For Indian students who have recently finished their 12th grade, the merchant navy is a demanding and lucrative professional path. The commercial fleet of ships that travels the world’s oceans carrying passengers and cargo is known as the merchant navy. The sector provides a wide range of job opportunities for those interested in marine vocations and is crucial for international trade and the world economy. We will go through how to join Merchant Navy after 12th education in this article.
| Industry | Marine |
| Profession | Merchant Navy |
| Eligibility | 10+2 passed or gradute |
| Courses | Bachelor of Science in Nautical Science Bachelor of Technology in Marine Engineering Diploma in Nautical Science |
| Age Limit | Minimum: 17 and Maximum: 25 |
| Entrance Exams | IMU CET, JEE Advanced, AIMNET |
| Average Starting Salary | ₹ 3,50,000 – ₹ 5,00,000 LPA |
The commercial fleet of ships that transports products and people by water is referred to as the “merchant navy.” It differs from a nation’s naval forces, which are in charge of military and defence operations.
The Merchant Navy is essential to international trade and commerce because it moves various things, including raw materials and completed goods, across the oceans. Almost 90% of all trade in the globe is transported through it.
The merchant navy has officers whose job it is to oversee the safe and efficient operation of the ships. They must successfully finish demanding training and certification programmes to demonstrate that they have the skills required to operate the ships and resolve any problems that may arise.
There are many alternatives available through the Merchant Navy for people looking for seagoing employment. Just a handful of the various professions that these positions represent include engineering, catering, and navigation. Officers in the merchant navy may serve aboard a variety of ships, including oil tankers, passenger ships, bulk carriers, and container ships.
Those who want to work in the marine sector may profit in a variety of ways from joining the Merchant Navy. The following are a few benefits of joining and answer to How to join Merchant Navy after 12th:
High pay: Merchant Navy professionals can anticipate earning respectable salaries, which are usually greater than those in similar professions. The compensation packages may also include other benefits like free accommodation, meals, and insurance.
International travel: The Merchant Navy gives its members the chance to meet individuals from other cultures and explore new areas. Also, they may get the opportunity to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Job security: There is always a need for qualified personnel because the Merchant Navy is a developing sector of the economy. It also offers chances to enhance your career and offers employment security.
Developing your career: The Merchant Navy has a variety of job openings, including specialist positions in marine engineering, navigation, and other fields. Via certifications and training courses, professionals can also improve their skills.
Adventure and excitement: Working on a ship may be an exciting and adventurous experience that allows you to see the world, conquer challenges, and pick up new skills.
Tax advantages: The Indian Income Tax Act entitles merchant navy personnel to several tax advantages.
Nevertheless, a career in the Merchant Navy may be demanding, fulfilling, and filled with chances for both personal and professional advancement.
Before getting to know How to join Merchant Navy after 12th, you need to understand first, what is Merchant Navy.
Knowing what the Merchant Navy is and what it includes is crucial when deciding whether to pursue a career in it. Across seas, cargo and passengers are transported by a fleet of commercial ships referred to as the Merchant Navy. There are many different job options available for those who are interested in a marine career in this global sector that is essential to global trade.
The three primary categories of ships in the merchant navy are tankers, cargo ships, and passenger ships. Oil and other liquids are transported by tankers, while cargo and passenger ships transport people. Each type of ship has a variety of positions accessible, and each type of ship has a certain set of skills and qualifications.
Also read: How to join Indian Army
Choosing a course that is right for you is the next step after deciding to seek a career in the merchant navy. You must select the course that best matches your interests and credentials from among the many ones offered to help you start a career in the Merchant Navy.
Some of the popular courses for How to join Merchant Navy after 12th in India are:
| Course | Eligibility | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor of Science in Nautical Science | 10+2 passed with PCM as the main subject | 3 years |
| Bachelor of Technology in Marine Engineering | 10+2 passed with PCM as the main subject and JEE entrance exam | 4 years |
| Diploma in Nautical Science | 10+2 passed with PCM as the main subject | 2 years |
| Diploma in Marine Engineering | 10+2 passed with PCM as the main subject | 1 year |
| Electro-Technical Officer Course | 10+2 passed with PCM as the main subject | 6 months |
How to join Merchant Navy after 12th: Bachelor of Science in Nautical Science
One undergraduate degree programme that prepares students for positions in the Merchant Navy is the Bachelor of Science in Nautical Science. The basics of navigation, seamanship, cargo handling, marine engineering, and other related subjects are heavily emphasised in the curriculum.
The curriculum normally combines classroom instruction with practical training on land and at sea. The stability of ships, cargo handling, marine laws and regulations, meteorology, and other topics important to the safe and effective operation of ships are all taught to students.
Graduates can work as deck officers or navigating officers in the Merchant Navy after completing school. They are in responsible of maintaining operational control, ensuring the safety of the crew and cargo, and navigating ships. They might also manage the loading and unloading of cargo at ports.
Students enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Nautical Science programme must also complete a set amount of sea time aboard ships, as well as go through several certification and training programmes, to be eligible to work in the Merchant Navy.
How to join Merchant Navy after 12th: Bachelor of Technology in Marine Engineering
One undergraduate degree programme that prepares students for careers in marine engineering is the Bachelor of Technology in Marine Engineering. Developing students’ abilities and understanding in areas like shipbuilding and design, electrical and electronic systems, maritime propulsion systems, and other relevant subjects is a major focus of the programme.
The curriculum typically consists of classroom instruction, laboratory work, and practical training in shipyards or aboard maritime engineering businesses. In addition to diagnosing and resolving mechanical and electrical problems, students learn how to construct and operate ship engines, boilers, pumps, and other equipment.
In shipyards, the merchant navy, the offshore oil and gas industry, or other relevant industries, graduates of the school may find employment as marine engineers. In addition to making sure everyone on board is safe, they are in responsible of operating the ship’s machinery and propulsion systems, keeping them maintained and repaired.
In addition to meeting academic criteria, graduates of the Bachelor of Technology in Marine Engineering programme must pass a number of certification tests and training programmes before they may work in the maritime sector. To get real-world experience, they might also need to log a particular amount of sea time on ships. This is one of the best courses for How to join Merchant Navy after 12th.
How to join Merchant Navy after 12th: Diploma in Nautical Science
An undergraduate diploma programme in nautical science trains students to become deck officers in the merchant navy. The curriculum is designed to help students advance their knowledge and abilities in subjects like cargo operations, navigation, seamanship, and ship stability.
The curriculum normally combines classroom instruction with practical training on land and at sea. Students study topics such as meteorology, marine rules and regulations, ship design and building, and other relevant topics. Students also get hands-on training in managing and operating ships.
Graduates can work as deck officers or navigating officers in the Merchant Navy after completing school. They are in charge of controlling the ship’s operations, making sure the crew and cargo are safe, and navigating ships. They might also manage the loading and unloading of cargo at ports.
Students enrolled in the Diploma in Nautical Science degree must also complete a predetermined amount of sea time aboard ships, as well as go through numerous certification and training programmes, to be eligible to work in the Merchant Navy.
How to join Merchant Navy after 12th: Diploma in Marine Engineering
Those who desire to work in the sector can study for a marine engineering undergraduate diploma degree. Students’ knowledge and skills in areas including shipbuilding and design, electrical and electronic systems, marine propulsion systems, and other relevant topics are being improved through the programme.
The curriculum is mostly made up of classroom instruction, laboratory work, and practical training in shipyards or aboard maritime engineering enterprises. In addition to learning how to recognise and fix mechanical and electrical issues, students also receive an understanding of the design and upkeep of ship engines, boilers, pumps, and other machinery.
Marine engineers with a degree from the institution can find employment in shipyards, the merchant navy, offshore oil and gas, and other related industries. In addition to making sure the crew and the ship are safe, they are in responsible of running, maintaining, and repairing the equipment and propulsion systems on board.
Students participating in the Diploma in Marine Engineering programme must additionally complete a number of training programmes and certifications to get the credentials necessary to operate in the maritime industry. They could also need to complete a predetermined amount of sea time on ships to gain experience.
How to join Merchant Navy after 12th: Electro-Technical Officer Course
A training course called the Electro-Technical Officer (ETO) Course is designed to get people ready to work as electro-technical officers on ships. The electrical and electronic systems on board a ship, including the communication, navigation, and safety systems, are the responsibility of the ETO.
Electrical theory, electronic systems, computer networking, communication systems, and automation systems are just a few of the topics the course normally covers. Moreover, it could include practical instruction on tools and gear frequently used aboard ships.
People typically need a background in electrical engineering or a similar subject to enrol in an ETO course. They might also need to have prior maritime industry employment experience.
Those who complete the training can look for work as ETOs on a variety of ships, including cargo ships, cruise ships, and offshore boats. Due to the importance of electronic systems to the safe and effective running of ships, an ETO’s position is frequently well-paid and in high demand.
There are requirements you must complete to enrol in courses with the Merchant Navy. Depending on the course you select, the qualifying requirements may vary, but generally speaking, the following credentials are required:
Age: To enrol in a course in the Merchant Navy, you must be between the ages of 17 and 25.
Education: You must have completed your 12th grade (or the equivalent) and received at least 60% in the subjects of mathematics, physics, and chemistry.
Physical Fitness: You must be in good health and adhere to the merchant navy’s medical requirements.
Language: English language proficiency is a need as it is the language used aboard ships.
After you have chosen a course and met the eligibility criteria, the next step is to appear for the entrance exam. Most Merchant Navy courses have an entrance exam that you need to clear to be eligible for admission.
- IMU CET: Indian Maritime University Common Entrance Test
- AIMNET: All India Merchant Navy Entrance Test
- JEE: Joint Entrance Examination conducted by IITs
- GATE: Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering
The IMU CET is the most popular entrance exam in India for merchant navy programmes. It is organised by the Indian Maritime University and takes place every June. Multiple-choice questions from areas including maths, physics, chemistry, English, and general knowledge are covered in the exam. This is one of the best entrance exams for aspirants who looking for How to join Merchant Navy after 12th.
Another admission examination administered by the Indian Navy is the AIMNET. Every year in May, it is held and includes classes in maths, physics, chemistry, and English.
Some institutions accept the JEE and GATE exams for admission to their Merchant Navy programmes. These tests often demand a higher level of preparation and are more challenging than the IMU CET and AIMNET tests.
The selection procedure is the next stage after you pass the entrance exam. Depending on the programme and institution you chose, the selection procedure may change, however, the general procedure is as follows:
Written Exam: The first stage of the employment process entails taking a written exam including subjects like maths, physics, chemistry, and English.
Interview: Following your success on the written test, you will be contacted for an interview. The interview will involve evaluations of your personality, communication skills, and interest in joining the Merchant Navy.
Medical Examination: Upon passing the interview, you will be needed to undergo a medical examination to see if you are physically capable of serving in the merchant navy.
Final Selection: The final selection will be based on how well you did on the written exam, in the interview, and during the medical examination. If you are selected, you will have the option to enrol in the course.
The training comes after you have been chosen for a course in the Merchant Navy. Depending on the programme and institution you select, the training may vary, but the overall training procedure is as follows:
Here are the details of How to join Merchant Navy after 12th: Training program:-
Classroom Training: Maritime law, navigation, marine engineering, and other topics are covered during the initial phase of training, which takes place in a classroom setting.
Practical Training: Following receiving classroom instruction, you will need to complete practical training on ships. You will gain practical experience in ship repair and operation thanks to this programme.
On-board Training: Following the conclusion of your practical training, you will need to complete on-board training. Your familiarity with ship operations daily from this course will help you in your upcoming position aboard ships.
Certification: Following completing your training, you will need to pass several certification exams to be eligible for your position on board ships. The Directorate General of Shipping administers these tests, which are required for all members of the Merchant Navy.
Those who want to succeed in the Merchant Navy must possess a certain set of skills and character traits because it is a highly specialised and demanding field. The following are some of the skills frequently required for a career in the Merchant Navy:
| Skills Requirement |
|---|
| Technical knowledge and expertise |
| Communication skills |
| Problem-solving abilities |
| Teamwork |
| Physical fitness |
| Adaptability |
Here are the details of How to join Merchant Navy after 12th skill requirement:
Technical knowledge and expertise: Members of the Merchant Navy must possess technical knowledge and experience to manage and maintain a variety of ships and equipment. They must be knowledgeable in technical areas such as cargo handling, ship design, marine engineering, and navigation.
Communication skills: The merchant navy requires its professionals to be skilled communicators. With other crew members, port employees, and other individuals associated with the maritime industry, they must be able to speak coherently.
Problem-solving abilities: Members of the Merchant Navy must be fast thinkers who can find solutions to issues quickly and effectively. They must be capable of handling crises and making choices that put the safety of the ship, crew, and cargo first.
Teamwork: Collaboration is a need for professionals working in the Merchant Navy because it is a team-based environment. To guarantee the efficient running of the ship, they must be able to work together with their coworkers, managers, and other stakeholders.
Physical fitness: Physical stamina and fitness are necessary for working on a ship. Professionals working in the Merchant Navy must be able to endure the physical demands of the job, which include long hours, hard lifting, and exposure to inclement weather.
Adaptability: Adaptability is a prerequisite for professionals in the Merchant Navy because it is a dynamic field that constantly changes. They must have the flexibility to adjust to various timetables, weather patterns, and port rules, among other things.
The position a person holds, the kind of ship they work on, and their amount of experience all have an impact on their pay in India’s merchant navy. The following is the predicted salary ranges for the various specialisations the Indian Merchant Navy offers:
| Job Profile | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Captain | ₹ 8,00,000 – ₹ 10,00,000 LPA |
| Chief Officer | ₹ 5,00,000 – ₹ 6,00,000 LPA |
| 2nd Officer | ₹ 4,00,000 – ₹ 6,00,000 LPA |
| 3rd Officer | ₹ 6,00,000 – ₹ 8,00,000 LPA |
| Marine Engineer: | ₹ 5,00,000 – ₹ 10,00,000 LPA |
| Electro-Technical Officer | ₹ 6,00,000 – ₹ 12,00,000 LPA |
| Ratings | ₹ 2,00,000 – ₹ 5,00,000 LPA |
The aforementioned salary ranges should be taken into consideration as estimates that could alter depending on the company, ship type, location, and demand for competent professionals, among other factors. Free food, accommodation, and insurance are other benefits that some companies may offer.
For students interested in marine occupations, joining the Merchant Navy after high school in India is a tough and lucrative career option. It calls for commitment, diligence, and a love of the water. You can set yourself up for a career in the Merchant Navy and contribute significantly to world trade and the economy by taking the steps suggested in this article.
So this is the end of this post, here we have discussed How to join Merchant Navy after 12th