NAUI SkillBridge Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Will I be receiving additional housing allowance for the location of my SkillBridge?
- Answer:No. If you are already receiving housing allowance you will continue to receive it for your current duty station, NOT your SkillBridge location.
- If I have a dive certification through another agency (e.g. PADI, SSI, etc.) can it crossover to NAUI?
- Answer:Yes, your certifications will be able to crossover.
- Will I still be able to participate in the SkillBridge program if I will have less than 120 days left in service when I start SkillBridge with NAUI?
- Answer:Yes. Though the program is designed to be 120-180 days, you may still participate if you have less than 120 days left, though there is no guarantee you will be able to complete all the dive certifications in that time.
- Can I finish my scuba certifications even after my SkillBridge has ended?
- Answer:Yes. You are welcome to continue using your GI Bill®, or pay out of pocket, to finish your scuba certifications or licenses once your SkillBridge has come to an end.
- Do I have to use my GI Bill® to pay for the courses?
- Answer:No. While using the GI Bill® is the most popular option to pay for the courses, you may also choose to pay out of pocket with the total coming to $10,000 for all the certifications and licenses. It is also important to note that each certification and license are offered as separate modules so starting the program does not require you to see it through to the highest level of certification. For example, if you’d only like to take the program to Rescue Diver or Dive Master you may do so. For those thinking about using their GI Bill benefits, the program has been optimized to use the least amount of your benefits (1 month of benefit per course) in comparison to other programs.
- Which GI Bill® can I use for this SkillBridge?
- Answer:You are allowed to pick from the Post 9/11 or Montgomery GI Bill®, whichever best suits you. Remember that you must first apply for your GI Bill benefits through va.gov in order to use them. Since it’s a lengthy process, it’s better well in advance.
- Can I start my scuba courses before I start my SkillBridge?
- Answer:Yes. You are welcome to begin classes before your SkillBridge begins.
- Do I have to begin the SkillBridge at a certain time or date?
- Answer:No. The SkillBridge timeframe is 120-180 days from your end of service date.
- Can I use this program if I’m currently enrolled in school?
- Answer:Yes. You can use this program and go to school.
- Do I receive the BAH from the GI Bill® benefits while on this program?
- Answer:No. You are not considered a full-time student on this program. You are using one month of benefits to be reimbursed for certification and license fees. Find out more at the VA website:https://www.va.gov/education/about-gi-bill-benefits/how-to-use-benefits/test-fees/
- Can I use Tuition Assistance or the COOL program for this course?
- Answer:No. Those are two separate programs that are not able to be used for this program.
- Is equipment included in this program?
- Answer:Yes and No. Your first two courses will include rental gear but once you get to your Rescue Course you will be required to have your own gear. Some of our dive shop and affiliate locations offer different discount and loyalty programs to help with the cost of purchasing gear. For more information on locations that offer these incentives reach out to Ray Reneau at[email protected].
- Does this SkillBridge lead to work opportunities after I finish?
- Answer:Yes. Upon completion of your SkillBridge program the location at which you obtained your certifications may choose to hire you as a member of their staff. SkillBridge allows the business to evaluate your performance during SkillBridge. You do not have to accept employment and could instead apply and work anywhere using your certifications and licenses. As a NAUI instructor diver you could even set your own schedule teaching private groups how to become safe competent divers.
- Can I participate with prior or existing medical conditions?
- Answer:As SkillBridge members are primarily preparing to disembark their military careers this question may arise, especially for those awaiting the result of a pending VA claim. Diving in and of itself does pose some inherent risks. As such a medical professional’s recommendation will be required for certain situations, however this shouldn’t deter you from applying. Most situations can be accommodated.
