Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS)
Course overview
Navigating Officers hold a key position onboard a vessel, entrusted with the responsibility of safely navigating and steering the ship to its destination. The Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS) is a programme designed by maritime experts to develop skilled and globally competent Navigating Officers. The programme begins with 12 months of pre-sea training ashore, followed by 18 months of structured onboard ship training. On successful completion, cadets become eligible to appear for the B.Sc. (Nautical Science) examination, affiliated with the Indian Maritime University (IMU) and approved by D.G. Shipping.

Eligibility Criteria
Diploma in Nautical Science - Minimum Requirements to Join
Age Limit
20 Years or less on the date of commencement of the course.
Not Eligible Boards
12th via Open / NIOS / Distance Learning are NOT eligible.
Educational Qualification
- PCM in 12th Std: 70% Minimum (Improvement exam not considered)
- English in 12th Std: 70% Minimum (Improvement exam not considered)
- Not more than 2 years gap between 10th & 12th passing year
- Not more than 1 year gap between 12th passing & commencement of pre-sea training
Physical & Medical Standards
- Height: Minimum 160 cm
- BMI: Not more than 25
- Speech & Hearing: Ability within normal range
- Eyesight: 6/6 unaided & No Colour Blindness
Application process
Candidates must apply for the DNS course through online application form and pay the application fee. Further instructions will be sent via email. It is recommended to add info@bioceanmarineservices.com to your contact list to avoid missing updates.
Candidates will receive an email with link for online examination. Test links are sent in batches, so check email regularly. Add info@bioceanmarineservices.com to contact list to prevent mail going to spam. Candidates scoring above cut-off will be invited for interview.
Shortlisted candidates must appear for Combined Entrance Test (CET) conducted by Indian Maritime University (IMU). For detailed information about IMU-CET, visit www.imu.edu.in.
Candidates who clear the cut-off score in online test and meet other eligibility criteria will be invited for personal interview.
Candidates shortlisted after interview must undergo comprehensive medical examination in Mumbai as per Merchant Shipping (Medical Examination) Rules, 2000. Details of medical assessment will be shared by admission team.
Final merit list is prepared based on academic scores, online test, interview and medical test. Selected candidates must pay non-refundable booking amount within given deadline to confirm seat.
After receipt of booking amount, candidate will be issued sponsorship letter with complete training and onboarding details.
Candidates planning to avail education loan should complete loan formalities before joining date. All required documents must be submitted before batch starts for IMU submission. Keep documents ready before interview.
Fee structure
| Sr. No. | Particulars | Amount (Incl. GST) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Admission Fees (Refundable) | 50,000 |
| 2 | DNS Fees | 5,50,000 |
| 3 | Other Documentation and Interview Preparation | 1,00,000 |
| 4 | Onboard Training and Certification | 3,00,000 |
| 5 | Re-joining Documentation and Certification | 1,000 |
| Total | 11,00,000 |