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Indian Maritime University - Kolkata Campus (IMU Kolkata) is a campus of Indian Maritime University (IMU), a Central University established in 2008 under an Act of Parliament, under the administrative control of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Government of India. The Kolkata campus traces its roots to the Marine Engineering and Research Institute (MERI), established in 1949, making it one of India’s oldest maritime training institutions. IMU is recognised by the University Grants Commission (UGC).
The campus is located at P-19, Taratola Road, Kolkata - 700 088, West Bengal. The fully residential campus accommodates over 800 cadets across four hostel buildings, with a gymnasium, swimming pool, and 24-hour Wi-Fi access.
IMU Kolkata offers a focused range of maritime programmes:
- B.Tech Marine Engineering - 4 years, leading to a seafaring career as a Marine Engineer Officer on merchant vessels
- B.Tech Marine Engineering (Lateral Entry) - 3 years, for diploma holders
- MBA in International Transportation and Logistics Management - 2 years
- M.Tech Marine Engineering - 2 years
- M.S. (Research) - 2 years
- Ph.D. in maritime disciplines
The total fees for B.Tech Marine Engineering is INR 11.40 Lakhs for the four-year programme. MBA and M.Tech fees are INR 5.90 Lakhs for two years. IMU offers merit-based institutional scholarships ranging from INR 50,000 to INR 1 Lakh per semester for the top-performing students across its campuses.
IMU campus placements recorded a highest package of INR 24 LPA and an average of INR 8 LPA. Leading global shipping companies including NYK Line, Chevron, MSC, Fleet Management, and Anglo-Eastern participate in campus placements.
IMU Kolkata Admission Dates 2026
Admissions for the 2026-27 academic session at IMU Kolkata were anchored by the IMU Common Entrance Test (IMU-CET), a national-level online CBT conducted by Indian Maritime University. The 2026-27 cycle has concluded, with IMU-CET held in May 2026 and counselling completed in June 2026.
| Event | Date (2026 Cycle - Concluded) |
|---|---|
| IMU-CET Registration Opens | 6 February 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 24 April 2026 |
| IMU-CET 2026 Exam Date | 24 May 2026 |
| Result and Rank Card | May 2026 |
| Counselling Registration | June 2026 |
| First Seat Allotment | June 2026 |
| Lateral Entry Last Date | 15 June 2026 |
The next admission cycle (2027-28) is expected to follow a similar schedule. The tentative dates below are based on the 2026 cycle pattern.
| Event | Tentative Date (2027 Cycle) |
|---|---|
| IMU-CET Registration Opens | February 2027 (Tentative) |
| Last Date to Apply | April 2027 (Tentative) |
| IMU-CET Exam | May 2027 (Tentative) |
| Counselling | June 2027 (Tentative) |
IMU-CET governs admission to B.Tech Marine Engineering. MBA and M.Tech admissions additionally accept CAT, MAT, GMAT, and GATE scores depending on the programme.
| Programme | Entrance Exam Accepted |
|---|---|
| B.Tech Marine Engineering | IMU-CET |
| B.Tech Lateral Entry | IMU Lateral Entry Test |
| MBA (ITLM) | IMU-CET / CAT / MAT / GMAT |
| M.Tech Marine Engineering | IMU-CET / GATE |
| M.S. (Research) | IMU-CET / GATE |
| Ph.D. | IMU-CET / UGC-NET / CSIR-NET |
IMU Kolkata Courses and Fees
IMU Kolkata offers six programme families, from the flagship B.Tech Marine Engineering to doctoral research. All fees below reflect the total cost for the entire programme duration, as per the fee structure for 2026.
| Course | Duration | Eligibility | Total Fees |
|---|---|---|---|
| B.Tech Marine Engineering | 4 years | 10+2 with PCM, 60% for General (50% for SC/ST), valid IMU-CET score, DGS medical fitness | INR 11.40 Lakhs |
| B.Tech Marine Engineering (Lateral Entry) | 3 years | Diploma in Marine or Mechanical Engineering with 60% aggregate | INR 8.65 Lakhs |
| MBA (International Transportation and Logistics Management) | 2 years | Bachelor’s degree with 50% marks, valid CAT/MAT/GMAT/IMU-CET score | INR 5.90 Lakhs |
| M.Tech Marine Engineering | 2 years | B.Tech or BE, valid GATE or IMU-CET score | INR 5.90 Lakhs |
| M.S. (Research) | 2 years | B.Tech, BE, or equivalent | INR 7.10 Lakhs |
| Ph.D. | 3 to 4 years | Master’s degree, valid NET/GATE/IMU-CET score | INR 60,000 per year |
The B.Tech Marine Engineering programme prepares graduates for sea-going careers as Marine Engineer Officers, certified under the STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers) framework mandated by the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS). The MBA in International Transportation and Logistics Management is designed for shore-based careers in shipping, ports, and supply chain management.
IMU Kolkata Admission Process
B.Tech Marine Engineering
The B.Tech Marine Engineering programme selects candidates on the basis of merit in IMU-CET, a national-level online CBT held annually in May across 91 test centres. Medical fitness as per DGS standards is a mandatory requirement before final admission.
- Eligibility: 10+2 or equivalent with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics
- Minimum marks: 60% aggregate in PCM for General category (50% for SC/ST/PwD)
- Medical: Eyesight and physical fitness norms as per Directorate General of Shipping
- Selection stages: IMU-CET score shortlist, online counselling registration, choice filling, seat allotment, document verification, admission confirmation
IMU-CET closing ranks for B.Tech Marine Engineering at the Kolkata campus typically fall in the range of 800 to 1,200 for General category applicants, varying by year and campus seat availability. SC/ST and OBC categories have reserved seats with relaxed cutoff thresholds as per government norms.
B.Tech Lateral Entry
The lateral entry programme admits diploma holders in Marine Engineering or Mechanical Engineering directly into the second year of B.Tech. Applications are submitted to IMU Kolkata with a closing date typically in June.
- Eligibility: Diploma in Marine Engineering or Mechanical Engineering with 60% aggregate
- DGS medical fitness norms apply here as well
MBA (International Transportation and Logistics Management)
MBA admissions at IMU Kolkata use a combination of IMU-CET, CAT, MAT, or GMAT scores. The programme suits graduates from engineering, science, commerce, or arts backgrounds with an interest in the global shipping and logistics sector.
- Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree in any discipline with minimum 50% marks
- Work experience in the maritime or logistics sector is preferred but not mandatory
M.Tech, M.S. (Research), and Ph.D.
Postgraduate and doctoral programmes require a relevant B.Tech or Master’s degree. M.Tech and M.S. applicants need a valid GATE or IMU-CET score. Ph.D. admissions additionally accept UGC-NET and CSIR-NET qualifications, with selection through a written test and interview conducted by IMU.
IMU Kolkata Placements and Career Outcomes
IMU Kolkata placements are driven by the global merchant shipping industry. The latest placement season recorded a highest package of INR 24 LPA and an average package of INR 8 LPA, with a median of INR 7 LPA. Over 600 students received placement offers from more than 50 companies across all IMU campuses, at a placement rate of 80 to 90 percent.
| Metric | 2025 Placement Season |
|---|---|
| Highest Package | INR 24 LPA |
| Average Package | INR 8 LPA |
| Median Package | INR 7 LPA |
| Students Placed | 600 plus (across IMU campuses) |
| Companies Participated | 50 plus |
| Placement Rate | 80 to 90 percent |
B.Tech Marine Engineering graduates join merchant navy vessels as Junior Engineer Officers. Starting sea pay typically falls in the INR 6 to 10 LPA range, rising substantially with rank advancement. Leading recruiters include global shipping companies: NYK Line, Chevron Shipping, MSC, Fleet Management Limited, and Anglo-Eastern Ship Management.
Career progression follows the merchant navy rank structure: Fourth Engineer to Chief Engineer, with Chief Engineer salaries on international vessels exceeding INR 20 LPA. MBA and M.Tech graduates pursue shore-based careers in port operations, logistics management, Directorate General of Shipping, and shipping consultancy firms.
IMU Kolkata Scholarships
IMU Kolkata students are eligible for institutional merit scholarships awarded each semester across all IMU campuses, as well as government-backed financial aid schemes for eligible categories.
| Scholarship | Eligibility | Award |
|---|---|---|
| IMU Merit Award - Rank 1 (All Campuses) | Semester topper across all IMU campuses | INR 1 Lakh per semester |
| IMU Merit Award - Ranks 2 to 31 | Ranks 2 to 31 across all IMU campuses | INR 75,000 per semester |
| IMU Merit Award - Ranks 32 to 61 | Ranks 32 to 61 across all IMU campuses | INR 50,000 per semester |
| Shipping Corporation of India Scholarship | Economically weaker sections including SC/ST/OBC | INR 1 Lakh per year |
| Central Sector Scholarship (PM-USP) | 80% and above in Class 12, family income below INR 4.5 Lakhs per year | As per government norms |
| Merit cum Means Scholarship | Technical programme students with demonstrated financial need | As per government norms |
SC/ST students benefit from fee reimbursement schemes under state and central government programmes. The DMET Alumni scholarship and shipping company-sponsored bursaries are also available to eligible students.
IMU Kolkata Campus and Infrastructure
IMU Kolkata is located at P-19, Taratola Road, in South Kolkata, West Bengal - 700 088. The campus operates as a fully residential facility, with B.Tech Marine Engineering cadets required to stay on campus throughout the programme.
The hostel complex accommodates over 800 cadets across four hostel buildings and ten wings. Each room houses six cadets and is equipped with cupboards, study tables, and shared washrooms. The campus provides 24-hour electricity and Wi-Fi connectivity. The mess serves three meals daily, with non-vegetarian options available five days a week.
Recreational and sports facilities include a swimming pool and a fully equipped gymnasium. Academic infrastructure covers dedicated marine engineering laboratories, engine room simulators, and workshop facilities required for STCW certification training. The campus library and computing facilities support undergraduate and postgraduate research needs. Hostel fees are estimated in the range of INR 80,000 to INR 1,20,000 per year, covering accommodation and mess charges.
IMU Kolkata vs AMET University vs Tolani Maritime Institute
Aspirants choosing a maritime engineering programme in India often compare IMU campuses, AMET University (Chennai), and Tolani Maritime Institute (Pune). The three differ in institutional character, location, and regulatory affiliation while offering the same DGS-recognised pathway to a seafaring career.
| Parameter | IMU Kolkata | AMET University, Chennai | Tolani Maritime Institute, Pune |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type | Central University campus (Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways) | Deemed University (private, maritime-focused) | Private institute (affiliated to BITS Pilani) |
| Location | Kolkata, West Bengal | Chennai, Tamil Nadu | Pune, Maharashtra |
| Flagship Programme | B.Tech Marine Engineering (4 years) | B.Tech Marine Engineering (4 years) | B.Tech Marine Engineering (4 years) |
| Admission Exam | IMU-CET | IMU-CET and direct admission | JEE Main and direct merit |
| Regulatory Body | UGC (Central University) | UGC (Deemed University) | AICTE |
| DGS Recognition | Yes | Yes | Yes |
IMU Kolkata carries the credential of a Central University backed by the Government of India, which is valued in government sector placements and DGS-linked maritime administration roles. AMET University offers a larger programme portfolio with direct admission options. Tolani Maritime Institute appeals to aspirants who value its BITS Pilani academic affiliation. All three programmes lead to the same DGS-recognised sea-going certification under STCW.
IMU Kolkata FAQs
Ques. What is IMU Kolkata known for?
Ans. IMU Kolkata, originally the Marine Engineering and Research Institute (MERI) established in 1949, is one of India’s oldest maritime training institutions. It is known for B.Tech Marine Engineering, which produces seagoing Marine Engineer Officers certified under the STCW framework. The campus is a part of Indian Maritime University, a Central University under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Government of India.
Ques. What is the total fee for B.Tech Marine Engineering at IMU Kolkata?
Ans. The total fee for B.Tech Marine Engineering at IMU Kolkata is INR 11.40 Lakhs for the four-year programme. Year 1 costs INR 3.15 Lakhs and Years 2, 3, and 4 cost INR 2.75 Lakhs each. Hostel accommodation (mandatory for B.Tech cadets) costs an additional INR 80,000 to INR 1,20,000 per year.
Ques. How do I apply to IMU Kolkata?
Ans. You apply through IMU-CET, the Indian Maritime University Common Entrance Test. Registration opens in February each year at the official IMU website. The application fee is INR 1,000 for General category and INR 700 for SC/ST candidates. After results, you register for counselling and select IMU Kolkata as your campus preference during seat allotment.
Ques. Is hostel accommodation mandatory at IMU Kolkata?
Ans. Yes, hostel accommodation is mandatory for B.Tech Marine Engineering cadets at IMU Kolkata. The campus operates as a fully residential facility. Hostel fees cover accommodation and mess charges, and are in the range of INR 80,000 to INR 1,20,000 per year.
Ques. What is the placement package at IMU Kolkata?
Ans. IMU campus placements in the 2025 season reported a highest package of INR 24 LPA and an average package of INR 8 LPA. B.Tech Marine Engineering graduates start as Junior Engineer Officers with sea pay in the INR 6 to 10 LPA range, rising significantly with seniority. Top recruiters include NYK Line, Chevron, MSC, Fleet Management, and Anglo-Eastern.
Ques. What is the IMU-CET cutoff for IMU Kolkata B.Tech Marine Engineering?
Ans. The IMU-CET closing rank for B.Tech Marine Engineering at IMU Kolkata typically falls in the range of 800 to 1,200 for the General category. Exact cutoffs vary by year and seat availability. SC/ST and OBC categories have reserved seats with relaxed rank thresholds as per government reservation norms.
Ques. Is IMU Kolkata better than AMET University for marine engineering?
Ans. IMU Kolkata is a campus of a Central University backed by the Government of India, giving it stronger credibility for government-sector maritime roles and DGS-linked administration. AMET University offers a larger programme portfolio and direct admission routes. Both hold DGS recognition, which is the primary certification requirement for seafaring careers. The choice depends on location preference and whether IMU-CET or direct admission better suits your profile.
Ques. Does IMU Kolkata offer scholarships?
Ans. Yes. IMU offers institutional merit scholarships each semester to the top 60 performers across all its campuses: the semester topper receives INR 1 Lakh, ranks 2 to 31 receive INR 75,000, and ranks 32 to 61 receive INR 50,000. Government scholarships including the Shipping Corporation of India bursary (INR 1 Lakh per year for economically weaker sections) and Central Sector Scholarship are also available.
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Yes, Indian Maritime University offers the BSc in Nautical science course.
Yes, students do receive fee waivers or scholarship based on merit as well as entrance exam. However, you can check out more on the same at IMU Kolkata Scholarship.
To prepare for IMU CET, you need to prepare for the topics viz. General knowledge, general aptitude, and English. However, you can check out the collegedunia page IMU CET exam to know more on the same.
The per year fee of Indian Maritime University B.Tech. is INR 2.25 lacs. The hostel fee has not been released in online mode.
Indian Maritime University does not offer the merchant navy course as a deck cadet.
Indian Maritime University does not release its brochure. All the information related to admission, courses, fees, scholarships and placements on the university official website.
Indian Maritime University (IMU) Kolkata does not offer a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc) in Nursing but you can apply to other colleges such as P. D. Hinduja Hospital & Medical Research Centre, Byramjee Jeejeebhoy Government Medical College, NIMS university, etc.