Join thousands of students who launched their Merchant Navy career with our expert guidance. Get personalised counselling for IMU CET, course selection, and admissions at top DG Shipping approved institutes.
The Merchant Navy is the world's commercial shipping industry — a global fleet of vessels that carries over 90% of international trade. It is NOT a defence force. It's a thriving civilian industry where trained professionals operate cargo ships, tankers, container vessels, cruise liners, and offshore platforms.
For Indian students, it offers a rare combination: high salaries in foreign currency, world travel, rapid career growth, and the pride of serving an industry that quite literally keeps the world running.
| Feature | Merchant Navy | Indian Navy |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Commercial Trade | National Defence |
| Type | Civilian Career | Military Service |
| Salary | ₹25K–₹15L/month | ₹56K–₹2.5L/month |
| Entry Qualification | 10th / 12th PCM | 12th PCM (NDA/CDS) |
| Contract Style | 4–6 months onboard | Full-time service |
| Tax on Income | Tax-Free* | Taxable |
*Tax exemption applicable for NRI status (183+ days outside India)
From post-10th entry to degree programs — we help you pick the right course based on your qualification, budget, and career goals.
Our maritime experts will analyse your profile and recommend the best course for you — absolutely free.
Get Free Guidance →Thousands of Indian students every year are choosing the Merchant Navy over conventional careers. Here's why it makes sense.
Earn ₹1.5–15 lakhs per month depending on rank. Most salaries are paid in USD and are tax-free for qualifying Indian seafarers — a massive financial advantage.
Visit iconic ports in Singapore, Greece, Japan, UK, Dubai, and 50+ countries — all while being paid. Travel becomes a job perk, not a luxury expense.
A structured promotion path takes a cadet to Captain or Chief Engineer in just 8–12 years. Performance-driven advancement is clear and meritocratic.
Work 4–6 months onboard, then enjoy 2–4 months of paid leave. More quality family time compared to traditional 5-day work week jobs.
Build exceptional leadership, teamwork, discipline, and decision-making skills. Seafarers are highly respected professionals worldwide.
Shipping is a $14 trillion global industry. Over 90% of world trade moves by sea — making trained seafarers always in demand globally.
Salaries are some of the best in the world — paid in USD with minimal expenses onboard.
The Indian Maritime University Common Entrance Test (IMU CET) is the primary entrance exam for admission to B.Sc. Nautical Science, DNS, and B.Tech Marine Engineering programs at IMU-affiliated colleges across India.
Real stories from students who used our counselling to build successful maritime careers.
"I was confused between DNS and B.Sc. Nautical Science. The counsellors here explained everything clearly and helped me get admitted to a great institute. Now I'm sailing on a container ship!"
"As a girl, I had many doubts about Merchant Navy. MerchantNavyCourses.co.in gave me all the right information and encouraged me. I cleared IMU CET on the first attempt!"
"After my 10th results, I didn't know this career existed. The team showed me the GP Rating path. Within 8 months, I was earning ₹40,000/month on a ship. Best decision!"
The Merchant Navy operates on diverse vessel types — each with unique work environments, salary levels, and operational requirements.
Talk to our expert counsellors today. We'll analyse your profile and recommend the best course and college — completely free.
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