Q: What are my pre-requisites for taking an IDC?
A. Hold a Dive Master rating, have 100 logged dives and be open water certified for six months.
Q: Can I take an IDC course with less than 100 dives?
A. Yes, there will be 5 dives in the IDC so you could start with 95 dives. If you need more, we can book you on a live-a-board trip, as this will give you maximum dives in the shortest time.
Q: How far ahead should I enroll and pick up my materials?
A. You should plan on enough time to complete all pre-course assignments. Usually most students allow at least 2 weeks.
Q: Do I have to be an EFR/CFC provider to be become an EFR/CFC Instructor?
A: Yes, in order to become an EFR/CFC instructor you do have to be a Student first. We conduct the First Aid courses daily and during the IDC.
Q: After taking the MSDT prep – specialty instructor courses- will I be MSDT?
A: Not until you have certified 25 divers and submitted the MSDT application. Remember, you will have gained 5 more teaching specialties after completion of the MSDT course.
Q: What is the average age and size of your classes?
A: Ages 18 – 65 all ages are welcome. 4 – 10 students (Our student –instructor ratios are lower than PADI requires),
Q: What can I expect to spend on professional dive equipment?
A: Realistically, on average, Pro Dive Cairns students spend between $1800 and $2900 on professional dive equipment. This includes: mask, snorkel, fins, wetsuit, gear bag, BCD, regulator, alternate, computer console, compass, knife, gloves, and lights. Professional dive equipment should be considered a “one-time” investment. They will be the tools of your trade.
Q: Why should I purchase my dive equipment from Pro Dive Cairns?
A:Service – Any questions, adjustments, repairs, or exchanges are handled here at Pro Dive Cairns!
Price – Pro Dive Cairns students are eligible for special student pricing on all purchases! We are competitively priced on premier brands of professional dive equipment.
Credibility – You will be using your equipment everyday, in the pool and on our boat. The gear that we recommend must be the “right stuff”. We will outfit you as a professional, who will soon be working in the industry. Service – Any questions, adjustments, repairs, or exchanges are handled here at Pro Dive Cairns!
Q: How long does it take to go through the whole program incl. MSDT Prep?
A: The IDC, EFRI, IE and MSDT Prep. take 3 weeks to complete.
Q: How much do I have to invest in my training from the start of the IDC to finishing the Instructor Exam (IDC, IE, EFRI, and fees)?
A: IDC $2295, EFRI $495, plus Materials, PADI IE, PADI Application fees, Total Au$5700.00 see fees page for updated figures
Q: Can I work while I’m doing the course?
A: Due to the comprehensive nature of the program and the necessary homework requirements at night, it is not recommended.
Q: Do I need a car?
A: No.
Q: Where do I stay, or, do you have other places to recommend to stay?
A: Being located in a resort destination environment, you are offered the opportunity to stay at nearby Hotels/ Hostels with whom we have negotiated rates. There are several within walking distance.
Q: Is job placement for only Pro Dive Cairns candidates?
A: In order to qualify for our job placement program you must be a Pro Dive Cairns candidate
Q: Does Pro Dive Cairns hire their grads?
A: Absolutely! You will be on top of the list.
Q: How long before I get a job?
A: On average, as little as two weeks.
Q: How much could I get paid in Australia as a Dive Instructor?
A: On average the daily wages are between approx. Au$260 – Au$350 (2024)
Still more questions? Send us an email on alex@aquatica.com.au
