For what it is worth, I would say to get the CFII. Unless there is no ability to use it at your school. I got my CFII about 6 months after I started full time instructing and I was able to study on my own and get a sign off from another instructor and passed because I had a good idea how to teach at that point. So don't fret about the checkride. It will be better for you...and you can then take up VFR students in IMC legally! It will benefit everyone! If money is an issue, then I guess you have no choice! But it will put another feather in your cap, and if you are instructing to get into the airlines...you are going to want to get that CFII! Not a deal breaker, but why not take this time to improve on your craft! Haha...CRAFT. Sorry I had to do it! Good luck!