The Merchant Navy offers adventure, global travel, and strong career growth for young Indians after school. Unlike the defence navy, it manages commercial shipping—transporting goods, oil, passengers, and raw materials worldwide.
If you’ve just completed your 12th and want a stable, high-paying, and internationally mobile career, the Merchant Navy could be your best option. This guide explains every step—eligibility, approved courses, documentation, and how SSNT Maritime College, a DG Shipping-approved training institute in Tamil Nadu, helps you start.
Step 1 – Understand the Merchant Navy Career Path
The Merchant Navy has three primary departments:
| Department | Primary Role | Starting Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Deck Department | Navigation, cargo operations, ship safety | Deck Cadet / Ordinary Seaman |
| Engine Department | Machinery operation & maintenance | Engine Cadet / Oiler |
| Catering Department | Food & hospitality onboard | Saloon Rating / Steward |
Each path starts with a DG Shipping approved pre-sea course, then sea time, exams, and promotions to officer level.
Step 2 – Choose the Right DG Shipping Approved Course
Entry-level for Deck or Engine department aspirants. Covers seamanship, firefighting, first aid, survival techniques.
Duration: 6 months
Eligibility: 10 + 2 (pass, 40% aggregate, English)
Age: 17½–25 years.
For students interested in hospitality onboard cruise or cargo ships. Includes food preparation, service, and safety training.
Mandatory short-term training for all seafarers under the STCW 2010 Convention:
- Personal Survival Techniques (PST)
- Fire Prevention & Fire Fighting (FPFF)
- Elementary First Aid (EFA)
- Personal Safety & Social Responsibilities (PSSR)
Practical add-ons like welding, seamanship, and fire drills enhancing employability.
Step 3 – Check Eligibility & Medical Fitness
- Academic: Pass 12th standard (Science/Commerce/Arts, 40% min)
- Age: 17½ to 25 years
- Medical: As per DG Shipping rules—6/6 eyesight (no color blindness), physically fit.
Step 4 – Choose a DG Approved Maritime Institute
Your certificate is valid only if the college is DG Shipping approved.
SSNT Maritime College, located in Maduranthakam (Kanchipuram District, Tamil Nadu), is authorized to offer all major DG-approved courses with modern labs, experienced faculty, and placement support.
Step 5 – Admission & Documentation
Documents Required
- 10th & 12th mark sheets (photocopy)
- Transfer certificate & Aadhaar copy
- Passport / Application proof
- Medical Fitness Certificate (approved DG doctor)
- 5 passport-size photos
- Fill online enquiry / application form.
- Attend counselling session at campus.
- Verify documents and medical fitness.
- Secure seat in the next batch.
Step 6 – Complete Pre-Sea Training
Training covers: ship terminology, safety drills, fire fighting, navigation, marine engineering basics, and discipline.
SSNT provides hands-on exposure through simulators and port visits to Chennai, Ennore, and Karaikal.
Step 7 – Get Your CDC and Join a Ship
After training, you receive the Continuous Discharge Certificate (CDC) from DG Shipping and can apply to shipping companies or agencies for onboard training berths.
Typical employers: Merchant cargo lines, cruise ships, tanker operators, and offshore companies.
Step 8 – Career Progression and Salary
| Rank | Typical Experience | Approx. Monthly Salary (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Deck Cadet / Trainee Rating | After course | 900–1,200 |
| Able Seaman / Oiler | + 12 months sea time | 1,400–1,800 |
| Bosun / Pumpman / Cook | + 3–5 years | 1,800–2,500 |
| Officer Ranks | Post competency exam | 3,000 + |
Career growth is merit-based and international.
DG Shipping Portal, IMO STCW Convention)
Step 9 – Upgrade Your Skills with Refresher & Value-Added Courses
- DG Shipping approved for all major courses
- 100% compliance with STCW 2010
- Qualified faculty with sea service experience
- Hostel + transport + campus placement support
- Regular ship visits and industrial exposure
FAQs
Q1. Can I join the Merchant Navy after 12th Commerce or Arts?
Yes. You can join through the Saloon Rating course or GP Rating (Deck/Engine rating).
Q2. Is a degree required for Merchant Navy?
No. Certificate and sea time are the primary requirements for ratings.
Q3. How long does it take to become an officer?
Typically 3–5 years of sea time plus competency exams.
Q4. Are the courses at SSNT approved by DG Shipping?
Yes. All courses are officially approved and listed on the DG Shipping portal.
Conclusion
Joining the Merchant Navy after 12th is one of the most rewarding career choices for Indian students seeking international exposure and financial growth.
SSNT Maritime College provides DG Shipping-approved courses, industry training, and placement guidance to help you succeed.
Start your training with SSNT today and set sail towards a global career at sea.