Hey veterans! Did you know you can use the GI Bill to get scuba-certified? Former military personnel who wish to pursue careers in diving can take advantage of educational credits and programs to enter the professional scuba industry. If you’re considering becoming a scuba instructor, here’s how to use your veterans’ benefits for dive training.
How Can a Veteran Apply for Scuba Training?
Veterans can apply for professional scuba career training through the Post-9/11 GI Bill, chapters 30, 31, 33, and 35. You can use your education benefits to become a certified instructor, among other underwater career paths. Look for a training facility approved by the VA and your state education commission. You can start with your open water certification or advance your training.
Many career opportunities are available for veterans using veterans’ benefits for scuba training. Become a technical diving instructor, dive medical instructor, or public safety diver, or establish a career as part of a topside support team by becoming a dive technician. Note that these benefits are geared towards professional-level diving, not just recreational.
Some states offer additional scholarship money for these programs. You may be able to get everything covered from your course fees, exams, and possibly even equipment purchases. If your benefits fall under the Post 9/11 GI Bill, you could launch a whole new dive career at no cost to you.
Whatever level of diving you wish to reach, there are numerous bonuses for the military veteran active in scuba. Scuba is shown to reduce stress in those suffering from PTSD, and the weightless factor of being underwater is of special help to vets with physical injuries. Whatever your reason, being in and under the water certainly has perks.
Military Discount
Leisure Pro also offers it to all active and former members of the armed forces, making your path to the world of scuba diving even easier. Check into how to use your veterans benefits for scuba training today, and embark on a new career under the waves!
