Required Qualifications
Academic entry requirements
If the student has passed (or is expecting to pass) five Standard Grades (or GCSEs) including Maths, English and Physics, then a career in the Merchant Navy could be the career for them.
Note: Physics can be substituted by Technological Studies or, in the case of Deck Officers, Chemistry will be accepted.
What about degree courses?
Application for a degree course will require good passes in Maths and Physics Higher or A Level. The grades required will depend on which University the candidate wishes to apply to. Visit the individual college websites for specific requirements.
What if the student is already studying for an Engineering Degree?
If the student is at present studying for an engineering degree they may be able to obtain sponsorship for the last two years of their degree. After they finish their degree they will then go on to complete further training at sea and short courses to ultimately obtain the Officer-of-the-Watch qualification which will allow them to sail as an Engineering Officer on any vessel in the world. Contact one of the Training Companies to find out more.
Medical entry requirements
All trainees will need to be able to pass the MCA Seafarer Medical exam. Seafarer Medicals are carried out by approved doctors and the doctor should be satisfied that no disease or defect is present which could be aggravated by working at sea or present a risk to the seafarer. They will also be required to meet the Eyesight Requirements of the MCA Medical Exam. Applicants with colour deficiency will not be accepted.
Other entry requirements
All Officer Trainees must be a National of a member state of the European Union and must be ordinarily resident in the UK.
If you have any questions on academic or medical entry requirements to be a Merchant Navy Officer you can contact one of the Training Companies who will answer any questions you may have.