GP Rating Course: Opportunities, Eligibility, Career Path, and Benefits
Introduction
The GP Rating (General Purpose Rating) course is a popular maritime training program that prepares candidates for a career at sea as skilled deck and engine crew members. It is an excellent entry point for those who aspire to work in the merchant navy without extensive academic qualifications.
In this blog post, we will explore:
What is the GP Rating Course?
Eligibility Criteria
Career Opportunities after GP Rating
Career Growth & Path
Benefits of Pursuing GP Rating
What is the GP Rating Course?
The GP Rating (formerly known as G.P. Rating or General Purpose Rating) is a 1-year maritime training program recognized by the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), India. It certifies candidates to work as deck and engine crew on merchant navy ships.
The course covers:
Deck Duties (Navigation, Cargo Handling, Ship Maintenance)
Engine Duties (Machinery Maintenance, Engine Room Operations)
Safety Training (Firefighting, Survival at Sea, First Aid)
After completing the course, candidates receive a Certificate of Competency (CoC) and can join ships as Ratings (semi-skilled crew).
Eligibility Criteria for GP Rating
To enroll in the GP Rating course, candidates must meet the following requirements:
Educational Qualification:
Class 10th (SSLC) pass with at least 40% marks in English, Science, and Mathematics.
OR
Class 12th (HSC) pass with 40% marks in English, Science, and Mathematics (Physics, Chemistry, Maths preferred).
Age Limit:
Minimum Age: 17.5 years
Maximum Age: 25 years (relaxable for reserved categories)
Medical Fitness:
Candidates must pass a medical examination from a DGS-approved doctor.
Good eyesight (6/6 vision) and no color blindness.
Other Requirements:
Indian Citizenship
Passport (mandatory for international shipping jobs)
Career Opportunities After GP Rating
After completing the GP Rating course, candidates can work in various roles on merchant navy ships, including:
Deck Department:
Deck Cadet → Able Seaman (AB) → Bosun → Chief Officer → Captain
Roles: Navigation, cargo operations, ship maintenance.
Engine Department:
Engine Cadet → Oiler/Fitter → Motorman → Fourth Engineer → Chief Engineer
Roles: Machinery maintenance, engine room operations.
Salaries & Earnings:
Starting Salary: ₹25,000 – ₹40,000 per month (as a Trainee Rating)
Experienced Ratings: ₹50,000 – ₹1,00,000+ per month
International Ships: Higher pay in USD (tax-free earnings in many cases)
Career Growth & Path
The GP Rating course is just the beginning. With experience and further certifications, candidates can climb the ranks:
Deck Side Career Progression:
GP Rating (Deck) → Able Seaman (AB) → Bosun
Complete 36 months of sea service → Appear for NCV (Mate) Exam
Become a Navigating Officer → Chief Officer → Captain
Engine Side Career Progression:
GP Rating (Engine) → Oiler/Fitter → Motorman
Complete 36 months of sea service → Appear for Marine Engineer Exam
Become an Engine Officer → Second Engineer → Chief Engineer
Benefits of Pursuing GP Rating
Quick Entry into Merchant Navy – No long-duration degree required.
High Salary & Tax-Free Earnings – Especially on international ships.
Global Exposure – Travel to different countries while working.
Career Growth – Opportunity to become an officer with experience.
Job Security – High demand for skilled maritime professionals.
Adventure & Lifestyle – Exciting work environment at sea.
The GP Rating course is an excellent choice for those who want to start a career in the merchant navy without extensive academic qualifications. With good pay, global opportunities, and career growth, it is a rewarding path for hardworking individuals.
If you meet the eligibility criteria and are ready for an adventurous career at sea, GP Rating could be your gateway to the maritime world!
Would you like more details on top GP Rating institutes or how to apply?
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