GP Rating
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the GP Rating course?
The General Purpose (GP) Rating course is a 6-month DG Shipping-approved pre-sea training programme that prepares candidates to join the Merchant Navy as entry-level crew in both the Deck and Engine departments aboard Indian and foreign vessels worldwide.
2. What is the minimum qualification required for GP Rating?
Candidates must have passed their 10th Standard from a recognised board with a minimum of 40% aggregate marks, with Science and Mathematics as compulsory subjects and a minimum of 40% marks in English in the 10th or 12th standard.
3. Can I apply after completing 12th standard or ITI?
Yes. Candidates who have passed 12th Standard from any recognised board, or who hold an ITI qualification in trades such as Fitter, Machinist, Mechanic, Welder, or Turner from a DVET or NCVT-approved institution, are also eligible — provided they meet the English and aggregate requirements.
4. What is the age limit for the GP Rating course?
Yes. Candidates who have passed 12th Standard from any recognised board, or who hold an ITI qualification in trades such as Fitter, Machinist, Mechanic, Welder, or Turner from a DVET or NCVT-approved institution, are also eligible — provided they meet the English and aggregate requirements.
5. Do I need to appear for an entrance exam like IMU-CET?
No. The GP Rating course does not require the IMU-CET entrance examination. Admission is based on educational qualifications, the DG Shipping medical examination, and a basic screening process conducted by the institute.
6. What medical fitness standards are required?
No. The GP Rating course does not require the IMU-CET entrance examination. Admission is based on educational qualifications, the DG Shipping medical examination, and a basic screening process conducted by the institute.
7. How long is the GP Rating course?
The pre-sea training at AMTCR Pali Mumbai is 6 months. Following this, candidates complete a structured period of sea service before becoming eligible for their final certification.
8. What subjects are covered in the GP Rating programme?
The programme covers Maritime English and General Ship Knowledge, Seamanship and Deck Operations, Marine Engineering Knowledge, Practical Workshop Training, STCW Basic Safety Certification, Simulator and Navigation Training, and Physical Training including swimming, drills, and ship visits.
9. What certificates will I receive after completing the course?
On successful completion and passing the Board of Examination of Seafarers (BES) examination conducted by DG Shipping, candidates receive a GP Rating Course Completion Certificate, STCW Basic Safety Certificates, INDOS Registration, and an Indian Continuous Discharge Certificate (CDC).
10. What is the CDC and why is it important?
The Continuous Discharge Certificate (CDC) is the internationally recognised identity and service record document of a professional seafarer. It is essential for joining any Indian or foreign vessel and serves as proof of your certification and sea service throughout your maritime career.
11. What is INDOS Registration?
INDOS stands for Indian National Database of Seafarers. It is a unique identity number assigned to every Indian seafarer, mandatory for joining any vessel. AMTCR assists all cadets with their INDOS registration as part of the programme.
12. What job roles can I get after completing GP Rating?
Graduates join as Trainee Ordinary Seaman, Trainee Fitter, or Trainee Oiler aboard Indian or foreign vessels. With sea service and further qualifications, they progress to Able-Bodied Seaman, Motorman, Bosun, and eventually officer-level positions.
13. What is the starting salary after GP Rating?
Graduates join as Trainee Ordinary Seaman, Trainee Fitter, or Trainee Oiler aboard Indian or foreign vessels. With sea service and further qualifications, they progress to Able-Bodied Seaman, Motorman, Bosun, and eventually officer-level positions.
14. Can I eventually become an officer after starting as a GP Rating?
Yes. With the required sea service and by passing the DGS Certificate of Competency examinations, GP Rating graduates can progressively rise to 3rd Officer, 2nd Officer, Chief Officer, and ultimately Captain of a vessel.
15. Is the GP Rating salary tax-free?
If you qualify as a Non-Resident Indian by spending 183 or more days at sea in a financial year, your income earned at sea is tax-free under Indian tax laws — a significant financial advantage over most land-based careers.
16. Is accommodation provided during training?
Yes. The GP Rating programme at AMTCR Pali Mumbai is fully residential. All cadets are required to stay on campus throughout the training period.
17. Can I avail an educational loan for the GP Rating course?
Yes. AMTCR assists eligible candidates in obtaining educational loans from nationalised banks. The institute’s admission letter and enrolment documents serve as supporting documentation for loan applications.
18. What placement support does AMTCR provide after the course?
AMTCR offers active placement support including campus placement drives, connections with shipping companies and crewing agencies, CDC and BES examination guidance, and alumni network support to help graduates secure their first berth.
19. Are girls eligible to apply for the GP Rating course?
Yes. The GP Rating programme is open to both male and female candidates who meet the eligibility criteria set by DG Shipping.
20. When do new batches commence?
GP Rating batches commence in January and July each year. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply well in advance to secure their seat.