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  • Course Duration: 6 Months

  • Approved by : D.G. Shipping Govt.Of India. Approval No: TR/A/25/2003

  • Department : Engine / Deck

  • Entrance Test : HIMT (Online)

  • Course Commencement: July 2026 (Applications Open)
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GP Rating is a Six-month Pre-Sea Training Program approved by the Directorate General of Shipping, Ministry of Shipping, Government of India. The training comprises of theoretical and Practical study of General Ship Knowledge and Marine Engineering Knowledge which allows the successful trainees to join the merchant shipping in the Deck or Engineering Department as a Trainee GP Rating. They perform tasks related to Seamanship, Cargo Handling, Maintenance work on deck, Operation and Maintenance of Machinery.

ELIGIBILITY

ACADEMIC QUALIFICATION AGE LIMIT MEDICAL EXAMINATION
For 10th Std Pass:

• Above 40% aggregate in 10th standard with Science and Math’s as subjects.

• Minimum of 40% marks in English in 10th standard

• Passed the 10th Std from a recognized board.


For ITI Course Pass:

• Must complete a 2-year ITI* Course from a Govt. approved institute.

• Minimum 50% aggregate marks in the final year.

• Minimum of 40% in English in 10th standard

*ITI trades:1. Fitter 2. Machinist 3. Marine Fitter 4. Motor Mechanic 5. Turner 6. Vessel Navigator 7. Instrument Mechanic 8. Electronic Mechanic 9. Electrician 10. Mechanic Industrial Electronics 11. Mechanic A/C 12. Mechanic Motor Vehicle 13. Mechanical Draughtsman 14. Welder 		Minimum Age Limit: 17.5 Years.

Maximum 24 years of age at the time of commencement of the course.

Click Here for Age Calculator 		Eye-Sight:
Minimum Unaided Vision 6/6

Eye Health:
No eye conditions, full eye movement, normal pupil response, good binocular vision. No Color blindness and Color vision 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

For 10th Std Pass:


• Above 40% aggregate in 10th standard with Science and Math’s as subjects.

• Minimum of 40% marks in English in 10th standard

• Passed the 10th Std from a recognized board.



For ITI Course Pass:


• Must complete a 2-year ITI* Course from a Govt. approved institute.

• Minimum 50% aggregate marks in the final year.

• Minimum of 40% in English in 10th standard

*ITI trades:1. Fitter 2. Machinist 3. Marine Fitter 4. Motor Mechanic 5. Turner 6. Vessel Navigator 7. Instrument Mechanic 8. Electronic Mechanic 9. Electrician 10. Mechanic Industrial Electronics 11. Mechanic A/C 12. Mechanic Motor Vehicle 13. Mechanical Draughtsman 14. Welder

Minimum Age Limit: 17.5 Years.

Maximum 24 years of age at the time of commencement of the course.

Click Here to find Age Calculator

Eye-Sight:
Minimum Unaided Vision 6/6

Eye Health:
No eye conditions, full eye movement, normal pupil response, good binocular vision. No Color blindness and Color vision 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

FEE STRUCTURE

PARTICULARSFEE (Rs)
Application Fee999/-
Total Fees*2,95,000/-
Caution Deposit (Refundable)5,000/-

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

HIMT is offering a 25K Discount in Course Fees for all Female Candidates

Note:

  • ⁠We offer scholarships for deserving students. Click here to find the list of scholarships.
  • 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.
  • HIMT also reserves the right to call for a re-assessment of candidates at any stage, and the shortlisted/selected students could be rejected or put on waitlist if their performance in the re-assessment is not good.

ADMISSION PROCESS

Step 1

Registration

Step 2

Application Fee
Payment

Step 3

Application Review

Step 4

Shortlisted candidates after the application review will be lined up for writtens, and the Candidates who clear the written exam will be called for an online interview.

Step 5

Shortlisted candidates to complete their admission formalities
(Medical, Document submission, Fees).

Step 6

Start your Merchant
Navy Career

WITHDRAWAL POLICY - July 2026 Intake

Withdrawal Period Cancellation Fee (INR)
On or before 14th June 2026 10,000/-
15th June 2026 onwards Full Fees Forfeited

Notes

  • Application Fee is non-refundable.
  • Refund requests must be submitted via email to admission@himtcollege.com.
  • Refunds, as applicable based on the above policy, will be processed within 30 days of receiving the cancellation email.
  • The refund policy also applies to candidates whose enrollment is canceled due to failure to clear the IMUCET (applicable only for B.Sc. Nautical Science, B. Tech Marine Engineering, and DNS) or failure to clear the medical examination.
  • In respect of refund policy, the decision of the institute is final and binding.
  • This cancellation policy is subject to change at the discretion of the management. Candidates are advised to review this policy periodically for any updates.

CAREER PATH

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OVERVIEW

The General Purpose (GP) Rating program is a six-month pre-sea training course designed for candidates who wish to begin their career in the Merchant Navy in entry-level operational roles. This course prepares trainees to work in both the deck and engine departments, making it a versatile pathway within the shipping industry. It is suitable for students who have completed their secondary education as per the prescribed GP Rating qualification criteria and who meet the medical fitness standards required for sea service. The curriculum includes seamanship, basic navigation support, engine room familiarization, firefighting, personal survival techniques, and safety procedures in accordance with maritime regulations. Candidates considering GP Rating course admission should also review the specified age limit and eligibility norms set by maritime authorities.

The GP Rating course for Merchant Navy aspirants is ideal for individuals seeking a shorter-duration, skill-focused maritime career option without pursuing an officer-level academic program. After completion of the six-month GP Rating course, trainees join ships as ratings and gain sea experience, which can later open opportunities for departmental specialization or advancement through internal examinations and sea-time requirements. This structured pre-sea training in Merchant Navy institutions ensures candidates are operationally prepared before boarding a vessel. For those exploring practical maritime roles with direct onboard exposure, this program provides a clear and industry-aligned entry into the global shipping workforce.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Premium FAQ
The GP Rating course is a 6-month pre-sea training program that prepares candidates to work as crew members in both Deck and Engine departments of merchant ships. It equips students with seamanship skills, engine room basics, safety procedures, and maritime operations knowledge. After completion, candidates join ships as Ratings and begin a seafaring career in the Merchant Navy.
GP Rating stands for “General Purpose Rating,” referring to a trained seafarer capable of performing duties in multiple shipboard departments. Unlike specialized crew, GP Ratings assist both deck operations (navigation support, cargo handling) and engine room tasks (machinery maintenance). This versatility makes GP Ratings highly valuable on merchant vessels worldwide.
Students who want a fast entry into the Merchant Navy after 10th or 12th standard, especially those interested in practical work and travel, should consider GP Rating. It suits candidates seeking a high-earning maritime career without pursuing long engineering degrees. Physically fit, disciplined individuals with a passion for sea life benefit most from this course.
The minimum eligibility is typically a pass in 10th standard from a recognized board, with Science and Mathematics preferred. Some institutes may require 40–50% aggregate marks and basic English proficiency. Candidates must also meet DG Shipping norms and medical fitness standards to qualify for admission.
Yes, basic English proficiency is essential because English is the international working language at sea. Candidates should be able to read, write, and communicate simple instructions for safety and operational purposes. Most institutes require a pass in English at the 10th or 12th level.
The typical age limit for GP Rating admission is between 17.5 and 24 years at the time of course commencement. Age relaxation may be provided for reserved categories as per government or DG Shipping guidelines. Younger candidates are preferred due to the physically demanding nature of seafaring.
Yes, diploma holders from recognized institutions can apply for the GP Rating course if they meet the age, medical, and eligibility criteria. In fact, technical diploma holders often adapt well to shipboard machinery and operations. However, higher qualifications do not change the entry rank, which remains at the Rating level.
Candidates must pass a DG Shipping–approved medical examination conducted by authorized maritime doctors. Requirements include good physical health, normal hearing, absence of major diseases, and fitness for strenuous work at sea. Medical fitness ensures the candidate can safely perform duties in isolated marine environments.
Yes, eyesight standards are strict because safety at sea depends heavily on visual awareness. Candidates must have good unaided or corrected vision as per maritime medical norms. Normal colour perception is also mandatory to identify navigation lights, signals, and safety indicators.
Spectacles are generally allowed within prescribed limits if vision can be corrected to acceptable standards. However, colour blindness is not permitted, as it can compromise the ability to distinguish navigational lights and safety signals. Candidates must pass the Ishihara colour vision test during medical examination.
While DG Shipping does not specify a strict universal height cut-off, most institutes prefer candidates with a minimum height of around 157 cm to ensure physical capability for shipboard tasks. Proportional weight and overall fitness are also assessed. Physical endurance is more important than height alone.
Tattoos are generally permitted if they are not offensive, obscene, or located on visible areas that may violate company policies. Some shipping companies restrict tattoos on the face, neck, or hands. Candidates should verify the guidelines before admission to avoid placement issues later.
GP Rating syllabus covers seamanship, navigation basics, cargo handling, marine engineering fundamentals, ship maintenance, firefighting, survival techniques, and maritime English. It is designed to build operational competence for both deck and engine duties. Safety training forms a major component of the curriculum.
GP Rating training is predominantly practical, focusing on hands-on skills required on ships. Students undergo workshops, drills, equipment handling, rope work, and maintenance activities alongside classroom sessions. The aim is to prepare candidates for real shipboard conditions from day one.
Yes, modern GP Rating programs include simulator training to familiarize students with ship operations, navigation scenarios, and emergencies. Simulators provide a safe environment to practice critical procedures before going to sea. This enhances confidence and operational readiness.
Yes, hostel accommodation is compulsory for GP Rating training as the course is conducted in a fully residential format. Staying on campus ensures a disciplined routine, physical training, safety drills, and continuous supervision aligned with maritime standards. It also prepares candidates for the structured lifestyle and teamwork required on board ships.
Yes, STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watch-keeping) basic safety courses are integral to GP Rating programs. These internationally recognized certifications cover firefighting, personal survival techniques, first aid, and personal safety responsibilities. STCW compliance is mandatory for joining any merchant ship.
Absolutely. DG Shipping approval ensures that the institute meets government and international maritime training standards. Only graduates from DG Shipping–approved institutes are eligible for CDC (Continuous Discharge Certificate) and shipboard employment. Verification of approval status is essential before admission.
Top GP Rating institutes are those approved by DG Shipping, affiliated with reputed maritime bodies, and known for strong placement records and modern infrastructure. Reputed institutes such as HIMT College offer quality training supported by simulators, experienced faculty, and industry tie-ups. Students should prioritize DG Shipping approval, placement support, and training standards over proximity or low fees.
Admission typically involves application submission, eligibility verification, medical examination, and sometimes an entrance test or interview. Institutes assess academic records, physical fitness, and communication skills. Final admission is confirmed after medical clearance and fee payment.
Yes, many nationalized and private banks offer education loans for DG Shipping–approved maritime courses. Loan approval depends on the institute's recognition, fee structure, and the applicant’s financial profile.
Scholarships may be available through government schemes, maritime trusts, or institute-specific merit programs. Eligibility usually depends on academic performance, economic background, or reserved category status. HIMT offers scholarships for deserving students.
Reputed institutes like HIMT College strongly focus on placement support through shipping company tie-ups, campus interviews, and career guidance. While no institute can legally guarantee employment, strong placement records significantly improve job prospects. Performance, discipline, and medical fitness also influence selection.
The waiting period varies depending on market demand, the institute's reputation, and the candidate's performance. Some students secure placement immediately after training, while others may wait a few months. Continuous follow-up, readiness to travel, and maintaining medical validity are important.
GP Rating graduates typically join as Ordinary Seaman (Deck) or Wiper (Engine). With sea experience, they can be promoted to Able Seaman or Motorman after the required certifications. Long-term progression may lead to higher competency roles through additional training and examinations.
Yes, GP Ratings can specialize in either the Deck or Engine department based on interest, experience, and company requirements. Additional courses and sea time enable progression within the chosen department. This flexibility is one of the major advantages of GP Rating training.
Starting salaries typically range from USD 300 to 600 per month, depending on the shipping company, vessel type, and route. International vessels often offer higher pay compared to coastal ships. Salaries increase significantly with experience and promotions.
Experienced GP Rating can earn between USD 700 and 1,200 per month or more on foreign-going ships. Earnings vary with rank, company standards, and vessel category, such as tankers or container ships. Additional benefits like overtime may also apply.
Merchant Navy income can be tax-free in India if the seafarer qualifies as a Non-Resident Indian (NRI) under income tax rules by staying outside India for the required number of days. Tax obligations depend on residency status and applicable laws. Professional tax advice is recommended.
Yes, shipping companies provide free accommodation, meals, uniforms, and basic medical care on board. This significantly reduces personal expenses and allows seafarers to save a large portion of their salary. Living conditions vary by vessel but are generally comfortable and regulated by maritime standards.