How Can You Start a Career in the Merchant Navy Post-10th?

by Tanu Bhatanagar

Discover the expansive $2.9 trillion global shipping industry, set to burgeon with 355 million jobs by 2025. This statistical odyssey not only charts the vast economic waters but also unveils key insights for 10th graders aspiring to navigate a career in this thriving maritime landscape.

Two Pivotal Entry Points: Choose Your Anchor

1. GP Rating Course 2. Open CDC

1. GP Rating Course

Eligibility: Minimum 40% in English, Math, and Science in 10th or 12th grade, Age between 17.5-25 years, DG Shipping-approved medical test. Entrance: Common Entrance Exam (CET) or institution-specific tests. Top Colleges: Indian Institute of Maritime Studies (Mumbai), MERI (Mumbai), A.D. Shroff Maritime College (Mumbai).

2. Open CDC 

Alternative Pathway: Enroll in DG Shipping-approved maritime institute for STCW courses  Certification and Application: Upon completion, receive STCW certificates and apply for the Continuous Discharge Certificate (CDC). Initial Hurdles: Securing the first ship assignment might be challenging due to high competition and potential fraudulent activities.

Specialized Training 

Deck Rating Course: Master seafaring skills for deck operations. Engine Rating Course: Become a technical whiz in the ship's engine department. Saloon Rating Course: Ascend to culinary and hospitality mastery. Diploma in Marine Engineering: Engineer excellence, both in port and at sea.

Earning Potential

Entry-level Salaries: Ordinary Seamen earn $200-$300 per month during initial training. Progressive Earnings: Promotions and advancements lead to significant salary increases. Officers' Salaries: Command salaries ranging between $3000-$4000 per month.