How deck officers can obtain a B.Sc in Nautical Science (Equivalency Certificate)
In the maritime industry, achieving the rank of Second Mate is a significant milestone. For those holding a Second Mate Certificate of Competency (COC) or above, there is an exciting opportunity to further enhance their qualifications. The Association of Indian Universities (AIU) recognizes the Second Mate CoC or above as equivalent to a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc) in Nautical Science. This equivalence opens up a sea of possibilities for professional growth and academic advancement. In this blog, we are going to take you through a stepwise process on how to apply for the AIU certificate and what are its advantages.
What do you mean by AIU?
An AIU Equivalency Certificate is a document issued by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) that certifies a foreign degree, diploma, or certificate as equivalent to an Indian degree. The recognition by AIU means that Second Mate CoC holders are considered to have an education equivalent to a BSc in Nautical Science. This recognition is crucial for several reasons:
- Career Growth in Maritime and Shore-Based Roles
- Pathway to Postgraduate Studies
- Facilitating Immigration
- Enhanced Social Standing
- Commitment to Professional Development
- Competitive Edge in International Employment
How to apply for AIU certification?
1. Registration:
- Visit the AIU website: AIU Equivalency Portal.
- Register on the portal by entering your credentials.
- An auto-generated email with login details (username and password) will be sent to your registered email ID.
2. Profile Completion:
- Log in using the provided username and password.
- Complete your profile by uploading a photo, signature, and address details.
- Documents Required - Applicant photo, Photo of Signature, Government ID (Aadhar Card, Passport)
3. Document Submission:
- Click on the "EQUIVALENCY" tab.
- Upload self-attested scanned copies of your Grade 10, 12 certificates, and your Second Mate FG documents (or higher COCs).
- Pay the required equivalency fee of Rs. 14,160/-.
- Click on the "Final Submission" button.
4. Processing and Confirmation:
- You will receive an email confirming the payment and final submission.
- The processing time for generating the equivalency certificate is typically 10-15 working days.
- If there are any queries from the AIU Evaluation staff, you will be notified via email.
- Once processed, the certificate will be uploaded to your profile, and you will be notified through email.
Advantages of getting equivalency from AIU:
- Any deck officer can apply
- All process is online
- Recognized by all universities across India and most universities outside India
- Hassle-free process
- Less documentation

Contact Information
For further queries, you can reach out to the AIU:
- Email: evaluation@aiu.ac.in
- Phone: 011-23230059 Ext. 244/210
Conclusion
The AIU's recognition of the Second Mate Certificate of Competency as equivalent to a BSc in Nautical Science is a significant boon for mariners. It not only validates their professional training but also opens doors to further educational and career opportunities. As a Second Mate CoC holder, this equivalence can be a pivotal step in advancing your career, allowing you to navigate new horizons in the maritime industry and beyond. So, set your course for success and explore the myriad possibilities that await your recognized degree.
Note: If you are looking for a similar certification from Mumbai University, check out this blog:
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