How to Prepare for Studies to Join the Merchant Navy

The Merchant Navy is a great career option for students who want a challenging job, good salary, and the opportunity to travel around the world. It involves working on commercial ships such as cargo ships, oil tankers, and container vessels. To join the Merchant Navy, proper education, training, and preparation are very important. In this article, we will explain how to study and what steps you need to follow to build a career in the Merchant Navy.

1. Understand What the Merchant Navy Is

Before starting preparation, it is important to understand what the Merchant Navy does. The Merchant Navy is responsible for transporting goods, fuel, and passengers across oceans. Jobs in the Merchant Navy are mainly divided into two departments:

Deck Department (Navigation and ship handling)
Engine Department (Machinery and technical operations)

There is also the Catering Department for hospitality roles on ships. Each department has different study requirements.

2. Educational Qualification Required

Your studies for the Merchant Navy depend on the course you choose.

After 10th pass:
You can apply for GP Rating or Diploma in Nautical Science foundation courses.
After 12th (Science):
If you have passed 12th with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM), you can apply for popular courses like:
- B.Sc. Nautical Science
- Diploma in Nautical Science
- Marine Engineering
- Electro-Technical Officer (ETO)

For most officer-level courses, PCM in 12th is compulsory with at least 50–60% marks, depending on the institute.

3. Subjects You Need to Focus On

To prepare well, you should focus on these subjects:

Physics: Important for understanding navigation, mechanics, and ship operations.
Mathematics: Used in navigation, calculations, and engineering.
Chemistry: Important for fuel knowledge, materials, and safety.
English: Very important because all communication on ships is in English.

Improving your English speaking and writing skills will give you a big advantage.

4. Entrance Exams Preparation

Some reputed institutes conduct entrance exams for Merchant Navy courses. Exams like IMU-CET (Indian Maritime University – Common Entrance Test) are required for many officer-level courses.

To prepare:

Study PCM syllabus of Class 11 and 12
Practice numerical problems regularly
Solve previous years’ question papers
Take online mock tests

Consistent practice and time management are key to clearing these exams.

5. Physical and Medical Fitness

Physical fitness is very important in the Merchant Navy. You must pass a medical test approved by DG Shipping.

Basic medical requirements include:

Good eyesight (some courses allow spectacles within limits)
No color blindness
Good overall health
Proper height and weight as per standards

To prepare:

Exercise regularly
Maintain a healthy diet
Avoid smoking, alcohol, and unhealthy habits

6. Choose a DG Shipping Approved Institute

Always choose a DG Shipping-approved maritime institute. This ensures your certificate is valid and accepted by shipping companies.

Before taking admission:

Check approval on the DG Shipping website
Avoid agents promising guaranteed jobs
Research course fees, placements, and reviews

A good institute will also help you with onboard training and placements.

7. Develop Discipline and Soft Skills

Life on a ship requires discipline, teamwork, and responsibility. Along with studies, work on:

Time management
Leadership skills
Communication skills
Problem-solving ability

You should also be mentally prepared to stay away from family for long periods.

8. Career Growth in Merchant Navy

With experience and exams, you can grow from junior positions to senior ranks like:

Captain (Deck side)
Chief Engineer (Engine side)

Continuous learning and clearing competency exams are part of this career.

Conclusion

Preparing to join the Merchant Navy requires the right education, focused study of PCM subjects, good physical fitness, and admission to a recognized institute. If you start early, stay disciplined, and follow the correct path, the Merchant Navy can offer you a rewarding career with global exposure, high income, and adventure. With dedication and smart preparation, your dream of sailing the seas can become a reality.