Membership Grades

Members holding positions of senior responsibility in the commercial shipping industry can choose to apply to become Fellows of the Institute ICS.

As well as our existing membership benefits, Fellows can use the FICS postnominals, get involved in the running of their local Branch and are able to serve on Controlling Council. Fellows are also entitled to call themselves ' Chartered Shipbrokers', a protected title under UK law.

Find out more about promotion to Fellowship on our Becoming a member page.

Member (MICS)

Our Members form a global network of commercial maritime professionals, including Shipbrokers, Ship Owners and Agents. Institute membership is internationally recognised as a mark of professionalism in the shipping industry.

Our range of membership benefits are here to help grow your expertise and recognition within the shipping industry and benefits include the use of the MICS postnominals, a subscription to Shipping Network, member-exclusive webinars and the support of our International Branch Network.

Membership is open to all maritime professionals with industry experience who have completed our Professional Qualifying Examinations (PQEs). To find out more visit our Becoming a Member page.

Retired

Members and Fellows who no longer work in or have retired from the shipping industry may still wish to be retain their membership with the Institute. Indivduals of all ages can change their membership status to Retired Fellow or Retired Member at a reduced membership rate.

As a Retired Member or Fellow you can retain your connection to the Institute whilst continuing to enjoy the full range of membership benefits, including a subscription to Shipping Network and the use of your existing MICS/FICS postnominals.

To change your membership status to Retired please contact the membership team at membership@ics.org.uk for more information.

Life membership is open to retired Fellows or Members who have, over their years of membership, made a significant contribution to the Institute. This includes those who have served as senior ICS officers, Branch or specialist committee members, Tutors and Examiners.

To qualify for life membership, a retired Fellow or Member must be recommended directly by their Branch, with the application then submitted to Head Office.

A Life Fellow or Member is entitled to all the benefits of membership except the right to vote or take part in the affairs of ICS.

Honorary Fellowship is an honour bestowed by the Institute and is open to those who have made a significant contribution to commercial shipping.

To be eligible for Honorary Fellowship, candidates must be nominated by at least three members of Controlling Council and elected by a majority vote of Controlling Council.