GP Rating Course: A Complete Guide to Starting Your Career in the Merchant Navy

Job Description

The Merchant Navy has long been a dream career for individuals seeking adventure, travel, and a stable income. While many think of officers and engineers when it comes to seafaring careers, a lesser-known but equally vital pathway is through the GP Rating Course . Whether you’re a 10th pass student or someone looking to enter a respected and high-paying industry without a college degree, the GP Rating Course offers an ideal entry point. In this blog, we’ll explore everything you need to know—from eligibility to salary expectations—so you can make an informed decision about your future at sea. Read Also: Top 20 Engineering Colleges in Hyderabad: A Complete Guide for 2025 What is the GP Rating Course? The GP Rating (General Purpose Rating) Course is a pre-sea training program that prepares candidates to work as deck and engine crew in the Merchant Navy . The course is approved by the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), Government of India . Key Highlights Duration: 6 months (pre-sea training) Certification: DGS-approved certificate Job Role: Deck Crew or Engine Room Crew Progression: Can rise to become officers through internal exams and experience This course allows candidates to work onboard cargo ships, oil tankers, container ships, and more under international shipping companies. Why Choose the GP Rating Course? There are several compelling reasons to pursue a GP Rating Course: Early Entry into the Merchant Navy Start your career as early as after 10th standard. High Salary Potential Even entry-level jobs offer good income, and it grows with rank and experience. Career Growth From ordinary seaman (OS) to bosun and eventually officer ranks. Global Exposure Travel across the world and experience different cultures. Job Security Demand for trained seafarers is consistently high in the global shipping industry. Eligibility Criteria for GP Rating Course Before applying for a GP Rating course, ensure that you meet the following eligibility conditions: Educational Qualification Minimum: Pass in 10th standard from a recognized board. Subjects: English, Mathematics, and Science preferred. Age Limit Minimum: 17.5 years Maximum: 25 years (varies slightly with institutes) Medical Fitness Vision: 6/6 in each eye (without visual aids) No color blindness Must clear a DGS-approved medical test Physical Standards Minimum height: 157 cm Weight: Proportionate to height Physically fit for sea service as per DG Shipping norms Top Institutes Offering GP Rating Course in India Many maritime training institutes across India offer the GP Rating Course. It’s crucial to choose a DGS-approved institute to ensure placement opportunities and certification validity. Institute Name Location Notable Features HIMT College Chennai DGS approved, placement support TS Rahman Mumbai Legacy Institute, good alumni base AMET University Chennai International collaborations Samundra Institute Lonavala Advanced simulators and training IMI Noida Noida Well-equipped training labs BP Marine Academy Navi Mumbai Affordable and reputed Always check the latest DGS-approved list on the DG Shipping website. Course Curriculum and Training The GP Rating Course is designed to prepare candidates for both deck and engine departments . Academic Subjects Seamanship Marine Engineering Basic Navigation Ship Familiarization Maritime Law and Safety Practical Training Fire Fighting Life Saving Techniques Rope Work and Knots Lifeboat Operation Emergency Drills Engine Room Tools & Equipment Handling STCW Training Included Personal Survival Techniques (PST) Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (FPFF) Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities (PSSR) Elementary First Aid (EFA) Career Path After GP Rating Course After completing the course and joining a vessel, you typically begin your career as an Ordinary Seaman (OS) or Wiper . Promotion Path (Deck Side) Ordinary Seaman (OS) Able Seaman (AB) Bosun Third Officer (with further studies) Second Officer Chief Officer Captain (Master Mariner) Promotion Path (Engine Side) Wiper Oiler Motorman Fourth Engineer (with further studies) Third Engineer Second Engineer Chief Engineer To become an officer, additional exams like NCV or the FG Certificate of Competency (CoC) must be passed. Read Also: Top 10 Engineering Colleges in Tamil Nadu: Rankings and Admission Details Salary After GP Rating Course The merchant navy offers one of the most lucrative pay scales for freshers and experienced professionals. Rank Salary Range (Monthly) Ordinary Seaman / Wiper ₹25,000 – ₹50,000 Able Seaman / Oiler ₹60,000 – ₹80,000 Bosun ₹90,000 – ₹1,20,000 Officer (Deck/Engine) ₹1,50,000 – ₹5,00,000 Note: Salaries vary based on ship type, company, and experience. Life on Board After GP Rating Course Life aboard a ship is challenging yet rewarding. Work Conditions 8–12 hours of daily duty Rotational shifts Isolated but well-equipped environment High safety standards Benefits Free accommodation and meals Tax-free income (if sailing 183+ days/year) Health and travel insurance Multinational work environment How To Apply For The GP Rating Course Follow these steps to secure admission: Step-by-Step Guide Research Institutes: Check the DGS-approved list. Apply Online/Offline: Fill out application forms via the institute’s website. Attend Counseling/Interview: Shortlisted candidates may be called. Undergo Medical Test: Conducted by a DGS-approved doctor. Document Submission: 10th/12th marksheet Birth certificate Passport/Aadhar card Medical certificate Pay Fees: Usually ranges between ₹1.5 to ₹3 lakhs for the full course. Documents Required Before admission and joining, keep these ready: 10th/12th Marksheet Transfer Certificate Passport-sized photos Birth Certificate Passport (recommended for joining the ship) DGS-approved Medical Certificate Police Clearance Certificate Conclusion The GP Rating Course is a gateway for students, especially those from modest academic backgrounds, to enter a prestigious and financially rewarding profession. With structured training, international exposure, and career growth, the Merchant Navy offers a life of dignity, adventure, and prosperity. Whether you want to work in the deck or engine department, the GP Rating Course can help you set sail on a successful maritime career. So if you’re ready for a life less ordinary, get your sea legs and start your journey today. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) What is the duration of the GP Rating course? The GP Rating course is typically a 6-month pre-sea training program. Can a 10th pass student join the GP Rating course? Yes, the minimum educational qualification is 10th pass from a recognized board. Is the GP Rating course approved by the Indian government? Yes, it must be approved by the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) . What is the starting salary after GP Rating? Freshers can expect a monthly salary of ₹25,000 to ₹50,000 , depending on the shipping company. What is the age limit for applying for the GP Rating? You must be between 17.5 and 25 years old at the time of admission. Is a passport necessary for the course? A passport is not mandatory for admission, but is required for ship joining . Can women apply for the GP Rating course? Yes, but the number of institutes accepting female candidates may be limited. Check before applying. What is the difference between GP Rating and DNS? GP Rating is for crew-level roles, while DNS (Diploma in Nautical Science) is for officer-level positions. Can I become an officer after GP Rating? Yes, with experience and further studies , you can appear for exams to become a Deck or Engine Officer. Are there job guarantees after completing the GP Rating course? Some institutes offer placement assistance , but jobs are not guaranteed . Performance and institute reputation play a key role. 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