What Is Merchant Navy? High Salary, Bright Future

What is Merchant Navy is a common question among students seeking adventurous, high-paying, and globally recognized careers. The merchant navy plays a crucial role in international trade by transporting goods across the seas. It offers various technical and non-technical career options for students from science and engineering backgrounds.

At SkillsStation, we aim to simplify your journey toward a rewarding career in the maritime industry. From eligibility and salary to preparation and placement support, we cover everything you need to know to succeed in the field of merchant navy.

Introduction: What is Merchant Navy?

The merchant navy is a commercial fleet that deals with transporting cargo and passengers over the sea. It is different from a country’s naval force, as it is not involved in defense but plays a vital part in international trade. This industry comprises a wide range of vessels like oil tankers, container ships, bulk carriers, and cruise liners.

If you’re wondering what is merchant navy and why it’s a preferred career choice, consider its global reach, tax-free salary (for NRIs), and structured career progression. Jobs range from engine room duties to navigation, electrical operations, and onboard hospitality.

Scope and Departments in the Merchant Navy

The merchant navy is divided into three primary departments:

1. Deck Department

Responsible for navigation, cargo handling, and safety. Positions include Deck Cadet, Second Officer, and Captain.

2. Engine Department

Handles engine operation and maintenance. Roles range from Junior Engineer to Chief Engineer.

3. Electro-Technical Department

Manages electrical and electronic systems on board. Positions include ETOs and maintenance technicians.

Knowing what is merchant navy is also means understanding how each department contributes to the smooth operation of a ship at sea.

Merchant Navy Qualification Criteria

To build a career in this field, understanding merchant navy qualifications is critical:

For Officer-Level Courses:

10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) – Minimum 60%
English – Minimum 50% in Class 10 or 12
Age Limit – 17 to 25 years (varies slightly)
Must pass a medical fitness test approved by DG Shipping

For GP Rating (Entry-Level Jobs):

Minimum 10th pass with 40%
Age Limit – 17 to 25 years
Basic knowledge of English and science preferred

Clearing the above eligibility ensures you are ready for entrance tests like IMU-CET or company-sponsored exams, leading to your admission to DG Shipping-approved institutes.

Career Progression in the Merchant Navy

One of the biggest reasons students inquire about what is merchant navy is the clear promotion hierarchy. With time, experience, and exams, candidates can rise through the ranks quickly:

Deck Side: Deck Cadet → Third Officer → Second Officer → Chief Officer → Captain
Engine Side: Junior Engineer → Fourth Engineer → Second Engineer → Chief Engineer

This structured progression, along with onboard training, ensures continuous career development.

Merchant Navy Salary: What to Expect

Merchant Navy Salary is a major attraction for students. Here’s an overview of average earnings by rank:

Rank / Position	Approximate Salary (INR/month)
Deck Cadet / Trainee	₹25,000 – ₹50,000
Second Officer	₹1.5 – ₹2.5 lakhs
Chief Engineer / Captain	₹6 – ₹12 lakhs
GP Rating	₹20,000 – ₹40,000

Salaries are usually tax-free if you’re sailing for more than 182 days in a financial year (NRI status). In addition, you may receive perks like international travel, insurance, and holiday leaves.

How to Get into the Merchant Navy?

Once you’ve understood what is merchant navy, the next step is knowing how to enter the field:

1. Appear for IMU-CET

The Indian Maritime University Common Entrance Test is the most common route to join reputed colleges.

2. Company Sponsorship

Leading shipping companies conduct their entrance exams and sponsor students through their training programs. This also ensures job placement after course completion.

3. Direct Admission to DG-Approved Institutes

Some private institutes conduct their admission process. Always verify DG Shipping approval to avoid scams.

Knowing what is merchant navy is incomplete without understanding how to apply it correctly through verified and reputable sources.

Interview Tips for the Merchant Navy

Getting selected by top companies or institutes often requires clearing a personal interview. Here are some effective interview tips for the merchant navy:

Know Your Basics: Brush up on subjects like physics, mathematics, and marine terminology.
Dress Formally: Appearance and discipline matter in this field.
Be Honest & Confident: Clearly explain why you want to join the merchant navy.
Know the Industry: Stay updated with global maritime news and industry challenges.
Practice Mock Interviews: These help build confidence and reduce anxiety.

Following these tips increases your chances of selection in interviews after you clear written tests or IMU-CET.

Life at Sea: What to Expect

A career at sea offers adventure, responsibility, and growth. However, it also demands mental and physical endurance. Life onboard means working in shifts, dealing with isolation, and adapting to different climates and time zones.

Those who genuinely understand what is merchant navy know that it’s a lifestyle, not just a job. The experience builds discipline, leadership, and adaptability—skills that are valuable even beyond shipping.

Documents Required for Admission & Recruitment

Here’s a checklist of essential documents:

10th and 12th mark sheets
Passport-size photos
Birth certificate
Passport (valid for at least 1 year)
Medical fitness certificate (from DG Shipping-approved doctor)
Police clearance certificate (in some cases)

Ensure all documents are verified and properly scanned when applying through any mode of recruitment.

Conclusion

If you’re serious about a high-paying, adventurous, and globally respected career, understanding what is merchant navy is the first step. This industry is more than just ships—it’s about responsibility, professionalism, and long-term growth. To support your maritime dreams, SkillsStation provides up-to-date resources, test prep, and career counseling. Whether you’re preparing for IMU-CET or seeking the best navy academy in Dehradun, we’re here to help guide your journey.

FAQs on What is Merchant Navy?

Q1: Is the merchant navy part of the military?

No. The merchant navy is purely commercial and unrelated to military/naval defense operations.

Q2: Can females join the merchant navy?

Yes, women can apply for officer-level courses and roles if they meet the eligibility and medical criteria.

Q3: Do you need to know swimming to join?

While not mandatory during admission, basic swimming is often taught during training for safety reasons.

Q4: How long are contracts in the merchant navy?

Typically 6–9 months, depending on the shipping company and rank.

Q5: Is food and accommodation free on board?

Yes. The employer provides food, accommodation, and insurance when you’re onboard.

Rayyan Alam

11:55 27 Jun 24

I heard about Skill Station from a senior and decided to join. When I got to Dehradun, I was thrilled with the great faculty and environment. Amrinder Sir is amazing – his communication skills, style, and personality are top-notch. He's more than a teacher; he's like a friend, brother, and mentor. Joining Skill Station was the best decision I made. Unlike other places, Sir helps you until you get selected. Last year, I achieved a 5452 rank in IMUCET but didn't get any company sponsorship. However, Sir didn't leave me. He took care of us until we were selected and continued to guide us even after our selection. This year, with his guidance, I improved to a 4600 rank in IMUCET and got sponsored by ESM. Skill Station feels like a family. Thank you, Sir!

Abhinav Garwal

10:40 27 Jun 24

Thank you Team Skills Station!For always guiding me.For not only making a relationship as a teacher-student but also to make a bond like a family members.Special thank to Amrinder Sir for not only helping and guiding us but also to treat us like an elder brother in our all the tough and difficult situation.❤️Thank you to all the members of Skills Station team.- Abhinav Garwal

aakarsh negi

08:22 27 Jun 24

One of the best institutes I have seen that not only has good results but also great management. When I joined this institute, I was a bit shy and was not able to speak in public, but now my personality has completely changed. I am confident and bold, and now I like to socialize even more. Because of the teachers and their guidance, I was able to score a good rank in IMU-CET and got sponsored by Anglo.

Kirti Mishra

08:21 27 Jun 24

I'm a student of skill station by Amrinder sir , I'm a type of student who scared to talk in front of crowd and have a lack of confidence , but after joining skill station family Amrinder sir taught me and helped me in every single step I improved my personality . Our faculties present over there are very supportive , friendly and kind hearted they always present there to help us wherever we need they motivate us to keep growing.One more thing from my side Amrinder sir's classes is not just for interview's it'll always help you further in your life how to stay , how to adjust and how to grow with limited resources. With skill station family I learnt a lot of things .Thanks skill station family specially a great personality Amrinder sir 🙏

ARYAN KAMRA

08:14 27 Jun 24

Skills Station Is Best academy For The preparation of merchant Navy , all the teachers Are very helpful and Hardworking they have years of experience joining skills station is one of my best decision I have ever taken in my life, Specially Amrinder Sir Who helped us in every situation we have faced during Our exams or interviews thank You to all the whole team of Skills Station Family because of you I Have secured Good Rank in Imucet I highly recommend new Comers please join Skills Station.

Deepika Rohilla

07:01 26 Jun 24

This is the best institute for Merchant Navy and Communication skills. Amrinder Sir helped me to gain confidence to clear the interviews. He always focuses to develop our personality. I am more confidant and more skillful now.