tegwin,
Apologies if you've already seen this, but it's as true now as it has ever been:
"Option A, CPL(H) only, high risk, chance of employment poor or nil
Option B, CPL(H) + FI rating, higher cost, low risk, lower returns
Option C, CPL(H) + IR, higher cost, high risk, higher returns"
© Camp Freddie
This might sound harsh but if you don't think that you can find the funds for Option B, I would put things on hold until you can. I personally think that the time for Option C is passing (NS hiring being cyclical) and Option A is frankly crazy.
Best of luck with whatever you decide.