(Complete Guide 2026)
If you have completed your 12th Board Exam and want to join the Merchant Navy, then clearing the IMU CET 2026 is your first and most important step.
The IMU CET (Indian Maritime University Common Entrance Test) is conducted by Indian Maritime University for admission into courses like:
- DNS (Diploma in Nautical Science)
- B.Sc Nautical Science
- B.Tech Marine Engineering
- B.Tech Naval Architecture
In this blog, you will learn:
- IMU CET preparation strategy after 12th
- Subject-wise preparation tips
- 60-day study plan
- Best coaching for IMU CET
- Study materials and test series details
Why IMU CET is Important for Merchant Navy Career?
Clearing IMU CET gives you admission into top maritime institutes under Indian Maritime University.
After completing your course, you can work as:
- Deck Officer
- Marine Engineer
- Naval Architect
- Ship Officer
The Merchant Navy offers:
✔ High salary
✔ International exposure
✔ Tax benefits
✔ Fast career growth
IMU CET Exam Pattern 2026
Subjects in IMU CET:
- Maths
- Physics
- Chemistry
- English
- Gk and Aptitude
Mode: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
Level: Based on 11th & 12th PCM syllabus (CBSE level)
How to Prepare for IMU CET After 12th – Step-by-Step Strategy
REVISE PCM BASICS FIRST (THUMB RULE)
After board exams, start revision immediately. Below is the given Subjects with the detailed topics for IMU CET Exam 2026. (In other Blog I will elaborate the highest scoring topics)
MATHS
- Sets, Relations and Functions
- Complex Numbers and Quadratic Equations
- Matrices
- Determinants
- Permutations and Combinations
- Binomial Theorem
- Sequences and Series
- Trigonometry
- Straight Lines
- Conic Sections
- Three Dimensional Geometry
- Vector Algebra
- Limits
- Continuity and Differentiability
- Applications of Derivatives
- Integrals
- Applications of Integrals
- Differential Equations
- Probability
- Statistics
Mathematics carries high weightage in IMU CET.
PHYSICS
Important topics:
- Units, Motion and Laws of Motion
- Work, Energy, Power and Rotational Motion
- Gravitation and Properties of Matter
- Heat, Thermodynamics and Kinetic Theory
- Oscillations and Waves
- Electrostatics
- Current Electricity
- Magnetism and Electromagnetic Induction
- Alternating Current and Electromagnetic Waves
- Optics
- Modern Physics
- Semiconductor Electronics and Communication
CHEMISTRY
- Basic Concepts & Atomic Structure
- Periodicity & Bonding
- States, Thermodynamics & Equilibrium
- Solid State, Solutions & Surface Chemistry
- Electrochemistry & Kinetics
- Hydrogen & S-Block
- P, D & F Block Elements
- Metallurgy & Coordination Compounds
- Organic Basics & Hydrocarbons
- Organic Functional Groups
- Biomolecules & Polymers
- Everyday & Environmental Chemistry
Most chemistry questions are concept-based and NCERT oriented.
ENGLISH
Do not ignore English or give it less time.
Focus on:
- Articles (a, an, the)
- Parts of Speech
- Tenses
- Subject-Verb Agreement
- Active & Passive Voice
- Direct & Indirect Speech
- Error detection
- Synonyms & Antonyms
- Idioms & Phrases
- One-word substitutions
- Reading comprehension
English is a highly scoring section if you practice consistently and strategically.
APTITUDE
Logical Reasoning
- Alphabet
- Blood Relations
- Coding Decoding
- Direction and Distance
- Ranking and Sequence
- Syllogism
- Puzzle
- Cube and Dice
- Clock and Calendar
- Analogy
- Classification (Odd one Out)
- Series
- Counting of Figures
- Venn Diagram
- Non Verbal Reasoning (Mirror Image, Paper Folding, Paper Cutting, Embedded Figures, Pattern Completion)
Aptitude (Maths)
- Number System
- LCM & HCF
- Simplification
- Surds & Indices (Basic)
- Percentage
- Profit and Loss
- Ratio and Proportion
- Partnership
- Average
- Time and Work
- Pipes and Cisterns
- Time, Speed and Distance
- Boats and Streams
- Simple Interest & Compound Interest
- Mensuration (Basic)
- Fractions and Decimals
- Linear Equations (Basic)
- Basic Algebraic Identities
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE
- Indian Geography
- Indian History
- Indian Polity
- Sports
- Awards
- Important Days and Dates
- Books and Authors
- Sports and Trophies
- International Organizations
- Defence and Navy Related GK
- Important Ports in India
- Shipping Industry Basics
- National Symbols
- Currency of Countries
- Capitals of Countries
- General Science
- Current Affairs (Last 6–12 Months)
Shipping Knowledge
- Introduction to Merchant Navy
- Types of Ships
- Types of Cargo & Cargo Handling
- Ship Structure & Parts of Ship
- Ranks on Board (Deck & Engine)
- Navigation Basics
- Maritime Terminology
- Safety at Sea (LSA & FFA)
- International Maritime Organization (IMO)
- Important Maritime Conventions (SOLAS, MARPOL, STCW)
- Seafarer Duties & Life at Sea
- Engine Room Knowledge
- Pollution Control & Marine Environmental Protection
- Flags of Convenience & Ship Registration
- Watch keeping System on Ships
- Basic Meteorology for Seafarers
- Maritime Signals & Flags
- Shipping Companies & Career Growth Path
Best Coaching for IMU CET – Why Study Campus?
If you are serious about cracking IMU CET 2026, structured coaching can make a huge difference. Study Campus has been teaching Merchant Navy aspirants for almost 10 years and has helped hundreds of students enter top maritime colleges.
IMU CET Study Materials by Study Campus
We provide:
- Updated IMU CET Notes
- Topic-wise Practice Questions
- Previous Year Question Bank
- Formula Booklet
- Shortcut & Concept Notes
Our study material is specially designed for Merchant Navy entrance exams.
IMU CET Test Series (Highly Recommended)
Our Test Series includes:
- Full-Length Mock Tests
- Topic-wise Tests
- Real Exam Pattern Simulation
- Detailed Performance Analysis
- Speed & Accuracy Improvement
- Regular mock tests increase your selection chances significantly.
Online & Offline IMU CET Coaching Available
We offer both online and classroom coaching.
Offline Coaching Centres (Prime Locations – Opposite Railway Stations):
- Thane
- Borivali
- Andheri
- Vasai
Easy access for students across Mumbai.
Online Classes:
- Live Interactive Lectures
- Recorded Backup
- Online Test Series
- Doubt Solving Sessions
- Students from anywhere in India can join.
Medical Requirements for IMU CET
Apart from clearing IMU CET, students must meet medical standards set by Directorate General of Shipping.
Requirements include:
- Good eyesight
- No colour blindness
- Physically fit
Study Campus also guides students regarding medical procedures and admission counselling.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in IMU CET Preparation
❌ Delaying preparation after 12th
❌ Ignoring mock tests
❌ Not analyzing mistakes
❌ Studying without proper guidance
Final Words – Start Preparing for IMU CET 2026 Today
Clearing IMU CET is absolutely achievable if:
✔ Your PCM basics are strong.
✔ You practice regularly.
✔ You attempt mock tests.
✔ You follow a structured strategy.
With the right guidance, study material, and test series from Study Campus, your Merchant Navy dream can become reality.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – IMU CET 2026
Is IMU CET 2026 difficult?
IMU CET is not extremely difficult if your Class 11 and 12 PCM concepts are clear. The exam level is moderate and mostly based on the CBSE syllabus. With proper preparation and mock test practice, it is manageable.
How many months are required to prepare for IMU CET?
Ideally, 2–3 months of focused preparation after 12th boards are sufficient. If you follow a structured plan and attempt regular mock tests, you can prepare effectively within 60 days.
Is coaching necessary for IMU CET?
Coaching is not mandatory, but structured guidance helps a lot. Many students fail due to lack of strategy, not lack of knowledge. Proper coaching provides syllabus planning, study material, mock tests, and performance analysis.
What is the syllabus of IMU CET?
IMU CET syllabus is based on Class 11 and 12 PCM (CBSE level). It includes:
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Chemistry
- English
- General Knowledge and Aptitude
Does IMU CET have negative marking?
The exam pattern may change as per official notification. Students should always check the latest IMU CET notification before appearing for the exam.
What are the medical requirements for IMU CET?
To join Merchant Navy through IMU CET, students must:
- Have good eyesight
- Not have colour blindness
- Meet DG Shipping medical standards
- Medical fitness is compulsory for admission.
Which subject is most important in IMU CET?
Mathematics usually carries high weightage, but all PCM subjects are important. Strong performance in Maths and Physics significantly improves overall rank.
Can I prepare for IMU CET after 12th board exams?
Yes. Many students start preparation immediately after 12th boards. A focused 60-day strategy is enough to cover high-weightage topics and attempt mock tests.
What courses can I get after clearing IMU CET?
After qualifying IMU CET, students can get admission into:
DNS (Diploma in Nautical Science)
B.Sc Nautical Science
B.Tech Marine Engineering
B.Tech Naval Architecture
How can Study Campus help in IMU CET preparation?
- Study Campus provides:
- Structured classroom and online coaching
- Updated study material
- Topic-wise practice questions
- Full-length mock test series
- Admission and medical guidance
With almost 10 years of experience in Merchant Navy coaching, Study Campus has guided hundreds of successful students.