In this article, we will reveal the 10 best DG Shipping Approved GP (General Purpose) Rating Colleges in India, so that aspiring mariners can make an informed decision. GP Rating is a 6-month entry-level course to join the Merchant Navy as a deck or engine rating after one clears the Senior Secondary or Class 10th examination. The course contains pre-sea training, which is given before going on a ship. After the completion of training, final examinations are conducted by the Board of Examination of Seafarers (BES) under D.G. Shipping (Govt of India). Once the students clear the exam, they are issued an INDIAN CDC, after which they can sail. In this course, cadets learn seamanship, machine operations, maintenance work on deck, etc. It also includes drills, mast and rope climbing, swimming, fire-fighting practice and workshop training. Image for representation purpose only Many colleges in India offer a GP rating course; however, one should always check the placement records and, most importantly, if that college is DG Shipping approved. Otherwise, the certification will not be considered valid, and you cannot join the Merchant Navy. There are sponsored colleges where you get admission after getting a sponsorship letter from a shipping company. These institutes usually have their own shipping company where they send students for onboard training. If not, they collaborate with other shipping companies to offer training. A sponsorship letter is given only after one clears the sponsorship exams. There are also non-sponsored colleges, where candidates are not required to appear for any exam to gain admission. However, some might conduct their written tests. These colleges provide only pre-sea training and do not guarantee onboard training. Some also give campus placements. Top 10 GP Rating Colleges In India (DG Shipping Approved) 1. Training Ship (TS) Rahaman Located in Mumbai, this institution traces its beginnings to 1910 and since then has expanded to become one of the country’s most reputed maritime institutes, offering about 40 courses, including Pre-Sea, Pre-Sea plus STCW, Post-Sea and other value-added programs. To apply for admission, candidates can visit the official website of the college mentioned below. https://www.tsrahaman.org/pre-sea-general-purpose-rating-training-course/ It also offers sponsorship and placement in the Anglo-Eastern Group, Fleet Management and other reputed shipping companies. Course Duration – 6 Months Fees – Rs. 2,60,000/- Eligibility- 10th standard pass from a government-recognised board with subjects English, Mathematics & Science with 40% aggregate. English 40% in 10th/12th. OR 12th standard (any stream) pass from a government-recognised board with 40% aggregate. English 40% at 10th/12th but with subjects English, Mathematics & Science at 10th. OR Pass in a 2-year ITI course approved by DVET, with minimum 40% aggregate marks in the final year of ITI & minimum 40% in English in 10th/12th. Age: 17 ½ years and not over 25 years on the date of commencement of training. Eye sight: distance vision 6/6 in the better eye and 6/9 in the other eye, and normal colour vision shall be tested by the Ishihara test chart. Medical Fitness Certificate from a Doctor Approved by DGS (Original + one photocopy) 2. The Great Eastern Institute of Maritime Studies (GEIMS) Great Eastern Institute of Maritime Studies (GEIMS), Lonavala, is one of the oldest maritime institutes in India and promises quality education and training to