GP Rating Entrance Exam for 2026 at TS Rahaman, SCI MTI, and NUSI Maritime Academy. These are popular choices for aspiring seafarers looking to join the Merchant Navy as General Purpose (GP) Ratings after Class 10th!
All three institutes test similar basics—English, Maths, Science, and General Knowledge (mostly up to 10th standard level)—but each has its own unique style and selection steps. The goal is to check your academic skills, some maritime interest/aptitude, and overall fitness for life at sea.
TS Rahaman (Training Ship Rahaman), Mumbai
This institute keeps things straightforward and focused on core subjects with a practical touch.
- Written Exam: Covers English (basic grammar, comprehension, sentence formation, vocabulary), Mathematics (10th-level topics like number systems, simplification, BODMAS, arithmetic), basic Science, and General Knowledge (history, geography, current affairs).
- Extra elements: Often includes some reasoning or basic aptitude questions.
- Next steps: If you clear the written test, you’ll face a personal interview and a medical check-up as per DG Shipping rules.
- Tip: They value practical maritime awareness alongside strong academics, so brush up on everyday knowledge too!
SCI Maritime Training Institute (SCI-MTI), Mumbai
SCI-MTI’s process has a modern feel with an online test and a bit more emphasis on shipping-related basics.
- Online Test (MCQ-based): Sections include:
- Professional Knowledge (basic maritime concepts, seamanship, shipboard safety)
- English Language
- Quantitative Aptitude (Maths up to 10th standard)
- Reasoning Ability
- Focus: English and Maths get good weightage, plus some technical shipping knowledge.
- Next steps: Clear the online test → called for an interview → detailed medical fitness test (DG Shipping standards—no relaxations!).
- Tip: Great if you like online formats and want exposure to real shipping basics early on.
NUSI Maritime Academy, Goa
NUSI combines written and oral tests, with extra attention to practical onboard skills.
- Written + Oral Test: Focuses on English (grammar, comprehension), Mathematics, Science (up to 10th level), and General Knowledge.
- Special note: They often include oral assessments and look for practical understanding—like basic ship operations and safety drills.
- Next steps: Pass the written/oral rounds → interview → strict medical examination.
- Tip: The oral part lets you shine through communication, so practice speaking clearly about simple topics!
Quick Comparison Table
| Institute | Main Subjects | Exam Format | Interview | Medical Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TS Rahaman | English, Maths, Science, GK | Written Test + Reasoning | Yes | DG Shipping norms |
| SCI MTI | English, Maths, Reasoning, Maritime Basics | Online MCQ Test | Yes | DG Shipping norms |
| NUSI Academy | English, Maths, Science, GK | Written + Oral Test | Yes | DG Shipping norms |
Final Encouragement
These exams are your first step toward an exciting career at sea—working on ships, seeing the world, and building a solid future! All three institutes look for the same key things: decent academics, some aptitude for maritime life, and good physical/medical fitness.
Best preparation tips:
- Study from your Class 10th textbooks (NCERT or state board for English, Maths, Science).
- Practice basic English grammar, comprehension, and vocabulary daily.
- Work on speed and accuracy in Maths.
- Read newspapers or watch news for current affairs and general knowledge.
- Get familiar with simple maritime terms (seamanship, safety rules) — it helps in interviews!
Stay consistent, stay positive, and give it your best shot. You’ve got this! 🌊⚓ Good luck to all you future seafarers—may fair winds and calm seas be with you in 2026! If you have more questions, feel free to ask. 🚀