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Overview

• The GP Rating (General Purpose Rating) Course is a pre-sea training program designed for individuals aspiring to work in the merchant navy.
• This course equips candidates with skills in both deck and engine departments, making them eligible for entry-level positions on ships.
• The GP Rating course is aimed at training candidates for various roles in the maritime industry.
• After completing the course, candidates can work as deck crew, engine crew, or other supporting positions onboard merchant ships.
• The training covers safety procedures, ship maintenance, and other essential maritime skills.
• The GP Rating course is a great option for those who wish to start a career in the merchant navy with minimal qualifications. With hard work and experience, one can climb the ranks and secure high-paying positions in the maritime industry.

Age Limit

• Minimum Age: 17.5 years
• Maximum Age: 25 years (age relaxation for SC/ST as per government norms)

Eligibility

• Educational Qualification: Candidates must have passed Class 10th or 12th from a recognized board with a minimum of 40% aggregate marks in English, Mathematics, and Science.
• Medical Fitness: Candidates must be medically fit as per the guidelines of DG Shipping and have 6/6 eyesight in both eyes (without color blindness).

Duration

• The GP Rating course is a 6-month residential program that includes both theoretical and practical training.

Course Fees

• The fees for the GP Rating course typically range from INR 2.5 to 5 lakhs, depending on the institution. Some colleges also offer scholarships or sponsorships from shipping companies.

Entrance Exams

• Most institutes do not conduct specific entrance exams; however, some require candidates to pass aptitude tests and personal interviews. Medical fitness tests are also a crucial part of the selection process.

Career Opportunities

• After completing the GP Rating course, candidates can join merchant ships as:

• Deck Rating (Assisting in navigation, cargo handling, and safety operations)
• Engine Rating (Assisting in engine room operations, maintenance, and repairs)

Placement

• Many reputed maritime institutes have tie-ups with shipping companies that offer placements after the course. Candidates can also apply for jobs directly to international shipping companies.

Salary

• The starting salary of GP Rating candidates varies based on the shipping company and type of ship. Generally:

• Freshers: INR 25,000 – 50,000 per month
• Experienced Seafarers: INR 1 lakh – 3 lakhs per month (after promotions and experience)

Syllabus

• The syllabus includes:

• Maritime English & Communication
• Ship Construction & Basic Seamanship
• Fire Prevention & Fire Fighting
• Personal Safety & Social Responsibilities
• Marine Engineering Basics
• First Aid & Survival Techniques

Specializations

• Though GP Rating does not have specific specializations, candidates can advance in their careers by obtaining certifications and experience in:

• Deck Department (leading to Bosun and later Deck Officer roles)
• Engine Department (leading to Motorman and later Engineer Officer roles)

After GP Rating

• Candidates can upgrade their qualifications by:

• Pursuing Higher Studies (like Diploma in Nautical Science or Marine Engineering)
• Appearing for Competency Exams to become an officer
• Gaining Sea Experience to become eligible for promotions

Popular Colleges and Universities

• Some well-known institutes offering GP Rating courses in India are:

1. T. S. Rahaman, Mumbai
2. Samundra Institute of Maritime Studies, Mumbai
3. International Maritime Institute, Greater Noida
4. HIMT College, Chennai
5. BP Marine Academy, Navi Mumbai
6. Cochin Shipyard Institute, Kerala
7. Yak Maritime Academy, Mumbai