Deck Cadet: Courses, Jobs, and Career in Merchant Navy
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What is Deck Cadet Job Description: Responsibilities and Skills Required?
As a Deck Cadet in the Merchant Navy, your job description involves a range of responsibilities and required skills. You will work under the supervision of senior deck officers and learn the practical aspects of navigation, ship maintenance, cargo handling, and safety procedures.
Your responsibilities may include assisting with navigational duties, participating in deck operations, conducting safety drills, maintaining ship equipment, and keeping records. Strong communication skills, teamwork, adaptability, problem-solving abilities, physical fitness, and a good understanding of maritime regulations are essential for this role. Additionally, attention to detail, leadership potential, and a commitment to safety are important attributes for a successful Deck Cadet.
Your responsibilities may include assisting with navigational duties, participating in deck operations, conducting safety drills, maintaining ship equipment, and keeping records. Strong communication skills, teamwork, adaptability, problem-solving abilities, physical fitness, and a good understanding of maritime regulations are essential for this role. Additionally, attention to detail, leadership potential, and a commitment to safety are important attributes for a successful Deck Cadet.
1. Explore Deck Cadet Courses and Career Paths in the Merchant Navy
Welcome to the world of Deck Cadet in the Merchant Navy, where you can embark on an exciting career at sea. As a deck cadet, you will have the opportunity to learn and grow through specialized courses designed to develop your skills and knowledge. Explore various deck cadet courses available and choose the one that aligns with your aspirations.
If you aspire to become a deck cadet in the Merchant Navy, it's important to understand the entry requirements and application process. Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria, including educational qualifications and age limits. Research deck cadet course fees in India and explore scholarship opportunities if needed. Seek guidance from reputable maritime training institutes to kick-start your journey as a deck cadet.
1.1 Educational Qualification:
For 10+2 Science students: from a recognized Board/University with Physics,Chemistry and Mathematics (PCM), with not less than 65% marks in PCM aggregate.
OR
For BSc students: With Physics as an individual subject in any one of the years of B.Sc. , with not less than 60% marks in the final year of B.Sc. , from a recognized University provided that the candidate must have passed 10 + 2 examination with Physics , Chemistry and Mathematics (PCM ) from a recognized Board.
OR
For BE /B.Tech Students: or its equivalent degree from I . I .T. or from a college recognized by ICTE/UGC/DEC.
AND
English: Should have passed with not less than 60% marks in English as a separate subject, at either 10th or 12th standard or in the Degree programme conducted by a recognized Board/University .
1.2 Age Limit: Not more than 25 Yrs at the commencement of course
1.3 Physical and Medical Standards: Medical l y fit as per the standards set by Merchant Shipping Medical Examination Rules, and eyesight 6/6 in each eye without visual aids .
If you aspire to become a deck cadet in the Merchant Navy, it's important to understand the entry requirements and application process. Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria, including educational qualifications and age limits. Research deck cadet course fees in India and explore scholarship opportunities if needed. Seek guidance from reputable maritime training institutes to kick-start your journey as a deck cadet.
1.1 Educational Qualification:
For 10+2 Science students: from a recognized Board/University with Physics,Chemistry and Mathematics (PCM), with not less than 65% marks in PCM aggregate.
OR
For BSc students: With Physics as an individual subject in any one of the years of B.Sc. , with not less than 60% marks in the final year of B.Sc. , from a recognized University provided that the candidate must have passed 10 + 2 examination with Physics , Chemistry and Mathematics (PCM ) from a recognized Board.
OR
For BE /B.Tech Students: or its equivalent degree from I . I .T. or from a college recognized by ICTE/UGC/DEC.
AND
English: Should have passed with not less than 60% marks in English as a separate subject, at either 10th or 12th standard or in the Degree programme conducted by a recognized Board/University .
1.2 Age Limit: Not more than 25 Yrs at the commencement of course
1.3 Physical and Medical Standards: Medical l y fit as per the standards set by Merchant Shipping Medical Examination Rules, and eyesight 6/6 in each eye without visual aids .
2. How to Join the Merchant Navy as a Deck Cadet and Embark on an Exciting Career
Embark on an exciting adventure as a deck cadet in the Merchant Navy. Start your training, gain hands-on experience, and lay the foundation for a successful maritime career. The opportunities are vast, and the rewards are fulfilling. Take the first step and set sail towards a bright future as a deck cadet.
There are two types of Deck Cadet Training Programmes.
1. Diploma in Nautical Science leading to B.Sc. degree in Nautical Science
2. Three years B.Sc. in Nautical Science, 3 years course
I would advice you to go for Course no.1 as it's only one year course in Pre sea institute and in the second year you join ship and start earning. Pre sea institutes fees are very high so you save in college fees too. and eventually you get B.Sc. degree after passing 2nd Mate examination.
There are two types of Deck Cadet Training Programmes.
1. Diploma in Nautical Science leading to B.Sc. degree in Nautical Science
2. Three years B.Sc. in Nautical Science, 3 years course
I would advice you to go for Course no.1 as it's only one year course in Pre sea institute and in the second year you join ship and start earning. Pre sea institutes fees are very high so you save in college fees too. and eventually you get B.Sc. degree after passing 2nd Mate examination.
3. How can I take admission to Diploma in Nautical Science?
3.1 Diploma in Nautical Science leading to B.Sc. degree in Nautical Science
3.1.1 Training programme:
This is one year ( 2 semesters ) course in the Pre-sea institute. After completion of one year you will get "advanced Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS)". Then you will have to join ship to complete 3 semesters (3,4 & 5) as on board training.
During the on board training, will have to complete the Distance Learning Programme, and to submit to the Pre-sea Institute at the completion of each semester.
After the successful completion of all the 3 semesters you will have to attend 4 months of post sea college for preparing for 2nd Mates exams . On clearing the written and oral exams you will obtain "a certificate of competency as 2nd Mate' and is also awarded a "B.Sc. degree" in Nautical Science by Indian Maritime University(IMU).
3.1.1 Training programme:
This is one year ( 2 semesters ) course in the Pre-sea institute. After completion of one year you will get "advanced Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS)". Then you will have to join ship to complete 3 semesters (3,4 & 5) as on board training.
During the on board training, will have to complete the Distance Learning Programme, and to submit to the Pre-sea Institute at the completion of each semester.
After the successful completion of all the 3 semesters you will have to attend 4 months of post sea college for preparing for 2nd Mates exams . On clearing the written and oral exams you will obtain "a certificate of competency as 2nd Mate' and is also awarded a "B.Sc. degree" in Nautical Science by Indian Maritime University(IMU).
3.1.2. Procedure to take admission for Diploma in Nautical Science
3.1.2.1 There are two methods to take admissions in Diploma in Nautical Science.
Method 1: (Join as a sponsored candidate)
Apply to a Shipping Company first for the post of Deck Cadet .
1. The company will check that you fulfil all the qualification criteria set by DG Shipping and the Company and conduct selection test which may include a written test, a Psychometric evaluation, Interview and Medical Test .
2. If you pass the selection test then you will be told to appear for the IMU entrance test as per 3.1.2
3. On successful passing of the IMU entrance test you will be advised to undergo a 1 year pre-sea course ( 2 semesters) at an institute of the company’s choice.
Method 2: (Join as an un-sponsored candidate)
1. Apply directly to IMU and appear for IMU entrance test .
2. After passing the IMU entrance test, you will be allocated a Pre-Sea Inst any where in India.
3 During your course, you may be selected by Shipping companies through campus recruitment. If not then you will have to apply to the shipping companies on completion of the course.
Out of the 2 methods mentioned above the 1st method is preferred as you have an assurance of on board training to complete remaining 3 semesters on board.
In method 2, you have to look for a job after completion of the course and to get the job is not very easy as most of the companies have already sponsored the candidates as per their requirement. On board training berths are very fewer compared to the pre-sea training seats, hence if you do not have an assured sea berth, you may even spend a year trying to get an employment with a shipping company .
3.1.2.1 There are two methods to take admissions in Diploma in Nautical Science.
Method 1: (Join as a sponsored candidate)
Apply to a Shipping Company first for the post of Deck Cadet .
1. The company will check that you fulfil all the qualification criteria set by DG Shipping and the Company and conduct selection test which may include a written test, a Psychometric evaluation, Interview and Medical Test .
2. If you pass the selection test then you will be told to appear for the IMU entrance test as per 3.1.2
3. On successful passing of the IMU entrance test you will be advised to undergo a 1 year pre-sea course ( 2 semesters) at an institute of the company’s choice.
Method 2: (Join as an un-sponsored candidate)
1. Apply directly to IMU and appear for IMU entrance test .
2. After passing the IMU entrance test, you will be allocated a Pre-Sea Inst any where in India.
3 During your course, you may be selected by Shipping companies through campus recruitment. If not then you will have to apply to the shipping companies on completion of the course.
Out of the 2 methods mentioned above the 1st method is preferred as you have an assurance of on board training to complete remaining 3 semesters on board.
In method 2, you have to look for a job after completion of the course and to get the job is not very easy as most of the companies have already sponsored the candidates as per their requirement. On board training berths are very fewer compared to the pre-sea training seats, hence if you do not have an assured sea berth, you may even spend a year trying to get an employment with a shipping company .
3.1.2.2 The selection process as a Deck Cadet in Shipping Company.
In general all shipping Companies conduct test to select a Deck Cadet as follows :
The written / online test:
The examination may comprises of :
1. A written or online test.
2. A psychometric paper.
Mostly questions will be based on 10+2 level Mathematics , Physics , Chemistry , English, aptitude and General Knowledge.
Applicants who pass the Written/Online test and the psychometric evaluation will be called for an interview.
The candidates who qualify the Written and Interview, are then sent to undergo a Medical test through company appointed doctors and an eyesight test at the Mercantile Marine Department, in any of the metros .
On passing all the above tests/examinations the candidate is selected as a Deck cadet, subject to passing the IMU-CET by him.
Shipping company shall issue them a letter of having been selected for undergoing the on-board training after successful completion of the DNS programme at the Pre-Sea institute.
3.1.2.3 . Entrance test to join Diploma in Nautical Science.
The entrance exam is conducted by the Indian Maritime University and the exam is called CET – common entrance test which is a test one can take to join any shipping related stream – deck, engine, Naval architecture. This exam is conducted in December and June of each y ear at around 15 centres all over India. The eligibility criteria for attempting the IMU – CET is as given in Para 1.
In general all shipping Companies conduct test to select a Deck Cadet as follows :
The written / online test:
The examination may comprises of :
1. A written or online test.
2. A psychometric paper.
Mostly questions will be based on 10+2 level Mathematics , Physics , Chemistry , English, aptitude and General Knowledge.
Applicants who pass the Written/Online test and the psychometric evaluation will be called for an interview.
The candidates who qualify the Written and Interview, are then sent to undergo a Medical test through company appointed doctors and an eyesight test at the Mercantile Marine Department, in any of the metros .
On passing all the above tests/examinations the candidate is selected as a Deck cadet, subject to passing the IMU-CET by him.
Shipping company shall issue them a letter of having been selected for undergoing the on-board training after successful completion of the DNS programme at the Pre-Sea institute.
3.1.2.3 . Entrance test to join Diploma in Nautical Science.
The entrance exam is conducted by the Indian Maritime University and the exam is called CET – common entrance test which is a test one can take to join any shipping related stream – deck, engine, Naval architecture. This exam is conducted in December and June of each y ear at around 15 centres all over India. The eligibility criteria for attempting the IMU – CET is as given in Para 1.
3.1.2.4 The cost of Pre-Sea Training.
Cost of pre-sea training is approximately Rs . 4 lakhs and has to be borne by the candidate
3.1.2.5 Education loan is available.
Once you have been selected by shipping company, they can arrange for banks to give you education loans at existing market rates , you could also approach a bank of your choice to obtain educational loans at favorable interest rates .
3.1.3. Pre-sea Institute Programme.
The pre-sea course is a residential course i.e. you will be residing in hostel inside the campus .
In the pre-sea course, you will be imparted training in shipping related fields and on general related topics .
After completion of the 1 year pre-sea training successfully, you will have to inform to the shipping company by whom you were selected so that they will start processing your joining to ship to complete on board training for 3 semesters ( 18 months).
3.1.2.4 The cost of Pre-Sea Training.
Cost of pre-sea training is approximately Rs . 4 lakhs and has to be borne by the candidate
3.1.2.5 Education loan is available.
Once you have been selected by shipping company, they can arrange for banks to give you education loans at existing market rates , you could also approach a bank of your choice to obtain educational loans at favorable interest rates .
3.1.3. Pre-sea Institute Programme.
The pre-sea course is a residential course i.e. you will be residing in hostel inside the campus .
In the pre-sea course, you will be imparted training in shipping related fields and on general related topics .
After completion of the 1 year pre-sea training successfully, you will have to inform to the shipping company by whom you were selected so that they will start processing your joining to ship to complete on board training for 3 semesters ( 18 months).
4. What is the procedure for taking admission in B.Sc. in Nautical Science?
4.1 Three years B.Sc. in Nautical Science, 3 years course
Eligibility: Qualifications, Age, Medical standards are same as givenn above in para 1.
4.2 Selection Process in Private College
You have to apply directly to the colleges who are conducting 3 years B.Sc. in Nautical Science course. The candidates will be selected by respective colleges on merit basis.
In private colleges, Cost of the course is approximately Rs . 3 lakhs per annum and has to be borne by the candidate.
4.3 Selection Process in Government Colleges like TS Chanakya
For Government Institutions like TS Chanakya, All India Joint Entrance Examination conducted by IIT in Dec/May each year. Advertisement for these examinations usually published in all leading dailies in Jun/Jul each year including Employment News.
In government institutions like TS Chanakya, total expenditure for three years Rs. 98,000/- (which includes boarding, lodging,)
Eligibility: Qualifications, Age, Medical standards are same as givenn above in para 1.
4.2 Selection Process in Private College
You have to apply directly to the colleges who are conducting 3 years B.Sc. in Nautical Science course. The candidates will be selected by respective colleges on merit basis.
In private colleges, Cost of the course is approximately Rs . 3 lakhs per annum and has to be borne by the candidate.
4.3 Selection Process in Government Colleges like TS Chanakya
For Government Institutions like TS Chanakya, All India Joint Entrance Examination conducted by IIT in Dec/May each year. Advertisement for these examinations usually published in all leading dailies in Jun/Jul each year including Employment News.
In government institutions like TS Chanakya, total expenditure for three years Rs. 98,000/- (which includes boarding, lodging,)
4.4 Method of Joining Shipping Company
During your course, you may be selected by Shipping companies through campus recruitment. If not then you will have to apply to the shipping companies on completion of the course.
4.5 Brief Outline of the Educational and Training Programme For Degree Course :
a) Scholastic - Subjects like English and Communication Skills, Applied Mathematics, Physics and Electronics, Computer Science and Marine Management. Practicals in these subjects are held as per University's requirements.
b) Professional - Navigation, Astronomy, Practical Navigation, Voyage Planning including Chart Work, Magnetic and Gyro Compasses, Electronic Navigational Aids viz. Radar, Decca, Loran, Satellite Navigation, GPS, GMDSS & Ship Operation Technology, Naval Architecture, Cargo Work, Ship Maintenance, Collision Prevention and Marine Communications etc.
c) Applied Subjects :- Maritime Law, Marine Engineering and Control Systems and Environmental Sciences (Meteorology, Geology, Oceanography, Marine Pollution, Hydrographic Survey etc.).
During your course, you may be selected by Shipping companies through campus recruitment. If not then you will have to apply to the shipping companies on completion of the course.
4.5 Brief Outline of the Educational and Training Programme For Degree Course :
a) Scholastic - Subjects like English and Communication Skills, Applied Mathematics, Physics and Electronics, Computer Science and Marine Management. Practicals in these subjects are held as per University's requirements.
b) Professional - Navigation, Astronomy, Practical Navigation, Voyage Planning including Chart Work, Magnetic and Gyro Compasses, Electronic Navigational Aids viz. Radar, Decca, Loran, Satellite Navigation, GPS, GMDSS & Ship Operation Technology, Naval Architecture, Cargo Work, Ship Maintenance, Collision Prevention and Marine Communications etc.
c) Applied Subjects :- Maritime Law, Marine Engineering and Control Systems and Environmental Sciences (Meteorology, Geology, Oceanography, Marine Pollution, Hydrographic Survey etc.).
Which are D/G approved Institutes?
To check a list of D/G approved institutes click here
Are the Deck Cadet Jobs an Exciting Employment Opportunities in the Merchant Navy?
Deck cadet jobs in the Merchant Navy offer exciting employment opportunities for individuals aspiring to start their career at sea. As a deck cadet, you will gain practical experience, work alongside experienced professionals, and learn essential skills in navigation, safety procedures, and ship operations.
This entry-level position serves as a stepping stone towards becoming a deck officer, opening doors to a rewarding and adventurous maritime career.
This entry-level position serves as a stepping stone towards becoming a deck officer, opening doors to a rewarding and adventurous maritime career.
Which Companies Recruit Deck Cadets in large numbers?
Following Companies recruit deck cadets regularly and in large numbers. Last date for applying ig generally End April. Check with respective company first. Also you have to apply for the common entrance test conducted by Indian Maritime University.
1. Anglo-Eastern Ship Management Company
www.maritimetraining.in
2. MSC crewing Services Pvt Ltd
http://www.msccs.com/india/examform/
3. Samundra Institute of Maritime Studies run by Executive ship management Pvt Ltd
http://www.samundra.com
4. International Maritime Training centre ( Wilhelmsen Ship Management)
http://www.wilhelmsen.com/services/maritime/companies/IMTC/
5. Maersk Line
http://www.maersk.com/career/entry-level-jobs/maritime-programmes/pages/deck-cadet-scheme.aspx
6. Shipping Corporation of India
http://www.shipindia.com/careers/A_Career_at_Sea.aspx
7. Fleet Management Training Institute
http://www.fleetship.com/docs/NAVIGATIONFINAL1CDR16_02_2013.pdf
8. Wallem Ship Management India Pvt Ltd
http://wmtc.wallem.com/india/cadets.aspx
What is the procedure for jpoing Shipping Company after completion of Pre sea Training as Deck Cadet?
5.2.1. After Completion of Pre-sea training.
Keep yor passport ready before you join pre-sea institute, if not apply and get it before completion of 1st semester.
Company will call you and brief you about your on board training programme. They may even conduct short courses for you in their own training centre. Company will arrange for your medical test, visa, flight ticket to the port where you will be joining the ship. All the expenses will be borne by the company. If any company asks money for any of these services, then consider that you are being cheated.
5.2.2. Signing a bond with the company you join.
You may not have to sign bond if you are joining Europe based companies but Some Far East based companies may ask you to sign a bond to ensure that you join back to the same company after passing 2nd mate exam. For this purpose, they may deduct about USD 200/- each month from your stipend and the total amount deducted will be returned to you after you join the same company after passing 2nd mate examination. After completion of 2nd Mates exam, you still can join other company but the amount deducted during your training period would not be returned to you.
5.2.3. On board training
The on board training period i s 18 months. During this period the company will be paying you a stipend of about USD 400/- to 500/- per month. Boarding and lodging on board the ship is provided free of charge. Trainee is called Deck cadet. Training of 18 months can be completed at a stretch or i n 2 / 3 intervals of 6 to 9 months, Where you would be sent back home for a short vacation before joining back on another ship.
5.2.4. After completion of on board training.
After successful completion of 18 months on board training, you will attend a 4-months preparatory course to appear for the 2nd-mates Certificate of Competency examination conducted by the DG shipping, Government of India. On completion of training, you will be awarded a BSc in Nautical Science from IMU and al s o a 2nd Mates Certificate of Competency from the Govt of India, Ministry of Shipping, which qualifies you to sail as an officer on board ships . The company will send you as a third officer on ship.
5.2.5 When selecting companies keep following things in mind.
Choose the right Shipping company . Check whether it
Keep yor passport ready before you join pre-sea institute, if not apply and get it before completion of 1st semester.
Company will call you and brief you about your on board training programme. They may even conduct short courses for you in their own training centre. Company will arrange for your medical test, visa, flight ticket to the port where you will be joining the ship. All the expenses will be borne by the company. If any company asks money for any of these services, then consider that you are being cheated.
5.2.2. Signing a bond with the company you join.
You may not have to sign bond if you are joining Europe based companies but Some Far East based companies may ask you to sign a bond to ensure that you join back to the same company after passing 2nd mate exam. For this purpose, they may deduct about USD 200/- each month from your stipend and the total amount deducted will be returned to you after you join the same company after passing 2nd mate examination. After completion of 2nd Mates exam, you still can join other company but the amount deducted during your training period would not be returned to you.
5.2.3. On board training
The on board training period i s 18 months. During this period the company will be paying you a stipend of about USD 400/- to 500/- per month. Boarding and lodging on board the ship is provided free of charge. Trainee is called Deck cadet. Training of 18 months can be completed at a stretch or i n 2 / 3 intervals of 6 to 9 months, Where you would be sent back home for a short vacation before joining back on another ship.
5.2.4. After completion of on board training.
After successful completion of 18 months on board training, you will attend a 4-months preparatory course to appear for the 2nd-mates Certificate of Competency examination conducted by the DG shipping, Government of India. On completion of training, you will be awarded a BSc in Nautical Science from IMU and al s o a 2nd Mates Certificate of Competency from the Govt of India, Ministry of Shipping, which qualifies you to sail as an officer on board ships . The company will send you as a third officer on ship.
5.2.5 When selecting companies keep following things in mind.
Choose the right Shipping company . Check whether it
- has a good safety and quality record
- has a sizeable fleet of ships to be able to provide continuous employment and varied experience
- has good past track record.
- is giving good Stipend. More stipend company is giving to cadets means you will get more salary when you join as officer after passing 2nd Mates examination.
What is Deck Cadet Salary: Remuneration and Benefits in the Merchant Navy?
In terms of salary, deck cadets receive competitive remuneration and benefits. The exact salary may vary based on the shipping company, vessel type, and experience level. However, the deck cadet training program provides a valuable learning experience that sets you on the path to a rewarding maritime career.
Embark on an exciting adventure as a deck cadet in the Merchant Navy. Start your training, gain hands-on experience, and lay the foundation for a successful maritime career. The opportunities are vast, and the rewards are fulfilling. Take the first step and set sail towards a bright future as a deck cadet.
Embark on an exciting adventure as a deck cadet in the Merchant Navy. Start your training, gain hands-on experience, and lay the foundation for a successful maritime career. The opportunities are vast, and the rewards are fulfilling. Take the first step and set sail towards a bright future as a deck cadet.