GP Rating Course
Kickstart Your Maritime Career with GP Rating – Heroical Marine Services
What is GP Rating Course?
The GP Rating (General Purpose Rating) Course offered by Heroical Marine Services Pvt. Ltd. is a 6-month residential pre-sea training course approved by the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), Government of India, for students who have completed the 10th standard or equivalent. This course provides students with knowledge, skill, and discipline to help them enter a career in the Merchant Navy as an aspiring Seafarer. This course contains Deck and Engine Room training, so that candidates can be versatile in different roles required on board ships. This course includes maritime training that includes seamanship, handling and stowing cargo, machinery operations, maintenance duties, and safety drills. Practical exposure includes swimming, taking on risk assessment tasks such as rope and mast climbing, swimming whilst wearing clothes, swimming to a designated area over a distance, visits to ships, fire-fighting drills, and handling lifesaving appliances. This has provided each candidate with a structured sequence of training about the Merchant Navy and they will gain certification which is recognized internationally to work within both Indian and international shipping companies. Graduates will be well equipped ready to work and take on the challenges and experiences of life at sea.
What You Will Learn from the Course?
- Seamanship and cargo handling skills
- Machinery operation and maintenance
- Safety drills and emergency preparedness
- Swimming, rope climbing, and mast climbing
- Workshop-based technical training
- Firefighting drills and practices
- Lifesaving appliance usage and handling
- Ship visits and real-time exposure
Career Opportunities After GP Rating Course
After completing the GP Rating Course, candidates appear for examinations conducted by the Board of Examination for Seafarers under the Directorate General of Shipping. On successfully clearing these exams, students receive the Indian CDC (Continuous Discharge Certificate), making them eligible for roles in Indian and international shipping companies. Career options include Trainee Ordinary Seaman, Trainee Oiler, Trainee Fitter, and Trainee GP Rating. With experience, additional certifications, and sea service, candidates can progress to senior positions. The course provides a strong foundation for long-term career growth in the Merchant Navy while offering practical skills, discipline, and opportunities for international employment.
Eligibility Criteria of the Course
To enroll in the GP Rating Course at Heroical Marine Services Pvt. Ltd., candidates must meet specific academic and medical standards. These requirements ensure that students are physically, mentally, and educationally prepared to handle the challenges of life at sea. Meeting the eligibility criteria guarantees that candidates can successfully complete the program, gain certification, and secure employment in Indian and international shipping companies.
Career Progression Path After GP Rating
The career path after GP Rating is structured, offering steady growth and leadership opportunities in the Merchant Navy.
- Pre-Sea Training – Six months residential training approved by DG Shipping.
- Trainee Ordinary Seaman – Initial onboard role with 12 months sailing experience.
- Watchkeeping Certificate – Issued after completing the required sea service.
- Able Seaman (AB) – Promotion after 12–18 months of sea experience.
- Bosun – Leadership role managing deck operations and team coordination.
- Officer of the Watch – Requires 30 months sea service and successful exams.
- 3rd Officer → Chief Officer → Master – Career progression to Captain/Master after experience.
Course Duration and Approval
- Duration – 6 months residential pre-sea training program for GP Rating.
- Approval – Recognized by Directorate General of Shipping, Government of India.
- Affiliation – Linked with BEST (Board of Examiners & Seafarer Trust), Mumbai.
- Global Recognition – Certification allows employment with Indian and international shipping companies.
- Structured Training – Combines theory, practical sessions, and onboard exposure.
Course Highlights
- Deck and Engine Training – Hands-on training in both ship departments.
- Workshop Practice – Technical and operational skill development sessions.
- Swimming & Climbing – Builds physical strength, stamina, and discipline.
- Firefighting Drills – Prepares for emergencies and onboard safety measures.
- Safety Exercises – Lifesaving drills and usage of safety equipment.
- Ship Visits – Real-time exposure to working ships and machinery.
- Skill Development – Enhances teamwork, leadership, and discipline.
- Balanced Learning – Combination of theoretical knowledge and practical application.
Admission Process for GP Rating Course
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Step 1 | Application Submission – Candidates must submit the completed application form directly to Heroical Marine Services Pvt. Ltd. for initial consideration. |
| Step 2 | Institute Screening – The institute may conduct an aptitude or suitability test to assess the candidate’s readiness for seafaring training. |
| Step 3 | No Common Entrance – Admission to the GP Rating course does not require any national-level or common entrance examination. |
| Step 4 | Medical Examination – Candidates must undergo a detailed medical check-up ensuring physical fitness and eyesight standards as per DGS norms. |
| Step 5 | Seat Allocation – Admissions are offered strictly on a first-come, first-served basis depending on the availability of seats in the batch. |
| Step 6 | Batch Assignment – Candidates are assigned to batches starting in January or July each year, based on seat availability. |
| Step 7 | Document Verification – All submitted academic and medical certificates are thoroughly checked and verified for authenticity and correctness. |
| Step 8 | Final Enrollment – Admission is confirmed only after successful completion of all steps, including screening, medical clearance, and document verification. |
