How to Join the Merchant Navy After 10th

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Published by Shipment at November 28, 2025

How to Join the Merchant Navy After 10th

The Merchant Navy offers adventure, excellent salary, and a global career path—all starting right after 10th grade. If you’re passionate about life at sea, machinery, or international travel, learning how to join the Merchant Navy after 10th could be your gateway to a rewarding future.

Unlike traditional college paths, the Merchant Navy allows you to gain technical training early and earn while you learn. It is a unique career where education, practical skills, and experience go hand in hand. By joining early, you get a head start in a profession that values both knowledge and hands-on expertise.

How to Join the Merchant Navy After 10th – Complete Process

1. Choose the Right Course
After passing 10th grade, you can enroll in GP Rating Course or NCV (Near Coastal Voyage) Course. These are 6-month pre-sea training programs approved by the Directorate General of Shipping (India).

2. Eligibility Criteria

Minimum qualification: 10th pass from a recognized board
Age: 17.5 to 25 years
Medical: Eyesight should be 6/6 (no color blindness), medically fit as per DG Shipping norms

3. Apply to a DG Shipping Approved Institute
Only choose institutes approved by the Directorate General of Shipping, India. Some reputed ones include:

Anglo-Eastern Maritime Academy
Great Eastern Institute of Maritime Studies
HIMT College
Samundra Institute of Maritime Studies

4. Undergo Pre-Sea Training
You’ll receive training in seamanship, fire safety, swimming, first aid, and shipboard safety.

5. Get a CDC (Continuous Discharge Certificate)
After training, you receive a CDC and STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) certificates.

6. Start Your Sea Career as an Ordinary Seaman (OS)
You begin with entry-level duties, then climb ranks to become Able Seaman (AB), Bosun, or Officer with experience and further exams.

Top Merchant Navy Courses After 10th

Course	Duration	Qualification	Career Start
GP Rating	6 months	10th Pass	Ordinary Seaman
NCV Deck Cadet	6 months	10th Pass + Maths & Science	Deck Cadet
Saloon Rating	6 months	10th Pass	Catering Department

How to Join the Merchant Navy After 10th

Benefits of Joining the Merchant Navy After 10th

Early career start
High salary in foreign currency
Global travel opportunities
Tax-free income for NRI seafarers
Fast career progression

Skills Required for Merchant Navy

To succeed in the Merchant Navy, students must develop the following skills:

Physical Fitness: Life at sea requires stamina and strength
Technical Knowledge: Familiarity with engineering, navigation, or electronics
Problem Solving: Quick decisions during emergencies
Teamwork: Working with diverse crews
Adaptability: Adjusting to life away from home

Advantages of Joining Merchant Navy After 10th

Early start in a lucrative career
Opportunity to travel the world
Exposure to international maritime practices
Personal and professional growth
Stable and tax-free income for offshore work

Conclusion

If you’re looking for an adventurous and high-paying career path right after 10th, understanding how to join the merchant navy after 10th can change your life. With the right training, institute, and discipline, you can begin a journey that combines travel, technology, and success at sea.

FAQs

Q: Can I join the merchant navy after 10th without science?
A: Yes, for the GP Rating course, 10th pass with any stream is acceptable.

Q: What is the duration of the GP Rating course?
A: It is typically 6 months of residential training.

Q: Do I need to know swimming?
A: Basic swimming skills help, but you’ll be trained during the course.

Q: What is the salary after joining the merchant navy after 10th?
A: Entry-level seafarers (OS) earn ₹20,000–₹40,000/month, with growth over time.

Q: Is there any entrance exam to join after 10th?
A: No entrance exam is needed. Selection is based on academic marks, interview, and medical fitness.

Q: Is the merchant navy job permanent?
A: It works on contract basis. With experience and rank, you can secure long-term positions and promotions.