2nd Mate (FG) CoC Equivalent to B.Sc. (Nautical Science) Degree

The Association of Indian Universities (AIU) has issued an important notification for seafarers. On 18th July 2022, AIU officially recognized that the B.Sc. (Nautical Science) degree is equivalent to navigating officers in possession of a 2nd Mate (FG) Certificate of Competency (CoC). This recognition not only gives professional certification academic value but also opens the door for seafarers to access more opportunities in higher education and shore-based careers.

---

What Does the Notification Say?

1. Equivalence Approval
   • The Expert Committee of AIU reviewed the proposal from the Directorate General of Shipping. After careful evaluation, the committee decided that the 2nd Mate (FG) CoC, which certifies a navigating officer as an Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch on ships of 500 GT or more, should be treated as equivalent to a B.Sc. (Nautical Science) degree.
2. Application Process for Mariners
   • Any officer holding a valid 2nd Mate (FG) CoC can now apply to AIU for an equivalence certificate.
   • To complete the process, candidates must:
     • Submit the required documents.
     • Pay the prescribed fees.
   • In addition, the procedure is similar to applying for recognition of foreign qualifications, which makes it straightforward for mariners.
3. AIU Governing Council Approval
   • The AIU Governing Council approved this recommendation during its 369th meeting on 29th June 2022. Consequently, the recognition is officially valid across India and can be used for both professional and academic purposes.
4. Who Benefits?
   • Navigating officers with a 2nd Mate (FG) CoC can now use it as a bachelor’s degree equivalent.
   • As a result, they can:
     • Pursue higher education such as MBA, MSc, or maritime master’s programs.
     • Apply for government and PSU jobs that require a bachelor’s degree.
     • Strengthen immigration and PR applications in countries that recognize AIU equivalence certificates.

---

Why Is This Important?

Until now, many mariners struggled when applying for higher education or shore-based jobs that demanded a degree. However, this recognition changes the situation completely. With the hard-earned 2nd Mate (FG) CoC now carrying the same value as a degree, seafarers gain smoother access to academic programs, government services, and international career prospects.

---

Conclusion

The AIU’s decision to recognize the 2nd Mate (FG) Certificate of Competency as equivalent to a B.Sc. (Nautical Science) marks a significant step for Indian seafarers. It validates professional expertise while also ensuring equal opportunities in education and employment. Moreover, this recognition bridges the gap between academic qualifications and professional maritime competency, empowering seafarers to shape versatile career paths both at sea and ashore.

---

Disclaimer

This article is for educational and informational purposes only. Mariners must obtain the official equivalence certificate from AIU by submitting the required documents and paying the applicable fees. Therefore, candidates should always check the latest guidelines issued by the AIU and the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) before applying.