A good IDC comparison needs more than price, location and a claim about successful candidates. You are choosing the people and arrangements that will help you develop as an educator. Ask questions that produce concrete explanations you can compare between providers.
Compare the teaching offer
- Identify the team
- Understand the feedback
- Check the schedule
- Read the written terms
This diagram summarises the article. It is not an in-water procedure, identification image or competency assessment.
Identify who will teach you
Ask for the Course Director’s identity and current role in the proposed programme. Clarify which other staff are involved and who gives feedback on your development. Request the actual schedule, preparation requirements and arrangements for a candidate who needs additional practice. A famous name on a website does not explain who will be present on your dates.
Ask for evidence of the learning process
Request examples of how feedback is delivered and how candidates are supported between sessions. Ask how knowledge preparation, presentations and practical development fit together. You do not need private student records or proprietary exam material; you need a clear explanation of the learning environment and the provider’s responsibilities.
Read promises carefully
If a centre quotes a pass rate, ask what period, candidates and attempts it includes. Treat employment assistance, guaranteed work and an interview introduction as different promises. Obtain inclusions, exclusions, change terms and any additional-practice costs in writing. PADI’s own IDC preparation guidance is a useful starting point for the conversation, not an endorsement of a particular provider.
A practical comparison
| Look at | What it tells you | What to do next |
|---|---|---|
| People | Who teaches on your dates? | Confirm names and responsibilities |
| Process | How does feedback lead to improvement? | Ask for the session structure |
| Promises | What exactly is included or guaranteed? | Request written definitions |
THINK IT THROUGH
A question to take away
Two centres both advertise a 100% pass rate. What useful comparison remains?
Read the explanation
Compare how the rate was defined, the actual teaching and feedback, preparation expectations, extra-practice arrangements and the complete cost.
Common questions
Does directory inclusion verify an IDC centre?
No. Check current authorisation and programme details with PADI and the provider.
Should I ask to speak to previous candidates?
You can request voluntary references or published experiences, while respecting privacy and recognising that individual experiences vary.
Sources and what they support
Source pages checked 2026-10-01. The practical questions and exercises are YouDive editorial material. Source checking is not independent specialist review.
- PADI: what to consider before an IDC ↗
Entry age, preparation and choosing training.