This programme covers the mandatory minimum requirements as set out in Reg. II/I, Sec. A-II/I of STCW 78' convention as amended. It is based on the minimum knowledge required for certification of officer-in-charge of a Navigation watch on ships over 500 GRT. While students complete the Academic and some practical on a Semester basis at the Maritime Academy, a mandatory six-month industrial attachment is required to complete the Diploma offered by the Fiji National University (FNU).

The MER for new cadets is in accordance with the Entry Standards for new cadet intake which includes:

1. Completion of Fiji year 12 or 13 with a pass in FSLCE or FSFE. Pass must include 50% or more in English, Mathematics, and Physics;
2. Candidates shall not be less than 18 years of age and not more than 22 years old at the time of a closing applications;
3. Pass a Medical Fitness Test from a Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) approved medical practitioner; 
4. Be of height not less than 5' 2''. 
5. Be of acceptable BMI ratio(Not more than 32 for BMI). 
6. Be successful at the interview conducted by the Academy. 
7. Mature applicants with specified sea service experience for upgrading programmes must produce a letter acceptance/eligibility issued by the MSAF attesting to meeting the minimum requirement as set down by the Marime (STCW Convention) regulation 2014-Fiji.