The entry requirements can vary between shipping companies. In general, the requirements include GCSEs (A-C) including maths, physics and English or equivalent. Engineering graduates also can find opening as merchant navy engineering officers. All candidates must pass medical test to prove physical fitness and eyesight. Openings are also available in foreign cargo ships.

Also, depending on your qualifications, you can take different training programs to become a merchant navy engineering officer. You can consider HND, Foundation Degree, Undergraduate or Graduate route. With HND, you take a three year training program. Eligibility is four GCSEs with maths, science and English. Undergraduate route is for marine engineering or nautical studies graduates. Graduate Route is for science graduates and you'd take an accelerated training program. Merchant navy engineering officer needs to have educational qualifications and practical experience in sailing and seafaring operations. They also are required to have good engineering skills.