The maritime industry offers thousands of employment opportunities for young individuals seeking a rewarding career at sea. Among the most popular entry-level maritime programs is the GP Rating Course, which serves as a gateway for candidates aspiring to work onboard merchant ships as ratings and support crew.
What is a GP Rating Course?
The GP Rating Course (General Purpose Rating) is a specialized pre-sea training program approved by the Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA) and DG Shipping. This program prepares candidates to perform both Deck Rating and Engine Rating duties onboard commercial merchant vessels.
Unlike specialized maritime degree programs that focus exclusively on deck or engine operations, students in the GP Rating Course receive comprehensive hands-on training in both departments. This dual-department training makes graduates highly versatile seafarers capable of assisting in seamanship, cargo operations, bridge watchkeeping, and engine room machinery maintenance.
Upon successful completion of the course and mandatory sea-time service, seafarers can join merchant ships worldwide and build a progressive maritime career.
GP Rating Course at a Glance
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Course Name | General Purpose (GP) Rating Course |
| Duration | 6 Months (Pre-Sea Classroom & Practical Training) |
| Stream | Merchant Navy Support Rating |
| Eligibility | 10th Standard (SSC) with 40% aggregate and 40% in English |
| Age Limit | 17.5 to 25 Years (Relaxations per DGMA rules) |
| Medical Standard | Certified fit by a DGMA-approved doctor |
| Career Entry | Trainee Rating → Ordinary Seaman (OS) / Wiper → AB / Oiler → Bosun / Officer |
Role of a GP Rating Onboard
A GP Rating acts as a multi-skilled seafarer onboard container ships, bulk carriers, tankers, and offshore vessels. Seafarers assist officers in both the deck and engine departments.
Deck Department Responsibilities
- Maintenance of ship deck areas and cargo holds
- Painting, chipping, and rust prevention work
- Mooring and unmooring operations during port arrival and departure
- Assisting during cargo loading and discharge operations
- Bridge watchkeeping and look-out duties
- Maintenance of lifesaving appliances and firefighting equipment
- Assisting officers during navigation maneuvers
Engine Department Responsibilities
- Assisting marine engineers during machinery overhaul and maintenance
- Lubrication, oiling, and cleaning of engine room components
- Engine room watchkeeping assistance
- Maintenance of pumps, generators, and auxiliary machinery
- Fuel oil and lube oil transfer operations
- Assisting during emergency engine repairs and maintenance
Eligibility Criteria for GP Rating Course
Candidates interested in joining the GP Rating Course must satisfy the official entry requirements specified by the authority:
Educational Qualification
- Candidate must pass 10th Standard (SSC) from a recognized educational board.
- Minimum aggregate score of 40% in Class 10.
- Minimum 40% marks in English subject either in Class 10 or Class 12.
- Candidates with ITI, Diploma, or Degree qualifications are also eligible provided 10th marks satisfy the criteria.
Age Limit
- Minimum age: 17.5 years at course commencement.
- Maximum age: 25 years at course commencement.
- Age relaxations apply for SC/ST candidates (up to 5 years) and OBC candidates (up to 3 years) as per prevailing DGMA guidelines.
Medical & Vision Standards
- Candidate must be physically and mentally fit for sea service.
- Normal hearing capacity.
- 6/6 vision in both eyes (unaided) without color blindness.
- Medical fitness certificate issued by an authorized DGMA-approved doctor.
- Valid Indian Passport mandatory before course completion.
Course Duration and Structure
The GP Rating Course spans 6 months of pre-sea training.
The training program is conducted at recognized maritime training institutes and combines theoretical lectures with extensive practical workshops, seamanship drills, and simulator training.
During the 6 months, candidates complete STCW modular safety courses, including the mandatory Basic Safety Training Course (BST) covering personal survival, fire fighting, first aid, and personal safety.
Subjects Covered in GP Rating Course
The curriculum of the GP Rating Course is designed to cover essential maritime skills:
Seamanship & Deck Modules
- Navigation basics and compass reading
- Steering practice and bridge watchkeeping
- Rope work, knot tying, and wire splicing
- Cargo handling and stowage procedures
- Anchoring and mooring operations
- Ship construction and deck maintenance
Marine Engineering Modules
- Fundamentals of marine engines and boilers
- Workshop bench fitting, welding, and lathe operations
- Operation of pumps, valves, and compressors
- Basic electrical safety and engine room routines
- Lube oil and fuel handling procedures
Safety & STCW Training
- Personal Survival Techniques (PST)
- Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (FPFF)
- Elementary First Aid (EFA)
- Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities (PSSR)
- Security Awareness Training (STSDSD)
- Marine Environmental Protection (MARPOL)
Documents Required for Admission
Candidates applying for admission to the GP Rating Course must prepare the following documentation:
- Class 10th Mark Sheet and Passing Certificate
- Class 12th / ITI / Diploma Mark Sheet (if applicable)
- Birth Certificate / School Leaving Certificate
- Government Photo ID (Aadhaar Card)
- Valid Indian Passport
- Medical Fitness Certificate from a DGMA-approved doctor
- Recent passport-sized color photographs in formal attire
What Happens After Completing the GP Rating Course?
Upon passing the exit examinations conducted by the Board of Examinations for Seafarers (BES), candidates receive their course completion certificate and can apply for their Continuous Discharge Certificate (CDC) issued by the Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA).
With a valid CDC and passport, seafarers can secure placement with verified RPSL companies to complete mandatory sea service onboard commercial ships.
Career Progression Pathway for GP Rating
Graduating from the GP Rating Course opens a clear, step-by-step career path in the shipping industry:
Deck Department Progression
- Trainee GP Rating / Deck Rating: Initial sea service phase onboard vessels.
- Ordinary Seaman (OS): After completing 6 to 9 months of sea service.
- Able Seaman (AB): After completing 12 to 18 months sea time and obtaining Able Seafarer Deck COP.
- Bosun (Boatswain): Leading deck rating supervising seamanship work.
- Third Officer (Officer Route): By clearing Second Mate NCV / FG examinations through the rating-to-officer competency pathway.
Engine Department Progression
- Trainee Engine Rating / Wiper: Initial engine room sea service phase.
- Wiper / Trainee Oiler: Assisting in engine maintenance.
- Oiler / Motorman: After obtaining Able Seafarer Engine COP.
- Fitter / Electrician / Pumpman: Specialized senior rating roles.
- Engine Officer (Officer Route): By clearing Class IV Engineer examinations after mandatory sea service.
Salary After GP Rating Course
Salaries for GP Rating seafarers vary based on vessel type, rank, shipping company, and trade routes:
| Rank / Position | Average Monthly Salary (USD) | Key Duties |
|---|---|---|
| Trainee GP Rating | $300 – $600 | Shipboard orientation, maintenance, and training |
| Ordinary Seaman (OS) | $700 – $1,200 | Deck maintenance, watchkeeping, and chipping |
| Wiper / Trainee Oiler | $700 – $1,200 | Engine room cleaning, oiling, and pump support |
| Able Seaman (AB) | $1,200 – $2,000 | Steering, bridge watchkeeping, and seamanship |
| Oiler / Motorman | $1,200 – $2,000 | Main engine watchkeeping, auxiliary maintenance |
| Bosun / Pumpman | $2,000 – $3,200 | Leading deck rating, cargo pump operations |
Seafarers working on specialized vessels such as chemical tankers, gas carriers (LNG/LPG), and offshore supply vessels often receive higher remuneration packages along with tax-free earnings under Indian NRI tax provisions.
Benefits of Choosing GP Rating Course
- Short Training Duration: 6 months of pre-sea training allows rapid entry into the maritime workforce.
- Dual Skill Set: Training in both deck and engine departments doubles career opportunities.
- Early Financial Independence: Opportunity to earn in foreign currency at a young age.
- Global Exposure: Travel worldwide while receiving free boarding, lodging, and medical care onboard.
- Clear Promotion Route: Ratings can appear for officer competency exams after acquiring sea service.
- Wide Job Scope: Eligible to work on container ships, tankers, bulk carriers, passenger vessels, and offshore ships.
Top Institutes Offering GP Rating Course
Selecting a recognized institute is vital for securing quality training and placement support. Candidates should always verify that the institute holds valid approval from the Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA).
Leading institutes offering the GP Rating Course in India include:
- NUSI Maritime Academy (Goa)
- Great Eastern Institute of Maritime Studies (GEIMS)
- T.S. Rahaman (Mumbai)
- AQUA-MARITIME Training Institute
- CMC Maritime Academy (Chennai)
- Maritime Training Institute (MTI – SCI)
You can explore approved colleges, course fee structures, and admission guidelines on the IndoSearch MTI Directory and check all DG Shipping Approved Maritime Courses.
What is DGMA’s Role in GP Rating Courses?
The Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA) and DG Shipping regulate maritime training and employment standards in India.
Their responsibilities include:
- Approval and auditing of recognized maritime training institutes
- Setting eligibility criteria and medical fitness standards
- Prescribing syllabus standards per international STCW conventions
- Issuing Continuous Discharge Certificates (CDC) to seafarers
- Safeguarding the welfare and wage rights of seafarers on RPSL companies
Challenges of a Seafaring Career
While the GP Rating Course offers early financial independence, candidates should understand the realistic challenges of life at sea:
- Long Periods Away from Family: Contracts generally last 6 to 9 months onboard vessels.
- Physically Demanding Work: Involves deck maintenance, watchkeeping, and engine room overhauls.
- Adverse Weather Conditions: Seafarers must operate in rough seas and variable weather.
- Strict Discipline: Safety regulations require complete adherence to maritime protocols.
Is GP Rating a Good Career Option?
For young individuals seeking early entry into the Merchant Navy without pursuing a 3 or 4-year degree, the GP Rating Course remains one of the best choices. It offers a practical 6-month pre-sea training route, tax-free salary opportunities, global travel, and a structured promotion pathway to senior rating and officer ranks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the full form of GP Rating?
GP Rating stands for General Purpose Rating.
What is the duration of the GP Rating Course?
The GP Rating Course consists of 6 months of pre-sea classroom and practical training.
Can a 10th pass student join the GP Rating Course?
Yes. Students who have passed 10th Standard with minimum 40% aggregate marks and 40% in English are eligible.
Can a GP Rating become an Officer in the Merchant Navy?
Yes. Ratings can appear for Officer Competency Examinations (Second Mate NCV/FG or Class IV Engineer) after acquiring mandatory sea time service and completing modular courses.
Is a passport mandatory for GP Rating admission?
Yes. A valid Indian Passport is mandatory for joining pre-sea training and obtaining the Continuous Discharge Certificate (CDC).
What is the age limit for the GP Rating Course?
The age limit is generally between 17.5 and 25 years at course commencement, with relaxations for reserved categories per DGMA guidelines.
What is the starting salary of a GP Rating seafarer?
Trainee GP Ratings earn between $300 and $600 per month, which increases to $1,200 – $2,000+ per month upon promotion to Able Seaman (AB) or Oiler.
Is medical fitness compulsory for GP Rating?
Yes. Candidates must undergo a thorough medical examination by a DGMA-approved doctor and possess 6/6 vision without color blindness.
What is the difference between GP Rating and DNS?
GP Rating is a 6-month certificate program for support rating roles (OS/Wiper), whereas DNS (Diploma in Nautical Science) is a 1-year diploma program for deck officer cadetship.
How can I verify if a GP Rating institute is approved?
Candidates should check the official list of approved institutes on the DGMA portal and browse verified colleges on the IndoSearch Directory.