![Samundra Institute of Maritime Studies - [SIMS]](https://img.collegedunia.com/public/college_data/images/logos/col16860.jpg?h=71.7&w=71.7&mode=stretch)
Samundra Institute of Maritime Studies (SIMS) is a premier maritime training institution established in 2002, promoted by the Executive Group of Companies, Singapore. The institute is affiliated to the Indian Maritime University (IMU), Chennai and approved by the Directorate General of Shipping (DG Shipping), India at Grade A1. SIMS is one of India’s largest private maritime academies and serves as the training arm of Executive Ship Management (ESM), one of the world’s major ship management companies.
SIMS does not participate in NIRF rankings, as its regulatory oversight comes from DG Shipping and IMU rather than the NAAC-NIRF framework. Within the maritime education sector, SIMS is DG Shipping Grade A1 certified, the highest recognition for a maritime training institute in India.
The pre-sea training campus is located at Village Takwe Khurd, NH4 (Mumbai-Pune Highway), Lonavala, District Pune, Maharashtra. The post-sea training facility is in Mumbai. SIMS houses a ship-in-campus facility, full-mission bridge simulators, engine room simulators, and dedicated marine engineering workshops aligned to international maritime standards.
SIMS offers pre-sea and post-sea maritime programmes:
- Pre-Sea (flagship): B.Tech Marine Engineering (4 years), Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS)
- Pre-Sea (short track): Graduate Marine Engineering (GME), Marine Electro Technical Officer (METO)
- Lateral Entry: B.Tech Marine Engineering Lateral (3 years, for Diploma holders)
- Post-Sea: DG Shipping approved upgrade, certificate of competency courses, dynamic positioning (DP) training
The total fees for B.Tech Marine Engineering are INR 21,97,800 for the full 4-year programme. Diploma in Nautical Science fees are INR 8,32,800. GME fees are INR 7,21,600 and METO fees are INR 4,46,600.
SIMS guarantees 100% placement on ESM-managed vessels upon successful completion of its pre-sea programmes. Trainees begin with a shipboard stipend of USD 500 per month as junior engineers, escalating to officer-level salaries within 3 to 4 years of sea service.
SIMS Admission Dates 2026
SIMS B.Tech Marine Engineering admissions for 2026-27 are primarily based on IMU-CET (Indian Maritime University Common Entrance Test) scores. After qualifying IMU-CET, candidates go through a SIMS-specific selection process. GME and DNS admissions follow a separate schedule and run across multiple batches in a year.
| Event | Date / Status |
|---|---|
| IMU-CET 2026 (B.Tech gateway exam) | Conducted in 2026 |
| SIMS Online Test and Psychometric Test | Post IMU-CET, rolling |
| Personal Interview | Post shortlisting |
| B.Tech 2026-27 Batch Status | Open (check SIMS portal) |
| GME Admissions | Open (limited seats, multiple batches per year) |
| DNS Admissions | Batch-wise, check SIMS portal |
The table below summarises the admission pathway and qualification basis for each programme family.
| Programme | Qualifying Exam / Basis | 2026 Status |
|---|---|---|
| B.Tech Marine Engineering (4 years) | IMU-CET + SIMS Test + Interview | Open |
| B.Tech Lateral (3 years) | Diploma in relevant field + SIMS selection | Open |
| Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS) | 10+2 merit + SIMS selection | Batches open |
| Graduate Marine Engineering (GME) | B.Tech/B.E. degree in Engineering + SIMS selection | Open (limited seats) |
| Marine Electro Technical Officer (METO) | Diploma/B.Tech in Electrical or Electronics + SIMS selection | Open |
SIMS Courses and Fees
SIMS offers a focused portfolio of maritime programmes approved by DG Shipping and affiliated to IMU. All programmes lead to qualifications recognised globally under STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers) standards.
| Course | Duration | Eligibility | Total Fees |
|---|---|---|---|
| B.Tech Marine Engineering | 4 years | 10+2 PCM 60%, English 50%, IMU-CET | INR 21,97,800 |
| B.Tech Marine Engineering (Lateral) | 3 years | Diploma in relevant field, SIMS selection | INR 16,68,650 |
| Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS) | 1 year pre-sea | 10+2 PCM 60%, English 50% | INR 8,32,800 |
| Graduate Marine Engineering (GME) | 1 year pre-sea | B.Tech/B.E. in Engineering, SIMS test | INR 7,21,600 |
| Marine Electro Technical Officer (METO) | Varies | Diploma/B.Tech in Electrical or Electronics | INR 4,46,600 |
Post-sea courses (DG Shipping upgrade courses, DP training) have separate fee structures available directly from the SIMS post-sea facility in Mumbai. SIMS fees cover tuition, simulation training, and onboard practical components.
SIMS Admission Process
B.Tech Marine Engineering
B.Tech Marine Engineering admission at SIMS follows a multi-stage process. Candidates must have passed 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics with a minimum of 60% marks and 50% in English.
- Stage 1: Qualify IMU-CET (Indian Maritime University Common Entrance Test), conducted by NTA.
- Stage 2: Clear the SIMS Online Aptitude Test.
- Stage 3: Psychometric Test for seafarer aptitude assessment.
- Stage 4: Personal Interview at SIMS campus.
- Medical Clearance: Candidates must pass an ENG 1 / MLM 2 medical fitness test (standard maritime medical requirement).
The IMU-CET is conducted by NTA and covers Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and English. A valid IMU-CET rank is the primary gateway. SIMS does not publish a fixed IMU-CET cutoff, as selection is based on a composite merit including test performance, psychometric score, and interview outcome.
Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS)
DNS is a 1-year pre-sea training programme for candidates who wish to serve as Deck Officers (Navigating Officers). Eligibility requires 10+2 with PCM, 60% marks, and 50% in English. Selection is through a SIMS-specific test and interview, and medical fitness is mandatory.
Graduate Marine Engineering (GME)
GME is a 1-year pre-sea programme designed for B.Tech/B.E. Engineering graduates who wish to join the merchant marine as marine engineers. Selection is through a SIMS entrance test, interview, and medical examination. This is a faster pathway to an Officer of the Watch (Marine Engineer) berth compared to the 4-year B.Tech.
Marine Electro Technical Officer (METO)
METO training is available for candidates with a Diploma or B.Tech in Electrical or Electronics Engineering. This pathway trains students as shipboard Electro Technical Officers, a growing specialisation in modern vessels with advanced electrical and automation systems.
SIMS Placements and Career Outcomes
SIMS guarantees 100% placement on Executive Ship Management (ESM) vessels upon successful programme completion. ESM is one of the world’s largest ship management companies, managing over 170 vessels globally. This in-house placement model makes SIMS one of the few maritime academies in India with a guaranteed shipboard posting for graduates.
Career progression follows the international maritime rank structure. Starting as a Junior Engineer or Navigating Officer Cadet, seafarers typically progress to Officer of the Watch (OOW) within 3 to 4 years of sea service and to Chief Engineer or Master within 10 to 15 years, depending on their pathway.
| Career Stage | Typical Remuneration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Junior Engineer / Cadet (Training) | USD 500 per month (stipend) | During compulsory sea training period |
| Fourth / Third Engineer | USD 1,500 to USD 2,500 per month | After first CoC (Certificate of Competency) |
| Second Engineer | USD 4,000 to USD 6,000 per month | After 5 to 8 years sea service |
| Chief Engineer | USD 8,000 to USD 12,000 per month | Senior rank, 12 to 15 years experience |
Graduates from the DNS pathway progress on the navigational side: Deck Officer, Officer of the Watch, Chief Officer, and Master (Captain). Chief Engineers and Masters on international vessels are among the highest-earning professions accessible via a maritime degree in India.
SIMS Scholarships
SIMS does not publish a formal institutional scholarship programme publicly. Candidates from economically weaker backgrounds may access government schemes available for technical education, including the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) and state-level EBC freeship schemes applicable to their home state. Candidates are advised to check directly with the SIMS admissions office for any merit-based fee concession schemes at the time of application.
SIMS Campus and Infrastructure
The SIMS pre-sea training campus is located at Village Takwe Khurd, on the NH4 Mumbai-Pune Highway, Lonavala, Pune district, Maharashtra. The campus includes a ship-in-campus facility providing students hands-on onboard exposure without leaving the training site. Infrastructure includes full-mission bridge simulators, engine room simulators, marine engineering workshops, liquid cargo handling simulators, and a dedicated fire-fighting training facility.
The post-sea training facility in Mumbai handles DG Shipping-mandated refresher courses, Certificate of Competency (CoC) upgrade modules, dynamic positioning (DP) training, and safety certification courses. Campus facilities include library, hostels, laboratories, sports facilities, transport, cafeteria, medical support, and Wi-Fi connectivity. The Lonavala setting provides a focused residential training environment away from urban distractions.
SIMS vs T.S. Chanakya vs MERI Kolkata
Aspirants applying to SIMS for B.Tech Marine Engineering or DNS also consider T.S. Chanakya (IMU Mumbai Campus) and MERI Kolkata (Marine Engineering and Research Institute, now IMU Kolkata), the two government maritime institutes of equivalent stature in India. The primary distinctions are fee structure, placement guarantee model, and infrastructure ownership.
| Parameter | SIMS Lonavala | T.S. Chanakya (IMU Mumbai) | MERI Kolkata (IMU Kolkata) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type | Private (ESM-backed), DG Shipping Grade A1 | Government (IMU Campus) | Government (IMU Campus) |
| Location | Lonavala (Pune district), Maharashtra | Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra | Kolkata, West Bengal |
| B.Tech Marine Engg. Fees | INR 21,97,800 | Government rates (significantly lower) | Government rates (significantly lower) |
| Admission Gateway | IMU-CET + SIMS Test | IMU-CET | IMU-CET |
| Placement Model | 100% guaranteed on ESM vessels | Campus placements, industry | Campus placements, industry |
| DG Shipping Status | Grade A1 | Government IMU campus | Government IMU campus |
T.S. Chanakya and MERI Kolkata offer significantly lower fees as government campuses, with broad industry placement access. SIMS offers a premium private campus experience with a guaranteed ESM posting, which is valuable for candidates prioritising job security over lower fees. An aspirant with financial flexibility and a preference for a guaranteed first ship posting would find SIMS distinctive. Government institute aspirants should target T.S. Chanakya or MERI through IMU-CET.
SIMS FAQs
Ques. Is SIMS (Samundra) a good maritime institute?
Ans. Yes. SIMS holds DG Shipping Grade A1 recognition, the highest rating for a maritime training institute in India, and is affiliated to the Indian Maritime University (IMU). It offers a guaranteed in-house placement on Executive Ship Management (ESM) vessels. SIMS is backed by one of the world’s major ship management groups, which distinguishes it from most private maritime institutes.
Ques. What is the total fee for B.Tech Marine Engineering at SIMS?
Ans. The total fees for B.Tech Marine Engineering (4 years) at SIMS is INR 21,97,800. This is a private institute fee structure. Government maritime institutes like T.S. Chanakya (IMU Mumbai) charge significantly lower fees but have more competitive IMU-CET cutoffs.
Ques. What entrance exam is required for SIMS B.Tech Marine Engineering?
Ans. Admission to B.Tech Marine Engineering at SIMS requires qualifying IMU-CET (Indian Maritime University Common Entrance Test), conducted by NTA. After IMU-CET, candidates must clear a SIMS online aptitude test, a psychometric assessment, and a personal interview. A medical fitness certificate (ENG 1/MLM 2) is also mandatory.
Ques. Does SIMS guarantee placement?
Ans. Yes. SIMS guarantees 100% placement on vessels managed by Executive Ship Management (ESM), the parent company of SIMS. Graduating cadets are placed as junior engineers or navigating officers on ESM-managed vessels. The starting stipend is USD 500 per month during the compulsory sea training period, increasing with promotions to Third and Fourth Engineer or Deck Officer ranks.
Ques. What is the salary of a SIMS marine engineer after graduation?
Ans. Immediately after joining as a Junior Engineer on an ESM vessel, the monthly stipend is USD 500. After earning a Certificate of Competency (CoC) and qualifying for Third or Fourth Engineer rank (typically within 3 to 4 years), monthly earnings rise to USD 1,500 to USD 2,500. Chief Engineers on international vessels can earn USD 8,000 to USD 12,000 per month after 12 to 15 years of sea service.
Ques. Where is SIMS located?
Ans. The SIMS pre-sea training campus is at Village Takwe Khurd, NH4 Mumbai-Pune Highway, Lonavala, District Pune, Maharashtra. The post-sea training facility is in Mumbai. While listed under Mumbai for administrative purposes, the main residential campus is in Lonavala.
Ques. What is the difference between B.Tech Marine Engineering and GME at SIMS?
Ans. B.Tech Marine Engineering is a 4-year degree programme for 10+2 PCM students (INR 21,97,800 total fees) leading to a B.Tech degree and marine engineer certification. GME (Graduate Marine Engineering) is a 1-year pre-sea programme for existing B.Tech/B.E. Engineering degree holders (INR 7,21,600 fees), providing a faster route to a shipboard marine engineer posting. GME is the preferred option for Engineering graduates who want to join the merchant navy without completing a full 4-year marine engineering degree.
Comments
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There is no official information available online regarding the cutoff for the IMU CET at the Jamundra Institute of Maritime Studies.
Samundra Institute of Maritime Studies (SIMS) offers an Electro Technical Officer (ETO) course. This program is designed to train individuals to handle the electrical and electronic systems aboard merchant ships, a role distinct from traditional marine engineers who focus on engine operations
The IUM-CET (Indian Maritime University Common Entrance Test) for admission to the 2025 batch at Samundra Institute of Maritime Studies (SIMS), Lonavala is expected to be conducted in June 2025 (tentative).
The Samundra Institute of Maritime Studies (SIMS) was established by Executive Ship Management (ESM) Private Limited, a ship management company based in Singapore. The institute commenced operations on August 1, 2005, with the aim of providing advanced maritime education and training.
You need to provide your Transfer certificate mandatorily to get admission to UG course and you need to reach out to your 12th school for the same. Else, you can also provide digilocker documents.
Yes, you need to appear for IMU-CET to get admission followed by counselling. Yes, you can join courses with less fees based on your family income structure.
Admission to all the courses is conducted on the basis of merit in the online entrance test. For BTech and DNS programs, candidates are also required to clear IMU-CET.
Total fees for Diploma in Natural Science is INR 7.26 Lakhs at SIMS Mumbai.
Admission to SIMS Mumbai is based on IMU-CET score and you need to qualify for it. However, if you have missed it you can apply for the next session for the same.
No, admission to Maritime Institute is not open now and will begin after 2nd week of June 2023.
Actually I am Intrested in this Samundra maritime institute for Bsc nautical science and want to become a captain at shps . what will be eligibility criteria?
The nautical engineering specialization is available in the B.Tech course only. You must have passed the 12th class from a recognized board and must have a valid score in IMU CET.