Top 25 Cy­ber­se­cu­ri­ty Schol­ar­ships

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As we’ve learned in recent years, cybersecurity is serious business. Cyber attacks can take down movie studios, banks, and universities, resulting in loss of data and identity theft. Cyber terrorists can damage infrastructure and cost taxpayers billions in losses. That’s why getting well-educated, experience cybersecurity professionals into the field is critical. College and universities have started offering online programs at all levels, from associate’s to bachelor’s to master’s degrees, hoping to meet the demand. Even then, though, college costs money, and the cost of paying for college holds a lot of prospective students back. 

To help prospective cybersecurity students, and professionals currently working in cybersecurity who want to go back to school, College Consensus has compiled a list of some of the best scholarships for cybersecurity students. Some are specifically cyber security scholarships for international students or current professionals, while other cyber security scholarships for high school seniors or undergraduate scholarships target traditional-aged students. Some are intended to get underrepresented women and minority students into cybersecurity and STEM

The cybersecurity scholarships below are presented in alphabetical order by name. 

1

AFCEA War Veterans Scholarships

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The AFCEA War Veterans Scholarship is for those who have served or are currently serving in the US military overseas. This $2,500 scholarship has a deadline of May 31st. It’s not just for those who want to major in cyber security, although it is a good resource for those who do want scholarships for cyber security. The scholarship is available to many STEM majors, including telecommunications, network operations, electrical engineering, and information technology. The full list of eligible majors is listed on the scholarship’s web page. The application process involves a personal essay and statement on teaching philosophy, as well as submitting a transcript.

The AFCEA is a nonprofit organization that has existed since 1946. It provides a platform for education and communication between military communities and tech industry communities, thus ensuring that technology lines up with military members’ needs. The heart of the AFCEA is collaboration. This member-based organization has a wide reach. In addition to its scholarship programs, the AFCEA provides advocacy, event leadership, and chances for connection.

Award
$2,500
Deadline
May 31, 2021

2

Al Ponte Graduate Scholarship Award

afio logoThe Al Ponte Graduate Scholarship Award is a scholarship for students who are going into grad school for International Relations or Intelligence. The scholarship amount varies depending on the circumstances, but it awards an average of $1,000. To apply for this scholarship, students should submit their applications by June 1st. In addition to the application form, this scholarship requires a personal essay, a financial need analysis, and a personal photograph.

The Al Ponte Graduate Scholarship Award comes from the Association of Former Intelligence Officers, or AFIO. This organization is a nonprofit community resources for former intelligence officers and those who support their efforts. It offers scholarships for international students, including the Al Pointe Scholarship, and it offers several other resources, including books, other publications, symposiums, and other educational benefits. Thanks to these resources, AFIO helps past, current, and future intelligence professionals succeed and thrive.

Award
$1,000 or more
Deadline
June 1 2021

3

CIA Undergraduate Scholarship

cia logoThe CIA Undergraduate Scholarship program awards up to $25,000 per year, making it one of the highest-paying cyber security undergraduate scholarships. The deadline is July 31st, though students should apply at least 12 months before their desired start date. This scholarship comes with some specific requirements. Recipients must at least one, and preferably two, 90-day sessions with the CIA before graduating, and then they must work for the CIA for 1.5 years per year of money received. For example, this means that if you receive the scholarship for two years of college, you must work for the CIA for at least three years after graduation.

The CIA is a core component of American safety, and the Undergraduate Scholarship program gives students the chance to get hands-on CIA experience. They work directly with CIA professionals and get a close-up look at what it takes to protect the country. The CIA’s scholarship programs aren’t just scholarship programs; They are also co-op programs. Essentially, the CIA is offering a combination scholarship/internship program. For those who want to work in the CIA, this program provides a very valuable opportunity. Students can get hands-on experience with the CIA, and then they can use that experience to move forward in their careers.

Award
up to $25,000/yr.
Deadline
July 31, 2021

4

Colonel Sully H. de Fontaine Scholarship Award

afio logoThe Colonel Sully H. de Fontaine Scholarship is a $1,200 award for undergraduate students pursuing careers in the US Intelligence field. It’s a great opportunity for those who need cyber security undergraduate scholarships. Cyber security majors, among others, may fall under this category. The deadline to apply is June 1st, and it requires an application form, a personal essay, a financial need analysis, and a photograph.

The Colonel de Fontaine Scholarship is offered in honor of the Colonel’s service. The Scholarship is offered by AFIO, or the Association of Former Intelligence Officers. AFIO offers a lot of educational resources, including several scholarships. AFIO is committed to providing a community and resources for former Intelligence Officers, but it also supports the future of Intelligence and those who want to make Intelligence a part of their careers. AFIO is helping to build a world in which Intelligence Officers keep getting the support that they need.

Award
$1,200
Deadline
June 1

5

Comcast NBCUniversal-SVA Scholarship

comcastThe Comcast NBCUniversal-SVA Scholarship is one of the best scholarships for veterans pursuing the entertainment industry. It’s a $12,000 scholarship awarded to students with military experience. Students must maintain a high GPA, and the application process includes an essay. The deadline for submission is April 9th, 2021.

Comcast and NBCUniversal have partnered with the Student Veterans of America for this entertainment industry scholarship. Comcast and NBCUniversal are both vital to the entertainment industry, with the latter producing entertainment and the former giving it a platform. Student Veterans of America, meanwhile, is an organization that helps veterans reach their potential through education. These three organizations combined provide the perfect resource for entertainment-minded vets.

Award
$12,000
Deadline
April 9, 2021

6

Cybersecurity Public Service Scholarship Program

schevThe Cybersecurity Public Service Scholarship Program offers a $20,000 grant to eligible students. It’s a unique opportunity compared to other scholarships for cyber security. The application deadline varies, so check the website for more information. This grant is for students who have recently graduated from a Virginia institution with a degree in cyber security. To be eligible, recipients must reside in Virginia and have a full-time job within one year of graduation.

The Cybersecurity Public Service Scholarship Program comes from the State Council of Higher Education in Virginia. SCHEV is an excellent resource for current and future students. It has multiple scholarship opportunities, the latest news on higher education, and research. For those who live or go to school in Virginia, it’s worth taking a look around the SCHEV website. Students may find several resources that could help them in their educations and careers.

Award
$20,000
Deadline
varies

7

David L. Boren Undergraduate Scholarships

nsepThe David L Boren Scholarship is a great resource for students who want to study abroad. This program is a for students enrolled in a long-term language immersion program that focuses on languages and cultures that are important to US security. You should look into this opportunity if you need cyber security scholarships for international students. Cyber security students may also apply. The scholarship goes up to $25,000 for undergraduates. Deadlines may vary, so check the website for more information.

The National Security Education Program is a project of the US government. It was established as a result of the Boren National Security Education Act of 1991. NSEP creates partnerships between national security and US education. It provides resources, research, and advocacy for national security programs, aiming to widen the availability of national security experts in the US. Thanks to resources like the David L. Boren Undergraduate Scholarship, the future of US cyber security will be filled with highly qualified individuals who are passionate about their work.

Award
up to $20,000
Deadline
varies

8

Department of Defense SMART Scholarship

smartThe Department of Defense SMART Scholarship awards between $25,000 and $38,000 per year, depending on the degree level of the recipient. SMART stands for Science, Mathematics, and Research for Transformation. As such, it isn’t just for cyber security students, although cyber security students fall under the SMART umbrella. The deadline varies. Students may apply between August and December, so they get a fairly wide window of opportunity to submit their applications.

The SMART Scholarship program is a Department of Defense initiative. Unlike most other scholarships for cyber security, the SMART program is a scholarship-for-service program that prepares students for a career in the DoD civilian workforce. For every year that a student receives the scholarship, they must commit to a year of employment with the DoD. It’s a big commitment, but for those who are interested in a DoD STEM career, this program can help provide a straightforward path to employment.

Award
$25,000 - $38,000 a year depending on degree level
Deadline
Varies - apply August through December

9

ESET Women in Cyber Security Scholarship

esetWomen are underrepresented in the cyber security industry and in STEM in general. That’s why the ESET Women in Cyber Security Scholarship exists. It’s a $5,000 scholarship that empowers women seeking a career in cyber security. Though applicants don’t necessarily need to be in a cyber security program, they must explain how they plan to use their major to help them move forward in the cyber security field. Three women will receive a scholarship. The deadline is April 15th of 2021.

ESET is an important contributor to the world of cyber security. It’s a  business that creates cyber security products, including antivirus, anti-malware, and internet security software. ESET creates solutions for both business and personal use, and people from all over the world use ESET’S solutions. It’s committed to internet safety, which is part of the reason why it has created cyber security scholarships for high school seniors.

Award
$5,000
Deadline
fall 2021 - call for 2021 info

10

Harold F. Tipton Memorial Scholarship

isc2 logoThe Harold F. Tipton Memorial Scholarship is a $1,000-$5,000 award for aspiring information security professionals. The scholarship is meant to honor the legacy of Harold F. Tipton, the founder of (ISC) squared, by helping students achieve their dreams of cyber security work. Before he passed away in 2012, Mr. Tipton was a leader in internet security and an expert in cyber security innovations. The application deadline for this scholarship is March 8, 2021.

(ISC) Squared is a nonprofit cyber security organization for information security professionals. It has tens of thousands of members from all over the globe. This organization is a leader among cyber security programs. It provides credentials, educational resources, networking opportunities, and more for its members. As a result of (ISC) Squared and its scholarship opportunities, the internet is a safer place. Cyber security scholarships for high schools seniors are just some of the ways in which this organization has made a difference.

Award
$1,000 – $5,000
Deadline
March 8, 2021

11

KNOWBE4 Women in Cybersecurity Scholarship

knowbe4The KNOWBE4 Women in Cybersecurity Scholarship is a $10,000 award for women pursuing a cyber security degree or a similar degree in information security. KNOWBE4 offers cyber security undergraduate scholarships and graduate scholarships, but this scholarship is not available to PhD students. Though applications close in February of 2021, applications for 2022 will open up at the end of the year.

KNOWBE4 is an information security company known for providing a great environment for women, millennials, and and technology enthusiasts. KNOWBE4 provides awareness solutions for employees, helping them make smarter decisions online. KNOWBE4’s training helps protect companies and individuals from human error online. It’s deeply invested in making the online world safer for everyone, which is one of the reasons why it offers the Women in Cybersecurity Scholarship.

Award
$10,000
Deadline
Feb. 22, 2021

12

Life’s Choices Foundation Graduate Scholarship

afio logoThe Life’s Choices Foundation Graduate Scholarship awards two grants annually, both at $3,500. These are some great scholarships for cyber security. The deadline to apply is June of 2021. This scholarship is specifically for graduate students who are focusing on national security. Applicants should either be currently working for the US government or intending to work for the US government after graduation.

The Association of Former Intelligence Officers has several scholarship awards for students in cyber security and other intelligence studies. This nonprofit organization supports those who used to work in Intelligence, and it provides endowments for those who would like to become intelligence officers in the future. Through this program, not only does AFIO support those who used to keep the US safe, it empowers the future safety of the US.

Award
$3,500 - Two awards offered annually
Deadline
June 2021

13

Peter Jasin AFIO Endowment - Undergraduate and Graduate Scholarships

afio logoThe Peter Jasin AFIO Endowment offers $4,000 to 5 recipients. The deadline varies year by year. This award is available to both undergraduate and graduate students who have a history of taking courses in national security and foreign affairs. Cyber security courses fall into this category, which makes cyber security students eligible to apply. Though it’s an extensive application process, the large amount of scholarship money can make the process worth the effort. It appeals to many students who need scholarships for cyber security.

AFIO offers plenty of scholarship opportunities, both for graduate and undergraduate students. Through AFIO’s website, students may apply for multiple scholarships at once. As a result, students can get multiple shots at scholarship money, and they can save some time in the process. AFIO is deeply invested in the safety of the United States, and by providing scholarships like the Peter Jasin Endowment, they can keep protecting that investment.

Award
$4,000 - 5 Awards Granted
Deadline
varies

14

Ralph W. Shrader Graduate Diversity Scholarship

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The Ralph W. Shrader Graduate Diversity Scholarship is still accepting applications and will continue to do so until April 30th, so there’s still a fair amount of time for women and minority students looking for scholarships for cyber security. The award is given to women and minority students who are enrolled in their second semester of graduate school. Recipients must be attending a school that supports the AFCEA Educational Foundation’s mission. The scholarship is worth $3,000.

The AFCEA is an organization that supports STEM majors, including cyber security and other intelligence-related majors. The AFCEA Foundation makes connections between military members, education, and technology. Its mission ensures that military members have access to the technology that fits their needs. This organization offers several scholarship opportunities, which helps them ensure that they can continue their mission for generations to come.

Award
$3,000
Deadline
April 30, 2021

15

Raytheon Intelligence & Space Women's Cyber Security Scholarship

raytheonSome women are looking for female-specific scholarships for cyber security. The Raytheon Intelligence and Space Women’s Cyber Security Scholarship awards up to $10,000 to one recipient. That recipient must be a woman pursuing a cyber security or information security degree. The application process includes a resume request, a letter of recommendation, and several essay questions. The committee will choose the winner based on passion, merit, and financial need. The application process will open at the end of April, and the deadline to apply is June 1st.

Raytheon Intelligence and Space is a private company that develops software solutions for security. Raytheon’s technologies are used in aircraft, spacecraft, communications, and ground-level security. These innovative company is a leader in creating the latest solutions, which is why it has such a big voice in the world of cyber security and intelligence. With scholarships like the Women’s Cyber Security Scholarship, Raytheon continues to invest in the future of security innovation.

Award
up to $10,000
Deadline
June 1, 2021

16

Raytheon Technologies SPY-6 Scholarship

raytheonSome scholarships, including cyber security undergraduate scholarships, are specifically for veterans. The SPY-6 Scholarship is one of them. More specifically, this scholarship is a $10,000 award for US Navy student veterans. Applicants should apply by April 5th, 2021. Applicants must be full-time students at an accredited four-year college or university in the United States. To apply for this scholarship, students should provide a video explaining their leadership skills and passion for their field of study. Video applications should be no more than two minutes long.

Raytheon Technologies and Student Veterans of America have partnered to create the SPY-6 Scholarship. Raytheon Technologies creates security tech for air, space, and ground communication, while the SVA is committed to helping veteran students pursue effective educations. The SVA works with several companies and organizations, creating scholarship opportunities so that veterans can seek out the kind of education that they need and deserve.

Award
$10,000
Deadline
April 5, 2021

17

SAIC Cyberwarrior Scholarship Applicants

saicThe SAIC CyberWarrior Scholarship awards various amounts of money to returning military veterans, so it’s full of opportunities when it comes to scholarships for cyber security. The purpose of the scholarship is to help returning veterans re-enter the civilian workforce by helping them get an education in cyber security. The deadline to submit an application is March 2nd of 2021. The scholarship will be awarded to several types of military members and veterans, so read through the categories on the website to see if you qualify. These scholarships come with a certification exam voucher.

SAIC is an engineering and information technology company. It serves the United States military, the intelligence community, health services, and more, so it plays a big part in keeping various parts of the US safe. With IT training, program management, and a long list of innovative technologies, SAIC is committed to safety on all levels. The CyberWarrior scholarship is just one of many ways that SAIC is helping to ensure safety in the United States.

Award
varies
Deadline
March 2, 2021

18

Scholarships for Women Studying Information Security

craThe Computing Research Association offers Scholarships for Women Studying Information Security. Though the 2021 application deadline was February 1st, the application period for 2022 will start on December 15th of this year. If you want to get a head start on next year’s cyber security scholarships for undergraduates, you should look into these possibilities. These scholarships go up to $10,000, and they’re awarded to women who are earning either a bachelor’s or master’s degree in information technology.

The CRA-WP (Computing Research Association – Widening Participation) is an organization that serves underrepresented groups in the computing research field. It serves undergraduates, grad students, and researchers. Its programs support women, racial minorities, and disabled people by improving working environments, encouraging participation, and providing resources like the Scholarships for Women Studying Information Security. Through the work of the CRA-WP, the STEM world can become a more diverse place.

Award
up to $10,000
Deadline
by 2/1 each year - Application Period: December 15 – February 1

19

SFS Scholarship Program - CyberCorps®: Scholarship for Service

nsfThe SFS Scholarship program awards several grants through the National Science Foundation. Because these grants vary, so do the amounts awarded. The deadline for applications is September 19th of 2021. These scholarship are not just scholarships for cyber security. They’re scholarships for service, meaning that students must commit to working for the US government in a cyber security position. For those who were already considering a US government position, this grant program may help jumpstart their career goals.

The National Science Foundation is dedicated to advancing science and technology, including making advancements in cyber security and other types of internet safety. It accomplishes this mission through extensive research, grants, and awards. It also provides resources for those who want to keep up with the latest news in science and technology. The National Science Foundation is deeply important to STEM fields in the US, and through its resources and scholarships, it will continue to remain an important voice.

Award
varies
Deadline
9/19/2021

20

Stokes Educational Scholarship Program

national security agency nsaThe Stokes Educational Scholarship program is for high school seniors who plan to major in cyber security or a related field. The deadline is at the end of October, and the committee will start accepting applications in September of this year. The Stokes Educational Scholarship is a $30,000 award that also comes with the opportunity to work for the NSA, as well as other benefits.

The Stokes Educational Scholarship Program comes from the National Security Agency, a service of the US government. The NSA is devoted to cyber security. It examines threats to the technological safety of the United States, recognizing that cyber threats are some of the fastest-growing threats. Through work study programs and scholarships for cyber security, the NSA is empowering young people to get involved in this mission, ensuring the future of cyber safety in the US.

Award
up to $30,000
Deadline
end of October - Applications are accepted in the Fall (September-October)

21

The Nelson H. Waits, Sr. Education Fund

icmcpThe Nelson H Waits Sr. Education Fund is a scholarship award that goes up to $2,500. Recipients must be either female, a veteran, a racial minority, or a combination of any of the above. These are not just cyber security scholarships for high school seniors. They apply to all eligible winners who are entering a STEM program for college. Cyber security is listed as one of the possible STEM subjects for award recipients. Scholarships are awarded based on merit, including academic achievement and leadership ability. The application deadline is July 15th.

The Nelson H. Waits Sr. Education Fund comes from the International Consortium of Minority Cybersecurity Professionals. The ICMCP offers several scholarships, including training scholarships. This nonprofit organization is dedicated to helping women and minorities achieve success in cyber security, both as a field of work and as a study. In addition to funding scholarships, the ICMCP offers grant funding, facilitates mentorships, and fosters communication among women and minorities in cyber security.

Award
up to a $2,500
Deadline
July 15 2024

22

The Yellow Ribbon Program

veterans affairsThe Yellow Ribbon Program is unique among scholarships for cyber security. This scholarship program was designed to help post-9/11 veterans pay for college. Veterans who qualify for the maximum benefit under the Post-9/11 GI Bill also qualify for the Yellow Ribbon Program. The difference is that the Yellow Ribbon Program is for those attending higher-cost schools, including private schools, out of state schools, or graduate schools. The amount of money varies based on education level, and the deadline varies based on other factors. Potential applicants should read through all of the eligibility requirements to make sure that they qualify.

The Yellow Ribbon Program comes from the US Department of Veterans Affairs. Schools that participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program are generally military-friendly schools. These partnerships allow many veterans to attend college for little or no money out of pocket, helping them to move forward in their lives and careers after their service. You can contact your preferred school to find out if that school participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program.

Award
varies by education level
Deadline
varies

23

US Cyber Challenge Scholarships

usccThe US Cyber Challenge Scholarships are $500 scholarships for Cyber Challenge participants. What’s unique about this opportunity is that it’s not a simple “apply and wait” process. Instead, participants can compete in Cyber Quests – free online competitions hosted by the USCC. Top performers receive invitations to USCC Cyber Camps, which the USCC sponsors alongside high-ranking STEM universities. These camps feature training and panels, and each one concludes with a competition. Winners of that competition receive a scholarship. It may not be as simple as some other scholarships, but it’s certainly a great opportunity.

The US Cyber Challenge is a unique and engaging program for young people who are interested in cyber security. It’s far more than just a set of cyber security scholarships for high school seniors. The USCC exists to recruit some of the brightest young minds for future cyber security careers. Between the scholarship opportunities, the panels, and the award-winning training, the USCC provides some of the best learning options for students who want to jumpstart exciting and valuable careers.

Award
$500
Deadline
varies

24

VIP’s Women in Technology Scholarship

visionary integrationVisionary Integration Professionals offers several scholarship opportunities, including the Women in Technology Scholarship. This scholarship is a $2,500 award for women who are entering college to become information technology professionals. Related fields are welcome as well. Since its inception, this scholarship has helped fund the educations of more than 125 women throughout the US, making it a prolific award among scholarships for cyber security. The deadline to apply for the Women in Technology Scholarship is April 1st.

Visionary Integration Professionals is a solutions provider for both government and commercial organizations. Its solutions include case management, licensing enforcement, public safety, and more. Naturally, VIP promotes the importance of cyber security, and its team members believe in the value of education for future cyber security professionals. That’s why VIP offers scholarships and other opportunities for cyber security students.

Award
$2,500
Deadline
April 1st

25

Women Techmakers Scholars Program

women techmakersThe Women Techmakers Scholars Program is a great opportunity for women seeking an education in tech. It’s a $10,000 scholarship for women who are currently enrolled in an accredited four-year program or master’s program. Applicants must be studying computer science, computer engineering, or a similar field such as cyber security. The application deadline varies, so applicants should check the web page for more information. In any case, women who are looking for scholarships for cyber security should absolutely check out this program.

The Women Techmakers Scholars Program used to be called the Google Anita Borg Memorial Scholarship Program. Dr. Borg was a woman in tech who worked toward gender equality in the field. She knew that women in tech could become well-respected leaders, and yet women continue to be underrepresented in STEM fields. This scholarship was created in honor of Anita’s efforts to close that gender gap and empower women to succeed in STEM.

Award
$10,000
Deadline
varies

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