GP Rating – Pre Sea Training

GP Rating – Pre Sea Training

GP Rating candidates undergo a 6-month course approved by DG Shipping, India, after 10th grade. They receive training in both Deck and Engine tasks, enabling them to work in either department on a ship. The course covers Seamanship, Cargo handling, Maintenance work, and Machinery operation. Successful completion jumpstarts a career in the Merchant Navy as a Deck or Engine Rating, encompassing physical training, workshops, and ship visits.

GP Rating candidates undergo comprehensive training in both Deck and Engine Room tasks, preparing them for versatile roles onboard. They handle Seamanship, Cargo operations, Maintenance, and Machinery tasks. Post Pre-sea training, they take examinations by the Board of Examination of Seafarers (BES) under D.G. Shipping (Govt of India) to obtain an Indian CDC. This allows them to work with Indian and international shipping firms in various trainee roles without a Common Entrance Test, though some institutes have their own entrance exams.

Duration: 6 Months
Approved By: Director General of Shipping, Govt. of India
Affiliated By: BEST [Board of Examiners & Seafarer Trust], Mumbai

Eligibility Criteria

  • Pass with aggregate 40% marks in 10th Standard from a recognized Board with Science, Mathematics as subjects and with minimum 40% marks in English language.
  • Pass in 2-Year I.T.I. course from Govt. Approved Institute with minimum 50% aggregate marks in final year and minimum 40% marks in English at 10th or Diploma Exam.

Age Limit

The age of the candidate matters is taken into the consideration during the examination process. According to the general guidelines a candidate must be between 18-25 years of age,OBC 25+3 Years.

GP Rating Course Fees:

The registration fee for the GP Rating course at the College of Maritime Studies is Rs 1.99L

Medical Standards:

Candidates need to meet DGS norms, being physically fit for sea service with 6/6 eyesight and no color blindness.

Career Opportunities:

The six-month Pre-Sea Training Program, approved by the Directorate General of Shipping, prepares trainees for roles as Trainee GP Ratings in the Deck or Engineering Department on merchant ships. The course is conducted twice a year, starting in January and July.

Job Responsibilities of GP Rating on a Ship:
Depending on the chosen department, responsibilities vary:

Deck Department:

Maintenance, navigation assistance, and cargo operations.

Engine Department:

General cleaning and maintenance of the engine room.

Is GP Rating a Good Career Choice?

The GP Rating course is in high demand, offering employment opportunities. Success depends on finding employment or being sponsored by a reputable company or achieving good grades from a recognized educational institution. It presents a chance for an early, attractive salary and a marine-focused lifestyle. However, career progression requires investing more time in sea service.