. If I can do it, so can you!”
Our Final Thoughts
The Merchant Navy is not just a career – it’s a way of life that offers adventure, financial stability, and global exposure. If you dream of traveling the world while building a rewarding career, this path is worth considering. While the journey requires dedication, the rewards are unparalleled. With the right guidance and preparation, like the support provided by Rife Consultancy, you can turn your aspirations into reality. So, take the first step today, and who knows? You might just find yourself sailing towards an extraordinary future!
