Ares Overseas IWCF Level 3 Course.

IWCF Drilling Well Control Level 3: Everything You Need to Know

The IWCF Level 3 Drilling Well Control course is essential for anyone currently in a position responsible for shutting in a well during drilling operations. Whether you are working offshore or onshore, understanding and executing proper well control measures can mean the difference between a safe operation and a critical incident. This course is globally recognised and designed to provide you with the technical knowledge and hands-on skills required to manage well control events effectively.

What is IWCF Level 3?

IWCF Level 3 is targeted at drillers and equivalent roles that directly contribute to well control during active drilling. The training dives deep into the detection of kicks, shutting in the well, maintaining control, and participating in kill operations. It builds on Level 2 foundational knowledge and adds practical, scenario-based assessments to reinforce learning.

This course is accredited by the International Well Control Forum (IWCF), a global organisation that sets the standard for well control training and certification in the oil and gas industry. Upon passing, candidates receive a certificate valid for 2 years.

Delivery Methods

At ARES Offshore, we provide flexibility for participants with two learning modes:

Classroom-based, instructor-led training in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Virtual training conducted live via online, ideal for remote candidates and international participants

This flexibility enables professionals from countries all around the world to enroll without the need to travel, saving both time and cost.

Course Structure and Duration

Course Length: 5 days (intensive)

Assessment: Theory + simulator-based practical exams

Certificate Validity: 2 years

*Participants must already hold an IWCF Candidate Registration (CR) number and preferably a prior IWCF Level 3 or Level 2 certification.

Who Should Attend?

This course is ideal for individuals in operational roles such as:

• Drilling/Intervention Wellsite Supervisor, Superintendent or Company Man
• Office-based Drilling/Intervention Supervisor
• Office-based Drilling/Intervention Superintendent
• Tool Pusher
• Wellsite Well Testing Supervisor
• Wellsite Completions Supervisor
• Intervention Supervisor
• Offshore Installation Manager (OIM)
• Drilling Contractor Rig Manager
• Supervisors or Crew Chiefs for special service operations
• Fishing engineer (if supervising well kill/pressure-controlled operations)
• Those who are in decision-making roles (e.g., Company Men, Superintendents, Well Engineers) may consider IWCF Level 4 Drilling Well Control as a next step.

Why Drilling Well Control Training Matters

Uncontrolled well events can lead to blowouts, major equipment damage, and even fatalities. Drilling well control is not just a regulatory requirement — it’s a fundamental safety protocol that protects lives, assets, and the environment.

This training ensures you:

Know how to detect a kick early, apply proper shut-in procedures and operate and test BOP systems.

Execute kill procedures using Driller’s and Wait-and-Weight methods

Career Impact

Having a valid IWCF Level 3 certificate significantly increases your chances of landing roles in major operators like Shell, ExxonMobil, Petronas, and Chevron. Many international contracts require it as a minimum benchmark for field deployment.

Enroll Now with ARES Offshore. We run regular training sessions with certified instructors, modern simulators, and flexible schedules. Whether you’re renewing an expired certificate or preparing for a new assignment, ARES helps you stay compliant and confident.

Accredited by IWCF, so book IWCF Level 3 training now and secure your place in our upcoming session.

Still unsure if Level 2 is right for you? Speak to our Course Advisor and we’ll help you find the correct path based on your career role.