Foundational Instruction for New SCUBA Scientists (FINSS) Grant Program

Foundational Instruction for New SCUBA Scientists (FINSS) Grant Program

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: AAUS Foundation
Amount: Up to US $1,500
Last Updated: January 22, 2026

Summary

The Foundational Instruction for New SCUBA Scientists (FINSS) Grant Program aims to support individuals from underrepresented groups seeking scientific diving certification. By covering costs for the Open Water scuba course and providing necessary gear, this scholarship removes financial barriers and enhances access to diving training. With a total funding of $1500, recipients can also benefit from a one-year DAN Master Plan and AAUS student membership, fostering inclusivity in the diving community.

Overview

Recreational scuba diving is a privileged sport. Training costs money, the gear is expensive, and getting to dive sites adds up. Many researchers cannot participate in the scientific diving training that they need due to the fact that they simply cannot afford to get their Open Water Scuba Certification. This scholarship addresses that need. Who is this for? Those from underrepresented groups in diving Those who need to get a scientific diver certification for research, volunteer, or technical positions, but don’t have access to the prerequisite open water certification What does the scholarship provide? Payment to the dive shop/instructor of recipients choosing for an open water scuba course, gear rental for the course, processing fees, and personal mask, fins, and snorkel. Any grant money that is not used for the Open Water course due to the generosity of dive shops or instructors may be used to purchase additional dive equipment. One-year DAN Master Plan. 1-year AAUS student membership upon completion of their scientific diving course How much? $1500 total $900: Open Water Course $500: Gear $100: DAN Individual Membership and Master Plan

Eligibility

You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website. Identify as a member of a traditionally underrepresented group who, under normal circumstances, may not receive scuba diving instruction or would struggle due to financial barriers or other hardships. Be connected to an AAUS Organizational Member such as:Graduate students whose thesis/dissertation work involves diving. Undergraduate volunteers participating in research. Aquarium volunteers or employees who would like to include scientific diving in their job duties. Employee/volunteer/researcher for another type of institution (eg. NGO, consulting firm) who would like to include scientific diving in their job duties.