Upper age by course (General category)
- CourseAge on the day it starts
- DNS (deck officer)25
- B.Sc. Nautical Science (deck officer)25
- B.Tech Marine Engineering25
- Graduate deck course18 to 25
- GME (graduate marine engineer)28
- Marine engineering for diploma holders28
- GP Rating17½ to 28
- ETO (electro-technical officer)35
Extra years
- SC and ST candidates: 5 more years.
- OBC (non-creamy layer) candidates: 3 more years.
- Women: a further 2 years, in every category.
For example, an SC woman can join DNS up to the age of 32. These relaxations apply to the officer courses listed in the DG Shipping rules. Confirm with the institute for your course.
Common questions
When is my age counted?
On the day the course begins. It is not counted on the day you apply or sit the entrance test.
I am 25 and a half. Can I still join DNS?
Not as a General candidate. The limit is 25 on the day the course starts. SC, ST and OBC (non-creamy layer) candidates and women get extra years.
Is there an age limit after I join?
Not for promotion. Once you are a seafarer, you can take the higher certificate exams at any age. You must stay medically fit.
Sources
- DG Shipping Training Circular 12 of 2020 and its amendments (age limits and relaxations)
- DGS Order 12 of 2026 (GP Rating upper age raised to 28)
This page is general guidance. The institute, the company and the approved doctor make the final decisions.