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Help & Support

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Frequently asked questions

FAQ

FAQ

If you have any questions or are unsure which course is right for you, feel free to contact us below.

Getting Started

Getting Started

How do I book a course?

You can book directly through our online booking form.
Select your course level, preferred date, and location. Once submitted, we’ll confirm your registration details and send pre-course information to help you prepare.

Which IWCF course level do I need?

Your course level depends on your current role and experience:

  • Level 2 – For wellsite crew and support staff assisting in drilling operations.

  • Level 3 – For drillers, toolpushers, and equipment operators responsible for immediate well control actions.

  • Level 4 – For supervisors, company representatives, and senior drilling personnel overseeing operations.

If you’re unsure, use our Which Course Is Right for Me? guide or contact us for advice.

How do I get an IWCF Candidate Registration number?

You can create an IWCF candidate profile through the IWCF FORUM portal. Once registered, you’ll receive a Candidate Registration Number, also known as a CR number. You only need to register once and can reuse the same number for future IWCF bookings.

Are there any prerequisites?

For Level 2, no prior certification is required.
Candidates for Level 3 or Level 4 should have relevant wellsite or drilling experience — IWCF recommends at least 6–12 months in a suitable role.

When is payment required?

Payment details are sent after your booking request has been received and availability has been confirmed. Your place is confirmed once payment arrangements are complete.

What if I don’t see the course dates I need?

Don't see a date that suits? Send us an email to request a date.

How much does the course cost?

Courses are priced at $3000AUD not including GST.

Can I book more than one candidate?

Yes, please contact us directly for group bookings. We’ll confirm availability and the next steps once we receive your enquiry.

Preparing for
your course.

Preparing for your course

Where are courses held?

Training is held at our professional venue at 2/81 Guthrie Street, Osborne Park, WA with free parking and easy access to main roads.
We can also deliver courses at approved locations across Australia or the Asia Pacific for group bookings.

What should I bring?

Bring a valid photo ID, your IWCF Candidate Registration Number, and a laptop or tablet for your digital assessments.

What can I expect during training?

Courses include classroom learning, practical discussions, and simulator-based training.
You’ll practice kick detection, shut-in procedures, and kill methods in realistic drilling simulations.
Our small-class format means more simulator time and one-on-one feedback from your instructor.

Who is the instructor?

Your training will be delivered by our Co-Founder Tim Manning, an IWCF-accredited instructor and assessor with over 35 years of real-world drilling, subsea, and well operations experience. Read more about Tim here.

Before, During
and After.

Before, during and
after your course

How is the IWCF exam structured?

IWCF exams include a written assessment, with a practical simulator assessment required at higher levels.

  • Level 2: Written exam only

  • Level 3 & 4: Written exam plus simulator-based practical assessment

  • Written exams are multiple-choice and based on the official IWCF syllabus

  • Practical assessments test real-world well control response and decision-making

Your instructor will explain the exam format and expectations during the course, and all assessments follow current IWCF and IOGP 476 guidelines.

What score do I need to pass?

You must achieve at least 70% in each assessment component (theory and simulator, where applicable).
If you fail one section, IWCF allows a single resit attempt during the same course.

How long is my certification valid?

Level 2: 5 years
Level 3 & 4: 2 years

We recommend renewing your certification before expiry to remain compliant.

IWCF Certification
Explained.

IWCF Certification
explained

Who recognises IWCF certification?

IWCF certificates are recognised internationally by operators, drilling contractors, and service companies as the benchmark for well control competence.

What’s the difference between IWCF and IADC?

Both IWCF and IADC set international well control standards.
IWCF operates as an independent, not-for-profit organisation focused on accreditation and consistent global assessment.
IADC certification is widely used in the U.S., while IWCF is the most recognised standard worldwide.

What’s the difference between Surface and Subsea BOP certification?

Surface BOP – For land or jack-up rigs.

Subsea BOP – For floating or deepwater rigs.
Candidates working across both can complete a “Combined” certification.

How long is my certification valid?

Level 2: 5 years
Level 3 & 4: 2 years

We recommend renewing your certification before expiry to remain compliant.

Who recognises IWCF certification?

IWCF certificates are recognised internationally by operators, drilling contractors, and service companies as the benchmark for well control competence.

Difference between IADC and IWCF

Both IWCF and IADC set international well control standards.
IWCF operates as an independent, not-for-profit organisation focused on accreditation and consistent global assessment.
IADC certification is widely used in the U.S., while IWCF is the most recognised standard worldwide.

Surface or Subsea BOP?

Surface BOP – For land or jack-up rigs.

Subsea BOP – For floating or deepwater rigs.
Candidates working across both can complete a “Combined” certification.

How long is my certification valid?

Level 2: 5 years
Level 3 & 4: 2 years

We recommend renewing your certification before expiry to remain compliant.

Help and Support.

Help and Support

Can courses be run at other locations?

Yes. We can deliver IWCF-accredited training at approved venues across Australia or internationally for group bookings.
Minimum candidate numbers apply — contact us to discuss your requirements.

Who can I contact for help?

Call +61 401 853 646 or email hello@drillingschool.com.au
We’ll be happy to help you choose the right course, register, or book your training.

What if I need to cancel or reschedule?

We understand that plans can change. If you need to cancel or reschedule your booking, please contact us in writing as early as possible so we can talk through the available options. Changes are subject to course availability and our Training Terms and Conditions.

[

customer reviews

]

The training was clear, hands-on, and directly relevant to what we face on the rig. Easily the best IWCF course I’ve attended.

Level 3 & 4 Candidate 2025

Driller

I really enjoyed Tim's teaching delivery style and content covered to prepare for the exams. The classroom participant numbers are kept to a size that allows the teaching level to be dictated by a smaller group and allows more one-on-one time on facets more specific to the student’s requirements.

Rod Martin

Drilling Supervisor

The course was very well organised and in a great location. The small class made for an effective learning environment and allowed the material to stay on track. Tim was very knowledgeable and practical in his approach to well control and teaching the class. Thanks for a good course.

Paul O'Shea

Company Man

[

customer reviews

]

The training was clear, hands-on, and directly relevant to what we face on the rig. Easily the best IWCF course I’ve attended.

Level 3 & 4 Candidate 2025

Driller

I really enjoyed Tim's teaching delivery style and content covered to prepare for the exams. The classroom participant numbers are kept to a size that allows the teaching level to be dictated by a smaller group and allows more one-on-one time on facets more specific to the student’s requirements.

Rod Martin

Drilling Supervisor

The course was very well organised and in a great location. The small class made for an effective learning environment and allowed the material to stay on track. Tim was very knowledgeable and practical in his approach to well control and teaching the class. Thanks for a good course.

Paul O'Shea

Company Man

[

300+ Candidates Trained

]

Ready to start your IWCF training?

Getting started is easy. Choose the right IWCF course for your role and confirm your place with us.

[

300+ Candidates Trained

]

Ready to start your IWCF training?

Getting started is easy. Choose the right IWCF course for your role and confirm your place with us.

[

300+ Candidates Trained

]

Ready to start your IWCF training?

Getting started is easy. Choose the right IWCF course for your role and confirm your place with us.