Merchant Navy 2026: Courses, Eligibility, Exam Date, Salary

Dreaming of a career that lets you travel the world, earn a great salary, and live an adventurous life at sea? 
Many students in India — especially in Maharashtra — dream of joining the Merchant Navy 2026, but don’t know where to start.

1) Introduction — What Is the Merchant Navy?

The Merchant Navy offers more than just a job — it’s a lifestyle of discipline, global exposure, and pride. Yet, most young aspirants struggle with questions like: What is the eligibility? When is the exam? How much is the salary? How do I apply online for Merchant Navy 2026?

This guide answers all of that and more.
In this article, you’ll learn everything about Merchant Navy 2026 — from eligibility criteria, syllabus, and exam dates to salary details and how to join after 10th or 12th. Whether you’re planning to apply for the GP Rating course, Deck Cadet program, or marine engineering, this complete breakdown will help you make the right career decision.

The Merchant Navy is one of India’s most respected and high-paying career options for students who want to see the world while working. With increasing global demand for skilled seafarers, Merchant Navy 2026 is the perfect time to begin your journey.

By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly how to apply, what to study, what documents you need, and what kind of salary and career growth to expect. So, if you’re ready to turn your dream of working at sea into reality — let’s dive in and explore how to join the Merchant Navy in 2026 step by step.

a) Merchant Navy vs Indian Navy: Key Difference

Feature	Merchant Navy	Indian Navy
Purpose	Commercial shipping and global trade	National defense and maritime security
Type of Work	Transporting cargo and goods	Protecting the country’s sea borders
Employment	Private or international shipping companies	Government (Ministry of Defence)
Training	Conducted at DG Shipping–approved institutes	Conducted at Naval academies
Career Perks	High salary, world travel, tax-free income	Government service, medals, pensions

In short, the Merchant Navy is for those who want a professional sea career with global exposure and excellent pay, while the Indian Navy is for those who wish to serve and defend the nation. 

b) Why Choose the Merchant Navy in 2026?

The year 2026 is expected to bring a fresh wave of opportunities in the shipping industry as global trade continues to expand. Shipping companies are hiring new cadets and crew members, and institutes are offering advanced training aligned with international standards.

For students in India — especially in Maharashtra — this is the best time to start preparing. The Merchant Navy 2026 promises stable jobs, attractive salaries, and a chance to see the world while building a prestigious career at sea.

2) Merchant Navy 2026 Eligibility Criteria:

Before applying for Merchant Navy 2026, it’s essential to understand the eligibility criteria for various maritime courses offered across India. These guidelines ensure candidates are academically qualified, physically fit, and ready for a professional seafaring career.

At Training Ship Varren Institute, one of Maharashtra’s trusted maritime training institutes, students can apply for multiple DG Shipping–approved courses, including GP Rating, HND (Higher National Diploma), and STCW courses — each designed to prepare cadets for a successful Merchant Navy career in 2026 and beyond. 

a) Educational Qualification for 10th, 12th & Diploma Students:

Different courses in the Merchant Navy 2026 intake have specific academic requirements. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

Course	Minimum Qualification	Key Subjects Required
GP Rating Course	10th Pass (from a recognized board)	English, Science, and Mathematics
Deck Cadet / DNS (Diploma in Nautical Science)	12th Pass with PCM (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics) – Minimum 60%	English (Min. 50%)
Marine Engineering	12th Pass with PCM 60%	English 50% in 10th or 12th
HND (Higher National Diploma in Nautical Science / Marine Engineering)	12th (PCM) with 50% aggregate OR Diploma in Mechanical / Electrical / Marine	English 50% minimum
STCW (Basic Safety Training)	Open for seafarers and pre-sea students	Must be medically fit

👉 Note: Students appearing for their final board exams in 2026 are also eligible to apply provisionally.

b) Age Limit and Medical Fitness:

Course Type	Age Limit (as of 2026)
GP Rating	17.5 – 25 years
Deck Cadet / DNS	17 – 25 years
Marine Engineering	17 – 25 years
HND Course	17 – 25 years
STCW Course	No strict limit (for existing seafarers or trainees)

Medical Requirements:

• Must be medically fit as per DG Shipping standards.

• Certificate must be issued by an approved DG Shipping doctor.

• No chronic or infectious diseases allowed.

• Normal hearing, movement, and reflexes are mandatory.

c) Physical & Vision Standards:

Seafaring demands top physical and visual health. The Merchant Navy 2026 physical criteria include:

• Height: Minimum 157 cm

• Weight: Proportionate to height and age

• Vision:

  • 6/6 eyesight in both eyes without glasses or lenses

  • No color blindness (mandatory)

• Health:

  • Physically and mentally fit for sea life

  • No history of heart ailments, epilepsy, or motion sickness

d) Documents Required for Application:

Before applying to Training Ship Varren Institute or any other maritime academy, candidates must have the following ready:

✅ 10th & 12th Mark Sheets and Certificates
✅ Birth Certificate or School Leaving Certificate (Proof of Age)
✅ Passport-size Photos (white background)
✅ Aadhar Card or Valid Photo ID
✅ Medical Fitness Certificate (DG Shipping–approved doctor)
✅ Passport (if available)
✅ Caste or Category Certificate (if applicable)
✅ Transfer Certificate or Character Certificate
✅ For HND Students: Diploma or Degree Mark Sheets

3) Merchant Navy 2026 Exam Date and Application Process:

For students planning to join the Merchant Navy 2026, knowing the exam dates and application process is the first step toward a rewarding maritime career. Whether you’re applying for GP Rating, HND, or Deck Cadet courses at Training Ship Varren Institute, understanding the official timeline and application steps will help you stay ahead and secure your seat on time. 

a) Merchant Navy 2026 Exam Schedule (Expected Dates):

The official Merchant Navy 2026 exam dates are usually announced by DG Shipping and respective training institutes between December 2025 and February 2026. Below is the tentative timeline for the upcoming admission cycle:

Event	Expected Date
Online Application Starts	December 2025
Last Date to Apply	March 2026
Admit Card Release	April 2026
Entrance Exam / Interview	April–May 2026
Medical Fitness Test	May–June 2026
Final Selection List	June 2026
Batch Commencement	July–August 2026

Tip: Keep checking the official website of Training Ship Varren Institute or the DG Shipping portal for updated schedules and notices. 

b) Step-by-Step Process to Apply Online:

The online application for Merchant Navy 2026 is simple but must be completed carefully. Follow the step-by-step process below:

1. Visit the Official Website:
   Go to https://www.trainingshipvarren.com/ or the official portal of Training Ship Varren Institute.

2. Choose Your Course:
   Select your preferred course – GP Rating, HND (Nautical / Marine Engineering), or STCW Basic Safety Training.

3. Fill the Application Form:

   • Enter your personal and academic details correctly.

   • Upload required documents (see list below).

   • Review all entries before submission.

4. Upload Documents:

   • 10th & 12th Mark Sheets

   • Birth Certificate

   • Passport-size Photo

   • Aadhar Card or Valid ID

   • Medical Certificate (DG Shipping–approved doctor)

5. Pay the Application Fee:
   Use UPI / Debit Card / Credit Card / Net Banking to complete the payment.

6. Submit & Download Confirmation:
   Once payment is successful, download your application confirmation slip and admit card (when available).

Pro Tip: Always keep a copy of your submitted form and payment receipt for reference during the counseling or interview stage.

📞 Toll-Free: 1800-890-1267

c) Merchant Navy 2026 Application Form Date and Fees:

Each maritime institute may have its own fee structure, but here’s an estimated guide for 2026:

Payment Methods: Online payment through UPI, debit/credit cards, or net banking is accepted on the official Training Ship Varren Institute portal. 

d) Important Documents to Upload:

While applying for Merchant Navy 2026, ensure all documents are scanned clearly and uploaded in the correct format.

✅ 10th & 12th Marksheets
✅ School Leaving / Birth Certificate
✅ Passport-size Photograph (white background)
✅ Aadhar Card / Valid ID Proof
✅ DG Shipping–approved Medical Certificate
✅ Passport (if available)
✅ Caste / Category Certificate (if applicable)
✅ Diploma / Degree Certificate (for HND applicants)

4) Merchant Navy 2026 Syllabus and Exam Pattern: 

If you’re planning to apply for the Merchant Navy 2026, understanding the syllabus and exam pattern is key to securing your spot. The exam mainly tests your understanding of science, mathematics, reasoning, and general awareness — the essential skills for a life at sea.

a) Subjects Covered in the Entrance Exam:

The Merchant Navy 2026 entrance syllabus focuses on testing both academic knowledge and aptitude. Here’s a detailed subject-wise breakdown:

Subject	Topics Covered
Mathematics	Algebra, Trigonometry, Geometry, Mensuration, Profit & Loss, Time & Distance, Speed & Work, Simple & Compound Interest
Science (Physics & Chemistry)	Motion, Work, Energy, Heat, Electricity, Magnetism, Light, Chemical Reactions, Periodic Table, Acids & Bases
English	Grammar, Vocabulary, Comprehension, Sentence Correction, Synonyms & Antonyms
General Knowledge	Current Affairs, Indian Geography, Maritime Awareness, History, Economy
Reasoning / Aptitude	Logical Thinking, Pattern Recognition, Series Completion, Direction Sense, Coding-Decoding, Analytical Ability

Note: The exact syllabus may vary slightly depending on the course (e.g., GP Rating vs HND). However, all exams focus on core problem-solving and maritime awareness.

b) Exam Format, Duration, and Marking Scheme:

The Merchant Navy 2026 exam pattern is designed to test both knowledge and aptitude in a time-bound setup.

Component	Details
Mode of Exam	Online or Offline (depends on institute)
Type of Questions	Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs)
Total Questions	100 – 120
Total Marks	100 Marks
Duration	1.5 to 2 Hours
Subjects Covered	English, Maths, Science, GK, Reasoning
Marking Scheme	+1 for correct answer, no negative marking (varies by institute)
Medium of Exam	English

For institutes like Training Ship Varren Institute, candidates may also undergo an interview and medical fitness test after the written exam to finalize selection.

📞 Toll-Free: 1800-890-1267

c) Tips to Prepare for Merchant Navy 2026 Exam:

Here are some smart preparation strategies to help you perform your best:

 1. Understand the Pattern Early:
Go through the syllabus and exam pattern before starting your preparation. It helps you focus on high-weightage topics first.

 2. Revise Class 10th & 12th Basics:
The questions are mostly based on your school syllabus, especially Maths, Physics, and English. Clear your fundamentals.

3. Practice Mock Tests:
Attempt online mock tests and previous-year papers to build speed and accuracy. Institutes like Training Ship Varren often provide sample papers for practice.

 4. Focus on Maritime Awareness:
Read about shipping terms, famous ports, ocean routes, and basic marine safety — this can give you an edge in GK and interview rounds.

 5. Create a Study Schedule:
Dedicate at least 2–3 hours daily for 2 months before the exam. Balance between theory revision and problem-solving.

 6. Stay Healthy & Confident:
A calm mind and fit body matter as much as preparation. Practice meditation or light exercise to stay sharp for both written and medical tests.

With the right preparation strategy and guidance from reputed academies like Training Ship Varren Institute, you can confidently clear the Merchant Navy 2026 entrance exam and take your first step toward a global maritime career.

4) Merchant Navy 2026 Salary and Career Growth:

One of the biggest reasons students choose the Merchant Navy in 2026 is the high salary, global exposure, and rapid career growth it offers. Unlike most land-based professions, a seafarer’s pay is tax-free (under certain conditions) and comes with benefits like free accommodation, travel, and meals on board. Whether you join through GP Rating, HND, or Deck Cadet courses at Training Ship Varren Institute, your earning potential grows with experience and rank.

a) Starting Salary After Joining Merchant Navy:

Your starting salary in the Merchant Navy 2026 depends on the course you complete and the position you join in. Here’s a general idea:

Entry Level Role	Approx. Salary (Per Month, USD)	Approx. Salary (Per Month, INR)
Ordinary Seaman (OS) / Wiper	$300 – $700	₹25,000 – ₹60,000
Deck Cadet / Engine Cadet	$500 – $1,000	₹40,000 – ₹85,000
Trainee HND Officer (UK Route)	$1,000 – $1,500	₹85,000 – ₹1,25,000

These are onboard training salaries. Once promoted to an officer position, the earnings increase significantly with additional benefits like international travel, insurance, and family allowances.

💡 Tip: Graduates from Training Ship Varren Institute’s HND and GP Rating programs often get placement assistance through Varren’s shipping network, giving them a head start on their first ship posting.

b) Rank-Wise Salary Structure:

As you gain sea-time and experience, promotions bring significant salary hikes. Here’s a breakdown of the rank-wise salary in Merchant Navy (approximate global averages):

Rank / Position	Approx. Monthly Salary (USD)	Approx. Monthly Salary (INR)
Deck Cadet / Engine Cadet	$500 – $1,000	₹40,000 – ₹85,000
Third Officer / Fourth Engineer	$2,000 – $3,000	₹1.6 – ₹2.5 lakh
Second Officer / Third Engineer	$3,000 – $4,000	₹2.5 – ₹3.3 lakh
Chief Officer / Second Engineer	$6,000 – $8,000	₹5 – ₹6.5 lakh
Captain / Chief Engineer	$8,000 – $12,000+	₹6.5 – ₹10 lakh+

Note: Salary depends on vessel type (oil tanker, container ship, bulk carrier, etc.), company, and nationality of employment contract.

c) Career Path and Promotion Opportunities:

The Merchant Navy offers one of the most structured and rewarding career ladders in the world. With consistent sea service, exams, and performance, officers move up ranks quickly — often within a few years.

Deck Department Career Path:

1. Deck Cadet → 2. Third Officer → 3. Second Officer → 4. Chief Officer → 5. Captain (Master)

Engine Department Career Path:

1. Engine Cadet → 2. Fourth Engineer → 3. Third Engineer → 4. Second Engineer → 5. Chief Engineer

Each promotion requires a mix of sea time, competency exams, and practical experience. Institutes like Training Ship Varren Institute provide guidance and STCW refresher training needed to appear for UK MCA or DG Shipping competency exams, helping students upgrade their rank faster.

Career Tip: Joining through HND or GP Rating at Training Ship Varren opens international career pathways — including opportunities to sail under UK, Singapore, and Hong Kong shipping companies, with potential to earn ₹1 crore+ annually at senior levels. 

5) How to Join the Merchant Navy After 10th or 12th in 2026?

If you’re a student dreaming of a career at sea, 2026 is the perfect year to start your journey in the Merchant Navy. Depending on your education level — whether you’ve completed 10th or 12th — there are different entry routes available. Each course leads to rewarding opportunities on international ships with global exposure, high income, and a lifelong adventurous career.

Institutes like Training Ship Varren (TSV) in Maharashtra offer DG Shipping–approved pre-sea training programs that prepare you for this career — including GP Rating, Deck Cadet (DNS), Marine Engineering, HND- Advanced Diploma in Nautical Science, and STCW safety courses.

a) GP Rating Course Route (After 10th):

GP Rating) course is the fastest way to join the Merchant Navy.

Course Overview:

• Eligibility: 10th Pass with English, Science & Maths (min. 40%)
• Age Limit: 17.5 to 25 years (as of 2026)
• Duration: 6 Months (Residential Course)
• Approved By: DG Shipping, Government of India

What You Learn:
The GP Rating course trains you for both Deck and Engine Room operations, covering subjects like:

• Basic Seamanship
• Fire Prevention & Firefighting
• Engine Room Maintenance
• Safety and First Aid
• STCW Basic Safety Training Modules

Career Path:
After completing GP Rating, you’ll join as an Ordinary Seaman (OS) or Wiper on board ships. With experience and additional training, you can get promoted to Able Seaman, Bosun, and eventually to Officer ranks.

At Training Ship Varren Institute, GP Rating cadets receive hands-on training, hostel facilities, uniforms, meals, and campus placement support with reputed shipping companies.

b) : Deck Cadet / DNS Route (After 12th)

For 12th Science (PCM) students, the Deck Cadet or DNS (Diploma in Nautical Science) route is the most popular entry point into the Merchant Navy.

Course Overview:

• Eligibility: 12th Pass with Physics, Chemistry, and Maths (min. 60%)
• English: Minimum 50% in 10th or 12th
• Age Limit: 17 to 25 years
• Duration: 1 Year (Residential Pre-Sea Training)

What You Learn:
The DNS course combines theoretical learning and practical sea training. Subjects include:

• Navigation & Chartwork
• Ship Operations & Cargo Handling
• Meteorology & Oceanography
• Maritime Law & Safety

Career Path:
After completing DNS and 12 months of sea service, candidates can appear for the 2nd Mate Exam (Competency Certificate) and become an Officer on the Bridge (Deck Officer).

🌊 Training Ship Varren Institute offers guidance for UK MCA and DG Shipping pathway programs, helping DNS cadets transition smoothly into international shipping careers.

c) HND Route (Higher National Diploma – After 12th / Diploma):

The HND (Higher National Diploma) route is ideal for students aiming for an international career in the Merchant Navy, especially under UK or foreign shipping registries.

Course Overview:

• Eligibility: 12th (PCM) with 50% aggregate OR Diploma in Mechanical / Electrical / Marine
• Age Limit: 17 to 25 years
• Duration: 2 Years (1 Year in India + 1 Year in UK)
• Affiliation: UK Maritime Colleges (MCA–Approved)
• Pathways: HND in Nautical Science / Marine Engineering

What You Learn:

• Advanced Navigation and Bridge Management (for Nautical Science)
• Marine Engineering, Thermodynamics, and Ship Systems (for Marine Engineering)
• Safety, Maritime Law, and Ship Operations
• Practical shipboard exposure during sea phase

Career Path:
After completing the HND course, students can directly progress to:

• Officer of the Watch (OOW) certificate level (UK MCA route)
• Join as Junior Deck / Engine Officer with international companies

Training Ship Varren Institute collaborates with UK-based maritime universities, offering global placement support, visa guidance, and seamless progression to officer ranks through the HND program.

📞 Toll-Free: 1800-890-1267

6) Top DG Shipping–Approved Institutes for Merchant Navy 2026:

Choosing the right training institute is one of the most important decisions for anyone aspiring to join the Merchant Navy 2026. A DG Shipping–approved institute ensures that your training meets international maritime standards and makes you eligible for shipboard placement worldwide. Below is a list of top institutes across India — including Training Ship Varren Institute, one of Maharashtra’s rising maritime academies preparing students for a successful seafaring career.

a) Top Merchant Navy Colleges in Maharashtra and India:

• Training Ship Varren Institute, Navi Mumbai

  • Offers DG Shipping–approved GP Rating, STCW, and UK HND programs.

  • Focus on international placement, hands-on training, and career counseling.

• Tolani Maritime Institute (TMI), Pune

  • Known for B.Sc. Nautical Science and Marine Engineering.

  • Collaborations with global shipping companies.

• Samundra Institute of Maritime Studies (SIMS), Lonavala

  • State-of-the-art simulators and excellent placement records.

• Anglo-Eastern Maritime Academy, Karjat

  • Offers DNS course leading to B.Sc. Nautical Science.

• International Maritime Institute (IMI), Mumbai

  • DG Shipping and IMU–affiliated programs in Nautical Science and Engineering.

These institutes are recognized by DG Shipping, Government of India, and follow the STCW 2010 Convention standards — ensuring global acceptance of their maritime certifications.

b) Training Ship Varren Admission Details:

Training Ship Varren Institute (TSV), located in Maharashtra, is among the new-generation maritime academies shaping the future of young seafarers. TSV is DG Shipping–approved and collaborates with UK MCA–linked maritime colleges to provide globally recognized training programs.

Courses Offered at Training Ship Varren:

• GP Rating Course (Pre-Sea Training) – 6 months

• HND in Nautical Science / Marine Engineering – UK-based program

• STCW Basic Safety Training – For all seafarers

• Certificate Courses & Workshops – For maritime skill enhancement

Admission Process:

1. Online Application: Fill out the Merchant Navy 2026 form at www.vmsshipping.in

2. Entrance Test / Interview: Conducted by TSV admission panel.

3. Medical Fitness: Must be certified fit by a DG Shipping–approved doctor.

4. Final Selection: Based on academic merit, medical fitness, and interview performance. 

Why Choose TSV:

• DG Shipping–approved training

• Industry-aligned curriculum

• International tie-ups with UK colleges

• 100% placement assistance after course completion

• Experienced maritime faculty and practical onboard training 

Training Ship Varren Institute continues to build a strong reputation for preparing skilled seafarers who meet global shipping standards. For Merchant Navy 2026 admissions, students are encouraged to apply early due to limited seat availability across courses. 

7) Conclusion — Your Journey to the Merchant Navy Starts Now!

The Merchant Navy isn’t just a career — it’s a lifestyle of adventure, discipline, and global opportunity. Whether you’ve completed your 10th or 12th, there’s a perfect route waiting for you — from GP Rating and Deck Cadet (DNS) programs to HND and Marine Engineering pathways. Each of these courses opens the door to high-paying international careers, professional growth, and a chance to travel the world while you earn.

At Training Ship Varren Institute (TSV), we take pride in being one of India’s leading DG Shipping–approved and UK-affiliated maritime training institutes. Our state-of-the-art campus, expert faculty, and global placement network ensure that every cadet is ready to sail into a rewarding career at sea.

If you’re ready to take the first step toward your Merchant Navy dream in 2026, don’t wait — admissions are now open for limited seats across GP Rating, DNS, HND, and Marine Engineering programs.

⚓ Apply Now or Contact Us Today

📞 Toll-Free: 1800-890-1267

Your Merchant Navy journey begins here — with the right training, the right guidance, and a world of opportunities ahead.

Join Training Ship Varren Institute today and set sail toward your future!