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  • Course Duration : 1 Year

  • Approved by : D.G. Shipping Govt.Of India Approval No: TR/A/02/2023

  • Affiliated by : Indian Maritime University (IMU)

    • Approval Letter No: IMU-HQ/R/03/07/2022-HIMT

  • Department : Deck

  • Entrance Test : IMU-CET

  • Course Commencement: August 2026 (Applications Opening Soon)
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Diploma in Nautical Science is a comprehensive 1-year residential program that trains students in the fundamentals of marine navigation, seamanship, and safety management. Upon successful completion of the program, graduates are eligible to take the examinations required for obtaining a Certificate of Competency (CoC) as a Deck Officer in the merchant navy. This certificate is issued by the Directorate General of Shipping, Government of India, and is recognized internationally.

ELIGIBILITY

ACADEMIC QUALIFICATION AGE LIMIT MEDICAL EXAMINATION
10+2/equivalent (PCM Average-Minimum 60%) with minimum of 50% marks in English subject in 10th/12th Examination.


B.Sc. in Physics, Mathematics, Chemistry or Electronics with Physics as individual subject in one of the years, with an average of not less than 55% of the marks in the final year.


B.E./B.Tech Degree from IIT or from a college recognised by AICTE with an average of not less than 50% of the marks in the final year.

Note: The candidate should have a minimum of 50% marks in English subject in 10th/12th/Degree Examinations.

Marital status – Unmarried 		Minimum Age Limit: 17 Years.

Maximum Age Limit:
Male:
General-25 years, OBC (NCL) – 28 years, (SC/ST-30 years)

Female:
General-27 years, OBC (NCL) – 30 years (SC/ST-32 years)

Note: The reference date for calculation of the age will be 20th Jan 2026.

Click Here for Age Calculator 		Eye-Sight:
Unaided vision: 1.0*(6/6) in better eye and 0.67*(6/9) in another eye.

Eye Health:
No eye conditions, full eye movement, normal pupil response, excellent binocular vision. No color blindness, tested with Ishihara Chart.

Physical Fitness:
Candidates must be medically fit including eye sight and hearing as prescribed in the Merchant Shipping (Medical Examination) Rules, 2000, as amended, and need to produce a certificate of medical fitness issued by D.G. Shipping Approved Doctor.

Click Here to find the list of all D.G.Shipping Approved Doctors

10+2/equivalent (PCM Average-Minimum 60%) with minimum of 50% marks in English subject in 10th/12th Examination.

B.Sc. in Physics, Mathematics, Chemistry or Electronics with Physics as individual subject in one of the years, with an average of not less than 55% of the marks in the final year.

B.E./B.Tech Degree from IIT or from a college recognised by AICTE with an average of not less than 50% of the marks in the final year.

Note:
The candidate should have a minimum of 50% marks in English subject in 10th/12th/Degree Examinations.

Marital status – Unmarried

Minimum Age Limit: 17 Years.

Maximum Age Limit:

Male:
General-25 years, OBC (NCL) – 28 years, (SC/ST-30 years)

Female:
General-27 years, OBC (NCL) – 30 years (SC/ST-32 years)

Note:
The reference date for calculation of the age will be 20th Jan 2026.

Click Here to find Age Calculator

Eye-Sight:
Unaided vision: 1.0*(6/6) in better eye and 0.67*(6/9) in another eye.

Eye Health:
No eye conditions, full eye movement, normal pupil response, excellent binocular vision. No color blindness, tested with Ishihara Chart.

Physical Fitness:
Candidates must be medically fit including eye sight and hearing as prescribed in the Merchant Shipping (Medical Examination) Rules, 2000, as amended, and need to produce a certificate of medical fitness issued by D.G. Shipping Approved Doctor.

Click Here to find the list of all D.G.Shipping Approved Doctors

IMU - Common Entrance Test (IMU-CET) Schedule 2026-27

IMUCET is an All India Level Entrance exam. Candidate should apply for both HIMT & IMU-CET, and hold an IMUCET Rank to get their admission for the course.

EVENT DATE
Date of Commencement of Online Registration 06 February 2026
Last date for Online Registration 24 April 2026
Online City Selection start date for CET-26 04 May 2026
Online City Selection end date for CET-26 10 May 2026
Date of IMU-CET Examination 24 May 2026 (Sunday)
Date of Commencement of Programmes 01 August 2026
To know the detailed eligibility conditions

Note: The above dates are tentative and subject to change based on IMU directives.

FEE STRUCTURE

PARTICULARSFEE (Rs)
Application Fee999/-
Total Fees*4,95,000/-
Caution Deposit (Refundable)20,000/-

*Fees include Course Fees, Accommodation, Food, Workshops, Laboratory, Library & Uniform.

ADMISSION PROCESS

Step 1

Registration

Step 2

Application Fee
Payment

Step 3

Online Written Exam
(AI Proctored Exam)

Step 4

Candidates who clear Written Exam will be
called for Online Interview.

Step 5

Shortlisted Candidates to complete their Admission Formalities
(Medicals, Document Submission, Fees)

Step 6

Start your Merchant
Navy Career

For DNS Course with Sponsorship

Withdrawal Period Cancellation Fee (Rs)
On or before 20th Dec 2025 Rs. 10,000/-
31st Dec 2025 Onwards No Refund of Fees

Note:

  • Examination Fees & yearly IMU Programme Fees are additional and have to be paid by the candidate to Indian Maritime University (IMU).
  • Sponsorship Letter by a RPSL Company is mandatory for the course.
  • The Application Fee paid is non-refundable.
  • ⁠As per D. G. Shipping Guidelines, passport is mandatory to join the course.
  • Caution Deposits are refundable at the end of the course after adjustments of laundry charges & damages, breakages etc., if any.
  • Fees paid is forfeited if withdrawn from the Course after the course commencement.
  • Admissions are subject to meeting the mandatory requirement of course.
  • ⁠All fees can be paid online. We offer Net Banking, UPI, Credit Card, and Debit Card. ⁠Cash/Cheque payments are not entertained.

Programme Structure

Semester I

S. No Theory Practical Laboratories/Workshops
1 Applied Mathematics Applied Sciences Lab
2 Applied Sciences Computer Lab
3 Ship Construction & Ship Stability I Workshop Practices
4 Navigation I: Navigation & Chartwork Seamanship Lab
5 Navigation II: Bridge Equipment, Watchkeeping & Meteorology
6 Cargo Handling, Stowage and Seamanship I
7 English & Human Factors

Semester II

S. No Theory Practical Laboratories/Workshops
1 Navigation III: Navigation & Chartwork Communicative English Lab
2 Navigation IV: Advanced Bridge Equip, W/keeping and Meteorology Workshop Practices & Seamanship
3 Cargo Handling, Stowage and Seamanship II Navigation Laboratory
4 Ship Construction & Ship Stability II
5 MARPOL & Marine Engineering Knowledge
6 Emergencies, Maritime Communication & Commercial Shipping

CAREER PATH

Our Facilities

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OVERVIEW

The Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS) is a one-year professional program designed for students who aspire to begin a seafaring career in the deck department of the Merchant Navy. This course is ideal for candidates who have completed their higher secondary education with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics as their core educational qualification and who meet the medical standards required for sea service. Conducted in IMU affiliated maritime colleges, the program blends academic instruction in navigation, seamanship, meteorology, and naval architecture fundamentals with structured pre-sea training. As a pathway closely aligned with B.Sc. Nautical Science progression, it enables cadets to transition into onboard training and subsequently upgrade their certification through sea time and competency examinations.

The DNS Nautical Science pathway is particularly suited for students seeking focused one-year programs that lead directly to onboard career paths in global shipping. Upon completion of the pre-sea phase, cadets join vessels for structured training, eventually advancing toward officer ranks through examinations conducted by maritime authorities. When evaluating nautical science colleges, applicants should carefully review institutional approvals, training facilities, placement support, and the diploma in nautical science course fees structure. Candidates who are motivated to build a disciplined, technically demanding, and internationally oriented maritime career can apply now to secure admission in this industry-oriented diploma program.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Premium FAQ
Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS) is a pre-sea training program that prepares students to become Deck Officers in the Merchant Navy. It focuses on navigation, seamanship, ship operations, and maritime safety as per DG Shipping regulations. After completion and sea training, candidates progress toward officer certification.
The DNS course duration is typically 1 year of residential pre-sea training at DG Shipping approved maritime institute like HIMT College. This is followed by onboard sea training as a Deck Cadet on merchant ships. The combined training pathway leads to eligibility for officer examinations.
DNS is a 1-year diploma leading quickly to sea training, while B.Sc Nautical Science is a 3-year academic degree program. DNS cadets start sailing earlier and complete degree requirements later through distance learning. Both pathways ultimately lead to Deck Officer Certification in the Merchant Navy.
Students who want a fast-track entry into a Merchant Navy deck officer career should choose DNS. It suits candidates who enjoy travel, technical operations, discipline, and a sea-going lifestyle. Those seeking early earning potential and international exposure benefit most from this course.
DNS and Marine Engineering lead to different career paths—Deck Department versus Engine Department. DNS focuses on navigation and ship command, while Marine Engineering focuses on machinery and propulsion systems. The better option depends on whether a student prefers leadership/navigation roles or technical engineering operations.
DNS subjects include navigation, seamanship, maritime communication, cargo handling, ship stability, meteorology, collision regulations, and maritime safety. Practical training, such as firefighting, survival techniques, and bridge simulator exercises are also included. The curriculum follows international STCW standards.
Yes, sponsorship from a shipping company is mandatory for admission into the Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS) course. Sponsorship ensures that the candidate will receive onboard sea training as a Deck Cadet after completing the pre-sea program. Since sea time is essential for certification and career progression, most DG Shipping–approved institutes admit only sponsored candidates.
Candidates must have completed 12th standard with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) from a recognized board. They must also meet medical fitness standards prescribed by DG Shipping. Proficiency in English is essential for shipboard communication.
Yes, PCM (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics) in 12th is mandatory for DNS admission. These subjects provide the scientific foundation required for navigation, ship stability, and maritime operations. Non-PCM students are not eligible for this course.
Most institutes require at least 60% aggregate in PCM subjects in 12th. Some relaxation may apply depending on admission policies and sponsorship criteria. Higher marks improve chances of selection by reputed shipping companies.
Yes, English is compulsory because it is the international working language at sea. Candidates usually need a minimum of 50% marks in English in 10th or 12th. Strong communication skills are essential for safety and coordination on board ships.
The typical age limit for DNS admission is between 17 and 25 years for general category candidates. Age relaxations may apply for reserved categories as per government norms. Candidates must also be medically fit for sea service.
Yes, IMU-CET (Indian Maritime University Common Entrance Test) is required for admission into IMU-affiliated DNS institutes. Some sponsored seats may follow additional company selection procedures. Qualifying IMU-CET strengthens admission prospects.
IMU affiliation ensures that the DNS course follows standardized academic and training regulations. It enables students to pursue the B.Sc. Nautical Science degree pathway after sea training. Most reputed maritime institutes in India maintain IMU affiliation.
Yes, eyesight standards are strict because navigation duties demand precise visual acuity. Candidates must meet DG Shipping medical norms, including limits on refractive error and normal colour vision. Colour blindness is not permitted for deck officers.
Top DNS colleges are those approved by DG Shipping, affiliated with IMU, and known for strong placement records. HIMT College in Kalpakkam (near Chennai), Tamil Nadu, is widely recognized for its modern infrastructure, experienced faculty, ship-in-campus training, and industry sponsorships. Choosing a reputed institute is critical for career success.
DG Shipping approval is an authorization from the Directorate General of Shipping, Government of India, to conduct maritime training. It ensures that institutes meet safety, infrastructure, and faculty standards required for Merchant Navy education. Without this approval, a course is not valid for sea service.
Some maritime institutes and state or central schemes offer scholarships based on merit, financial need, or category reservations. Sponsoring companies may also provide financial assistance. HIMT provides a special discount to female students to encourage their involvement in the Merchant Navy.
Yes, most nationalized and private banks in India provide education loans for DNS courses. Loans typically cover tuition fees, hostel charges, and training expenses. Approval depends on the institute's recognition and the applicant’s financial profile.
After completing the pre-sea DNS course, candidates join ships as Deck Cadets for onboard training. They accumulate required sea time and complete academic modules. This leads to eligibility for Second Mate (FG) certification exams.
Sea training usually lasts about 18 months as a Deck Cadet, depending on company requirements and sailing schedules. During this period, cadets gain practical experience in navigation, cargo operations, and ship management. Completion of sea time is mandatory for officer exams.
A Deck Cadet assists senior officers in navigation watch, cargo handling, maintenance of deck equipment, and safety drills. It is a training rank focused on learning ship operations. Cadets gradually prepare for officer responsibilities.
Sponsorship is obtained by clearing selection processes conducted by shipping companies, including tests, interviews, and medical examinations. Many institutes facilitate campus recruitment by reputed companies. Early sponsorship improves job security after training.
Major international and Indian shipping companies sponsor DNS cadets based on manpower needs. These include tanker, container, bulk carrier, and offshore operators. Sponsorship ensures onboard training opportunities and career progression.
During sea training, Deck Cadets typically earn a stipend ranging from USD 300 to 800 per month, depending on the company and vessel type. Salaries increase significantly after obtaining officer certification. Merchant Navy pay is tax-efficient for international voyages.
A Ship Captain (Master Mariner) can earn between USD 10,000 and 15,000 per month or more on international vessels. Salary depends on experience, ship type, and company reputation. It is one of the highest-paid maritime positions.
Becoming a Captain typically takes about 10 to 15 years of sea service and passing successive competency exams. Officers progress through ranks such as Third Officer, Second Officer, and Chief Officer. Continuous training and experience are essential.
Yes, many professionals spend their entire working life in the Merchant Navy. Others transition to shore-based maritime roles such as port management, shipping companies, or maritime training institutes. The career offers long-term growth and global opportunities.
Yes, the Merchant Navy is increasingly welcoming women in deck and engineering roles. Modern ships provide safe working environments and equal career opportunities. Many women serve successfully as officers and captains worldwide.
Yes, women who meet eligibility and medical standards can join DNS courses. Several maritime institutes actively encourage female candidates. The industry values diversity and professionalism regardless of gender.