What is DNS in Merchant Navy?

If you’re planning a career in the merchant navy and often come across the term DNS in Merchant Navy, you’re in the right place. At Skillsstation, a reputed and trusted name often regarded as the best merchant navy coaching institute, we are committed to making complex maritime concepts easy to understand. One such concept aspiring seafarers must know thoroughly is DNS in Merchant Navy.

What is DNS in the Merchant Navy?

DNS in Merchant Navy stands for Diploma in Nautical Science, a foundational one-year residential course that leads to becoming a navigating officer in the merchant navy. The DNS in the Merchant Navy is approved by the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), Government of India, and serves as the entry point for class 12th science students who aspire to become Deck Officers.

This course combines theoretical learning with hands-on training and prepares candidates for a career that demands discipline, technical expertise, and physical fitness. The DNS in Merchant Navy is a pre-sea training course that ends with a B.Sc. (Nautical Science) degree after further sea service and exams.

Who is Eligible for DNS in the Merchant Navy?

To enrol in this program, candidates must meet the following eligibility criteria:

Completed 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) with a minimum of 60%.
Must have scored at least 50% marks in English either in Class 10 or 12.
It should be medically fit as per DGS standards.
The age should be between 17 to 25 years.

These criteria are set to ensure that only serious and capable students enter the DNS in Merchant Navy field. At Skillsstation, the best merchant navy coaching institute, we offer full guidance to help candidates meet these eligibility standards.

Course Structure of DNS in Merchant Navy

The structure is as follows:

First Year – Classroom training in a maritime institute.
Next 18 Months – Sea-time training on board merchant vessels.
Post-Sea Exams – Appear for Second Mate exams after completion of sea-time.

This structured approach ensures that these candidates receive both academic grounding and practical shipboard experience.

Career Path After DNS in Merchant Navy

After completing this, the journey continues with:

Second Mate (FG) license from the Maritime Administration
Promotion to Chief Officer
Eventually becoming a Captain (Master Mariner)

Thus, this program not only opens the door to global travel and adventure but also offers a structured, high-paying career progression.

Why DNS in Merchant Navy is a Preferred Choice?

There are many maritime training paths, This is popular because:

It’s the shortest route to becoming a deck officer.
It includes onboard training early in the career.
It offers a job-ready profile upon successful course completion.
It gives a full degree later (B.Sc. in Nautical Science) along with professional growth.

At Skillsstation, known as the best merchant navy coaching institute, we prepare students with mock interviews, IMU-CET preparation, and career counselling.

Important Institutes Offering DNS in Merchant Navy

Some of the top institutes offering these programs are:

dnTolani Maritime Institute
Anglo-Eastern Maritime Academy
Great Eastern Institute of Maritime Studies
Samundra Institute of Maritime Studies

Getting into these institutions is competitive, and that’s where Skillsstation, the best merchant navy coaching institute, supports students with rigorous test preparation and guidance.

DNS in Merchant Navy: Duration, Fees, and Placement

Duration: 1 year classroom + 18 months sea-time
Average Course Fee: ₹5–8 lakhs
Placement: Many institutes have tie-ups with shipping companies for onboard training

This often leads to pre-placement offers or sponsorships by companies like Maersk, MSC, and Anglo-Eastern.

Is DNS in Merchant Navy a Good Career Choice?

Attractive salary packages
Global travel opportunities
High respect and responsibility
Quick career growth

However, it demands mental and physical endurance, commitment, and adaptability to different time zones, cultures, and weather conditions.

Conclusion

The DNS in Merchant Navy is an excellent pathway for students aiming to build a rewarding career at sea. From eligibility and course structure to career advancement and placements, it provides a solid framework for success in the maritime industry. To ensure you’re fully prepared for every stage of the process, trust Skillsstation, widely regarded as the best merchant navy coaching institute, to guide you from entrance exam prep to final placement. Your career in the merchant navy begins here, with DNS in the Merchant Navy and Skillsstation by your side.

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.

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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.