General Purpose Rating (GP Rating) – 6 Month Course
Approved Maritime Pre-Sea Training Programme
Approved by the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), Government of India | Examinations conducted by the Board of Examination for Seafarers (BES)
The General Purpose (GP) Rating Programme is designed for students aspiring to build a career in the Merchant Navy as Deck Crew or Engine Crew onboard Indian and foreign-going vessels.
This course provides practical maritime training in seamanship, cargo handling, ship maintenance, engine room operations, safety procedures, firefighting, and survival techniques as per international maritime standards. The programme prepares candidates to efficiently perform duties both on the deck side and in the engine department onboard ships.
Upon successful completion of the pre-sea training, candidates become eligible to join shipping companies as Ratings in the Deck or Engine Department. GP Rating personnel play an important role in the day-to-day operation, maintenance, and safety of merchant vessels.
After completion of the course, examinations are conducted by the Board of Examination for Seafarers (BES). Successful candidates become eligible to obtain the Continuous Discharge Certificate (CDC) issued by the Directorate General of Shipping, Government of India.
Career Growth Path – GP Rating
| Stage | Sea Service / Qualification | Rank / Position |
|---|---|---|
| After Completion of 6-Month GP Rating Course | Eligible to join Merchant Navy vessels | Deck Crew / Engine Crew |
| With Further Sea Service & Operational Experience | Promotion in Deck or Engine Department | AB Seaman / Bosun / Engine Crew Positions |
| After 36 Months Sea Service & Required Qualifications | Eligible to appear for competency examinations | 2nd Mate Examination Eligibility |
| With Further Sea Experience & Competency Examinations | Officer-level career progression | 2nd Officer to Captain Level |
Career Opportunities for GP Rating Personnel
With additional sea service, experience, and competency qualifications, candidates can progress to higher ranks such as Navigation Officers & Engineers, and other senior operational positions onboard. Eligible candidates may also pursue officer-level promotions through the prescribed competency pathway and maritime examinations.
The global shipping industry continues to offer excellent employment opportunities for qualified Indian seafarers across various types of merchant vessels worldwide.
Admission for General Purpose Rating (GP Rating) – 6 Month Course
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Pass in 10th Standard from a Government Recognized Board with English, Mathematics, and Science subjects and minimum 40% aggregate marks. Minimum 40% marks in English in 10th or 12th Standard. Candidates who passed 12th Standard in any stream with required English marks are also eligible. ITI candidates with approved 2-Year courses and minimum 50% aggregate marks may also apply. |
| Age Limit | Minimum 17 Years 6 Months and Maximum 25 Years. |
| Vision Standards | No Color Blindness. 6/6 Vision in each eye is mandatory. Spectacles are not permitted. |
