DG Shipping CoC Exam 2026: Dates, Schedule, Centers & Instructions

The Directorate General of Shipping (DG Shipping), Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Government of India, has released an important notice regarding the schedule for the Certification of Competency (CoC) Written Examination for Engineering candidates, including Marine Engineer Officers (MEO) and Electro Technical Officers (ETO), to be held in April 2026. This notification provides crucial details about the exam dates, timings, examination centers, and essential instructions for candidates appearing for this vital certification.

Exam Overview

Detailed Exam Schedule

The examination will be conducted on various dates in April 2026 for different grades and subjects. Candidates are advised to carefully check their specific exam dates and timings.

Examination Centers & Capacity

The CoC Written Examination will be held at various MMD (Mercantile Marine Department) examination centers across India. Each center has a maximum capacity for candidates:

Important Dates & Seat Booking

The process for CoC examination registration, eligibility assessment, and seat booking is transitioning to a new enhanced system. Candidates should note the following:

• A detailed roadmap with all necessary information will be notified on the DG Shipping website by March 25, 2026.
• The seat booking schedule for the April 2026 examination will be enabled, and further details will be communicated on the DG Shipping website by the last week of March 2026.

Candidates appearing for the written examination at MMD Exam Centre Noida should be guided by the NT/ENG Examination Notice issued by DG Shipping on March 12, 2025. This notice is available on the DG Shipping website at https://www.dgshipping.gov.in/writereaddata/News/202503130716043862309EXAMREFORMNOTICEforpilotproject12032025.pdf.

Exam Pattern & Subjects

The examination for various MEO classes (CL-I, CL-II-A, CL-II-B, CL-III NCV SEO (Part-A), CL-IV A, CL-IV-B) and ETO grade covers a wide range of subjects essential for marine engineering competency. The schedule clearly outlines the specific subjects to be tested on each day and during each slot. Key subjects include:

• Engineering Management
• Thermodynamics & Heat Transmission
• Marine Engineering Knowledge (Steam, General, Motor)
• Marine Electro Technology & SSEP
• Mechanics & Hydromechanics
• Marine Engineering Practice
• Heat Engine
• Ship Safety & Environmental Protection
• Applied Mathematics
• Applied Mechanics
• Naval Architecture
• Marine Engineering Drawing
• Engineering Drawing
• Ship Construction & Stability

For a detailed breakdown of topics under each subject, candidates are advised to refer to the official CoC syllabus documents typically available on the DG Shipping website.

Documents Required for Exam Day

Based on standard government examination protocols, candidates are typically required to carry the following to the examination center:

• Admit Card/Seat Booking Confirmation: A printed copy of your official admit card or seat booking confirmation.
• Photo ID Proof: An original, valid government-issued photo identity card (e.g., Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Passport, Driving License, Voter ID).
• Photographs: Two recent passport-size photographs (preferably matching the one uploaded during application/seat booking).
• Writing Instrument: A transparent ballpoint pen.

Note: It is always recommended to check the specific instructions on your admit card/seat booking confirmation for any additional or updated requirements.

Exam Day Instructions & Prohibited Items

Adhering to exam day instructions is crucial for a smooth examination experience. Candidates must follow these guidelines:

Do’s:

• Reach the examination center at least 45 minutes before the commencement of the examination.
• Maintain strict discipline inside the examination center.
• Protect the furniture and IT infrastructure of the examination center.
• Cooperate with the invigilators and follow all their instructions.

Don’ts:

• No candidate will be allowed to leave the examination hall before the examination is over.
• Do not carry any bags, mobile phones, smartwatches, or any other electronic devices inside the exam hall. Such items are strictly prohibited.
• Do not indulge in any unfair means. Any candidate found doing so will face strict action as per Rule 72 of the MS(STCW) Rules, 2014.

Last-Minute Preparation Tips

As the exam dates approach, a strategic approach can significantly boost your performance:

Effective Revision:

• Focus on Key Concepts: Prioritize revisiting important formulas, definitions, and core concepts across all subjects.
• Short Notes: Utilize any short notes or summaries you’ve made during your preparation for quick revision.

Mental and Physical Well-being:

• Adequate Sleep: Ensure you get 7-8 hours of sleep in the nights leading up to the exam.
• Healthy Diet: Eat light and nutritious meals to keep your mind active and avoid lethargy.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay fresh and focused.

Logistics Check:

• Locate Center: Confirm the exact location of your exam center and plan your commute to arrive well in advance.
• Gather Documents: Keep your admit card/seat booking confirmation and ID proof ready the day before.

What to Expect on Exam Day

Understanding the typical exam environment can help reduce anxiety:

• Security Protocols: Expect thorough security checks, which may include frisking and biometric verification, before entering the examination hall.
• Seating Arrangement: Follow the seating plan provided by the invigilators.
• Invigilator Briefing: Pay close attention to all instructions given by the invigilator regarding the question paper, answer sheet, and general rules.
• Question Paper Format: The written examination will likely consist of objective or descriptive questions depending on the specific CoC grade and subject. Manage your time effectively.
• Maintain Composure: It’s normal to feel some pressure. Stay calm, read questions carefully, and attempt what you know best first.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: When will the admit cards for the CoC Written Examination April 2026 be released?

A1: The seat booking schedule for the April 2026 examination will be enabled, and details communicated on the DG Shipping website by the last week of March 2026. This confirmation will serve as your entry pass.

Q2: What documents are mandatory to carry to the exam center?

A2: Candidates must carry their printed seat booking confirmation/admit card and a valid original photo identity proof. Two passport-size photographs are also advisable.

Q3: Are electronic devices allowed inside the examination hall?

A3: No, candidates are strictly prohibited from carrying any bags, phones, smartwatches, or any other electronic devices into the examination hall.

Q4: What is the reporting time for the CoC Written Examination?

A4: All candidates must reach the examination center at least 45 minutes before the commencement of the examination.

Q5: Can I leave the examination hall before the exam concludes?

A5: No candidate will be allowed to leave the examination hall before the examination is over.

Q6: Where can I find the detailed syllabus for each subject?

A6: The official notification provides the subject names. For a detailed syllabus, candidates should refer to the relevant CoC examination guidelines and previous year’s information available on the DG Shipping website.

Q7: What happens if a candidate is found using unfair means?

A7: Any candidate found indulging in unfair means during the exam will face action as per Rule 72 of the MS(STCW) Rules, 2014, which could include disqualification and other penalties.

Q8: Will there be separate instructions for MMD Exam Centre Noida candidates?

A8: Yes, candidates appearing at MMD Exam Centre Noida should refer to the NT/ENG Examination Notice issued by DG Shipping on March 12, 2025, which is available on their official website for specific guidance.