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DNS with Sponsorship: Why It’s the Smartest Way to Start a Merchant Navy Career
If you’ve just completed your 12th with Physics, Chemistry, and Maths, and dream of a career at sea, you’ve probably heard about DNS (Diploma in Nautical Science leading to B.Sc Nautical science).
But there’s one key phrase that makes all the difference: “DNS with Sponsorship.”
So what is it, and why is it more preferred than other merchant navy courses? Let’s break it down.
What is DNS?
DNS (Diploma in Nautical Science) is a 1-year residential pre-sea training program.
After successful completion, you join a ship as a Deck Cadet and complete 18 months of sea time.
You then appear for 2nd Mate (FG) CoC, and move up the ranks to Officer, and Captain. The DNS route is fast, structured, and leads directly into a professional seafaring career.
DNS is not just a diploma course — it’s a smart, industry-integrated B.Sc. Nautical Science program.
While the first two semesters are classroom-based, Semesters 3, 4, and 5 happen onboard a ship — where you’re not just learning, but also earning a stipend as a trainee.
In Semester 6, you’re preparing for the 2nd Mate exams conducted by DG Shipping, Government of India, which are mandatory for becoming a licensed Third Officer.
Whether you choose DNS or B.Sc. Nautical Science, you’ll still need to clear the same government exams to get your Officer’s license. So ask yourself — Do I want to start earning earlier while gaining the same qualification?
DNS with sponsorship gives you that edge
What Does “Sponsorship” Mean?
A sponsored candidate is selected by a shipping company before joining a maritime college.
That means: Guaranteed job after course completion.
No waiting, no uncertainty.
Pre-approved medicals and training.
You’re being groomed for a long-term career with the company.
It’s like getting a job offer before college starts!
After successful completion of pre-sea course (DNS) you will be joining the ship for your training and after clearing exams (2MFG), getting COC you will join the same sponsored company as an Officer.
Why DNS with Sponsorship is Preferred Over Other Merchant Navy Course
Shorter course. Less expense. Faster income. Better security.
| Feature | DNS (With Sponsorship) | B.Sc. Nautical Science | B.Tech Marine Engineering |
|---|---|---|---|
Duration |
1 year + sea time |
3 years |
4 years |
Job Security |
High (Pre-confirmed job) |
No guaranteed placement |
No guaranteed placement |
Cost |
Lower (shorter duration) |
Higher |
Higher |
Company Tie-up |
Yes |
No (unless placed later) |
No (unless placed later) |
Time to Earn |
After 1.5 years |
After 3 years |
After 4 years |
The Real Importance of Sponsorship
1. Avoid the job struggle – Un-sponsored candidates often complete their course but struggle to get placed.
2. Focus on learning – You already have a job secured, so your energy stays on mastering skills.
3. Backed by DG Shipping – As per DGS Circular 12 of 2020, all MTIs must admit students based on IMU-CET and sponsorship is highly encouraged.
4. Better growth opportunities – Sponsored cadets often get promoted faster within the same company.
Who Should Choose DNS with Sponsorship?
12th pass students (PCM, English, medically fit).
Dreamers who want to join sea life early, without wasting time. Aspirants who are serious about a long-term career in the Merchant Navy.
Eligibility for DNS with Sponsorship:
To join the DNS (Diploma in Nautical Science) course with sponsorship, the candidate must have passed Class 12 (HSC) with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) and a minimum of 60% aggregate marks. English must be passed with at least 50% marks in either Class 10 or 12.
Age should be between 17 and 25 years at the time of course commencement. The candidate must also be medically fit, as per DG Shipping standards, with 6/6 vision in both eyes (no color blindness).
To secure sponsorship, aspirants are required to clear company-specific exams and interviews before joining the course. Most reputed companies sponsor candidates only after they clear the IMU-CET entrance exam.
Caution: Always Choose DGS-Approved Colleges & Companies
Avoid agents and fake promises. Ensure:
The institute is DGS-approved.
The company is RPSL-registered.
You’ve cleared IMU-CET.
Sponsorship is confirmed in writing.
Final Words: It’s Not Just a Course, It’s a Career Launchpad
Choosing DNS with Sponsorship is like boarding a ship with a destination already set. You skip the uncertainty, save years, and start earning faster — all while growing in a rewarding international career.
Important reminder to Parents:
If your child chooses DNS with sponsorship, they’re not settling for a diploma — they will still get a B.Sc. Nautical Science degree, just like in the regular 3-year course. The difference? After one year, they join a ship, start earning, and gain real experience. They’ll also appear for the same DG Shipping exams to become an officer. With DNS, they begin their career earlier — with job security and a degree in hand.
