TNU Diploma Nautical Science: Fees 2026, Course Duration, Dates, Eligibility

Ans. The total fee for the one-year pre-sea Diploma in Nautical Science at The Neotia University is INR 2,61,000 as per the official TNU fee schedule. This covers two semesters of tuition at INR 99,500 each (INR 1,99,000 total) and a one-time admission and registration fee of INR 62,000. Hostel and uniform charges are payable separately. Confirm current amounts at tnu.in.

Ans. Eligibility for DNS at The Neotia University requires passing 10+2 with Physics, Mathematics, and Chemistry with at least 60% aggregate marks and 50% in English. Candidates must be aged 17 to 25, hold a valid passport, and obtain a medical fitness certificate from a DGS-empanelled doctor. A valid IMU-CET rank and a sailing offer letter from a shipping company are also required.

Ans. The DNS programme at TNU covers ship navigation and watchkeeping, cargo handling, maritime safety and STCW conventions, meteorology and oceanography, seamanship, fire fighting, and survival at sea. The one-year pre-sea phase includes classroom instruction and simulator practice, followed by 18 months of onboard training with a shipping company before DGS competency examinations.

Ans. After completing DNS from The Neotia University and the required 18-month onboard training, candidates can appear for DGS Certificate of Competency examinations to qualify as a Deck Officer (Officer of the Watch) in the merchant navy. With sea experience, officers advance to Chief Mate and Master Mariner ranks on Indian and international vessels.

Ans. Yes, a sailing offer letter from a DGS-approved shipping company is required before final admission to the DNS programme at The Neotia University is confirmed. This is a DGS requirement to ensure that candidates have secured a berth for the mandatory 18-month onboard training phase that follows the one-year pre-sea training at TNU.

Ans. B.Sc Nautical Science is a three-year degree programme, while DNS is a one-year pre-sea diploma followed by 18 months of onboard training. Both are DGS-approved and lead to Deck Officer careers, but the B.Sc provides a degree qualification alongside maritime certification. The DNS is a shorter, more direct entry route to the merchant navy for candidates who secure a shipping company offer quickly.