Want a Career in Cybersecurity? These 10 scholarships for cybersecurity can make it happen! There has never been a greater need for qualified cybersecurity specialists due to the increase in cyber threats. But let’s face it earning a degree in this field can be expensive. What if you could secure funding and focus on mastering the skills needed to protect digital assets? That’s where top cybersecurity scholarships come in!
From government-backed awards to private sector grants, these funding opportunities can help you launch your cybersecurity career without the financial stress. This article explores the top 10 cybersecurity scholarships, their eligibility requirements, benefits, and how you can apply to secure funding for your studies. Ready to discover the best options for 2025? Keep reading to find out!
Why Pursue Scholarships for Cybersecurity?
One of the fastest-growing fields is cybersecurity, but obtaining a degree in this area can be costly. These scholarships in cybersecurity provide benefits that go beyond financial gain, in addition to the apparent benefits of lowering college expenses. Additionally, these scholarships for cybersecurity students include access to specialized training programs at top cybersecurity universities, internship placements, and mentorship possibilities.
Employers such as Google, Microsoft, and the NSA make significant investments in cybersecurity expertise. Federal cybersecurity jobs are given preference to beneficiaries of government-sponsored scholarships. Additionally, the high compensation package for cybersecurity positions means that putting in the time to apply for scholarships will pay off well in the long run.
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10 Top Scholarships for Cybersecurity
Many smart people are unable to pursue the required education because of financial limitations, even though there is a great need for qualified cybersecurity specialists. Scholarships in cybersecurity are a doorway that is providing opportunities for prospective security professionals worldwide. Let’s examine the best scholarships for cybersecurity available for international students.
1. CyberCorps Scholarship for Service Program (SFS)
- Funded By: National Science Foundation (NSF)
- Award Amount: $27,000/year (undergraduates) & $37,000/year (graduates)
- Deadline: 15 July 2025
The goal of this esteemed scholarship for cybersecurity is to build a robust cybersecurity workforce to support the objectives of the federal, state, municipal, and tribal governments’ cybersecurity missions. Through recognized universities, the program provides cybersecurity scholarships to students seeking degrees in artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and aerospace security. One must be recommended by their university and fulfill the requirements for this award, which are determined by factors including academic achievement, success potential, and fit for government work.
You must work for a federal, state, municipal, or tribal government entity for the same amount of time as your scholarship support in order to get the funds. For a maximum of three years, this cyber scholarship program pays for tuition, a stipend, and a professional allowance of $6,000. Undergraduates receive $27,000 and graduate students receive $37,000 in stipends for the academic year.
Qualification Requirements:
- Be a US citizen
- Participating in a full-time cybersecurity course
- Maintain a good GPA
2. Central Intelligence Agency: Undergraduate Scholarship Program
- Funded By: Central Intelligence Agency (CIA)
- Award Amount: $18,000 & $25,000 (STEM majors)
- Deadline: 30 June 2025
The CIA Undergraduate Scholarship Program, which is need-based, is among the top scholarships for cybersecurity. Tuition, required fees, and book costs are covered. One must work at the CIA during the summers and attend an authorized college or university full-time in order to be eligible for this cybersecurity scholarship. Students can gain practical experience with real-world intelligence difficulties related to their subject of study by working at the CIA. The awardees are also required to work for the organization for a duration equal to 1.5 times the duration of their sponsorship after they graduate. You must pay back the US government for your tuition if you depart before then.
Qualification Requirement:
- Proof of financial need
- Work in the WMA for at least 12 weeks per summer on a full-time basis.
- Keep your GPA between 3.0 and 4.0.
- Keep your cybersecurity degree as your major.
- Uphold excellent work performance, attendance, and behavior standards both at work and in school.
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3. The Snort Scholarship
- Funded By: Cisco
- Award Amount: $10,000
- Deadline: 15 May 2025
The Snort Scholarship, provided by Cisco, comes next on our list of the top scholarships for cybersecurity. It helps students do courses in information technology, cybersecurity, and related subjects. This cybersecurity grant is awarded to students who exhibit academic brilliance, technological proficiency, and a strong interest in the topic. To apply, candidates must submit an essay discussing innovations, trends, and their own experiences in the field of cybersecurity. Students are required to provide a recommendation letter, a completed application, a personal statement, and an official transcript in addition to their essay.
Qualification Requirements:
- Be a senior in high school about to graduate.
- Getting a degree in IT, cybersecurity, or a similar discipline
4. SMART Scholarship
- Funded By: US Department of Defense
- Award Amount: $30,000 – $46,000
- Deadline: 5 December 2025
One of the top scholarships for cybersecurity certifications is the SMART scholarship, which is supported by the US Department of Defense. In addition to complete tuition coverage, it provides yearly stipends, internships at DoD installations, and post-graduation employment guarantees. This cybersecurity fellowship is intended for STEM undergraduate, graduate, and doctorate students. Applicants must be US citizens, have a 3.0 GPA, and commit to DoD service for the duration of the scholarship year in order to be eligible for the SMART Scholarship.
Qualification Requirements:
- Attending a recognized US university to pursue a graduate degree
- Obtain a transcript of studies from a US college or institution with regional accreditation.
- No housing hassles, no data breaches!
5. ISC2 Undergraduate Scholarship
- Funded By: Center for Education and Cyber Safety
Award Amount: $100,000, with each winner receiving $1,000 to $5,000. - Deadline: 3 March 2025
It is available to students all around the world, making it a fantastic opportunity for both domestic and foreign students. It is one of the greatest scholarships for cybersecurity for undergraduate degrees. One must demonstrate academic distinction, a strong interest in cybersecurity, leadership abilities, and involvement in extracurricular activities in order to be eligible for this cybersecurity scholarship. This scholarship also gives you access to industry information and the opportunity to network with professionals in the field.
Qualification Requirements:
- Possess a GPA of at least 3.3.
- Be a senior in high school or enrolled in college.
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6. ISC 2 Graduate Scholarship
- Funded By: Center for Education and Cyber Safety
- Award Amount: $1,000 – $5,000
- Deadline: 3 March 2025
For graduate students pursuing a master’s or doctoral program in cybersecurity, this scholarship is another one of the top scholarships for cybersecurity offered by the Center of Cyber Safety and Education. To be eligible for this prize, students must demonstrate their capacity for research, work history, and a clear goal of changing the cybersecurity landscape. This scholarship for a master’s degree in cybersecurity covers books, tuition, fees, and necessary supplies. Additionally, you must provide a resume, one letter of recommendation, unofficial transcripts, and a completed application form with essay questions.
Qualification Requirement:
- Must be working toward a cybersecurity master’s or doctoral degree.
- Have a GPA of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale
7. Matthew E. Minor Memorial Scholarship
- Funded By: Matthew E. Minor Awareness Foundation
- Award Amount: $5,800
- Deadline: 1 March 2025
Scholarships for cybersecurity enthusiasts are named after cybersecurity expert Matthew E. Minor. The organization provides graduating seniors in the DC, Maryland, and Virginia Metro Area with a number of scholarships each year. Students participating in cybersecurity competitions, research initiatives, or community service are given preference for this award. Additionally required is a personal statement from the student outlining their goals for their career and how they want to advance the cybersecurity industry.
Qualification Requirement:
- Must be admitted to a university or college full-time.
- Have a minimum GPA of 3.0 or above on a 4.0 scale.
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8. Chris Jackson Computer Science Education Scholarship
- Funded By: Chris Jackson’s Family
- Award Amount: $2,000
- Deadline: 2 March 2025
This is one of the top scholarships for cybersecurity and is given to students majoring in computer science, cybersecurity, and software engineering. This cybersecurity scholarship honors students who exhibit leadership abilities, inventiveness, and a dedication to technology and security. It is named in honor of Chris Jackson, a proponent of cybersecurity education. To receive this grant, a candidate must submit an essay or project that highlights their proficiency in cybersecurity.
Qualification Requirement:
- Getting a degree in software engineering, computer science, or cybersecurity
9. ASNE Scholarship Program
- Funded By: American Society of Naval Engineers
- Award Amount: $4,000
- Deadline: 10 February 2025
The ASNE Scholarship Program comes next on our list of the top scholarships for cybersecurity. It assists graduate and undergraduate students, both junior and senior, who are interested in cybersecurity with a concentration on naval applications. Half of the $4,000 scholarship is awarded in the fall, while the other half is awarded in the spring. One must demonstrate academic achievement, leadership potential, and a passion for naval engineering in order to be eligible for this scholarship. Students who get this cybersecurity award will also have the chance to network with naval cybersecurity experts and possible internship opportunities.
Qualification Requirements:
- Graduate students are required to be ASNE members.
- Own a degree program that is approved
10. NDSGC Lillian Goettler Scholarship
- Funded By: North Dakota Space Grant Consortium
- Award Amount: $2,500
- Deadline: 15 February 2025
For female STEM students at North Dakota State University, this is among the top scholarships for cybersecurity available. Students who demonstrate academic brilliance, leadership potential, and a dedication to advancing women in STEM are eligible to apply for this grant, which bears the name of Lillian Goettler, a trailblazer in STEM education. The candidates will also work on a NASA-related research project. Along with a full application that includes essay questions, students must also submit a CV and a letter of recommendation.
Qualification Requirement:
- Have a GPA of 3.5 or higher
- Be a US citizen
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Additional Resources for Cybersecurity Students
Beyond scholarships, here are some resources to boost your cybersecurity career:
- Free Online Courses – Platforms like Coursera, edX, and Cybrary offer free cybersecurity courses.
- Certifications – Earning certifications like CompTIA Security+, CEH, and CISSP can enhance your skills.
- Internships & Networking – Join cybersecurity forums, attend conferences, and apply for internships to gain hands-on experience.
- Government & Private Sector Support – Programs like CyberCorps provide career development opportunities for aspiring professionals.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scholarships for Cybersecurity
1. What are the best scholarships available for cybersecurity students in 2025?
There are several prestigious scholarships for cybersecurity students, including:
- CyberCorps®: Scholarship for Service (SFS): Full tuition, stipend, and a government job placement.
- (ISC)Undergraduate Cybersecurity Scholarship: Up to $5,000 for cybersecurity students.
- SANS CyberTalent Immersion Academy: Covers full tuition for cybersecurity training.
- Raytheon Cybersecurity Scholarship: Up to $10,000 in funding.
- Women in Cybersecurity (WiCys) Scholarship: Supports female students in cybersecurity.
2. Who is eligible for cybersecurity scholarships?
Eligibility varies by program but generally includes:
- Undergraduate or graduate students pursuing cybersecurity or related fields.
- Strong academic performance (GPA requirements may apply).
- U.S. citizens or permanent residents for government-funded scholarships.
- Women, minorities, and underrepresented groups may have dedicated scholarship options.
3. How can I increase my chances of winning a cybersecurity scholarship?
To improve your chances:
- Maintain a high GPA and academic record.
- Gain hands-on experience through internships, research, or cybersecurity competitions.
- Write a compelling personal statement showcasing your passion for cybersecurity.
- Obtain strong letters of recommendation.
- Apply to multiple scholarships to increase your odds.
4. Do cybersecurity scholarships cover certifications and training programs?
Yes, some scholarships specifically cover cybersecurity certifications, such as:
- EC-Council Cybersecurity Scholarships: Covers CEH, CISSP, and other certifications.
- SANS CyberTalent Immersion Academy: Provides full funding for GIAC certification exams.
- CyberCorps®: Scholarship for Service: Covers education and training for cybersecurity careers.
5. Where can I look for scholarships in cybersecurity and apply?
You can find cybersecurity scholarships through:
- Official websites of cybersecurity organizations (e.g., (ISC), EC-Council, SANS Institute).
- University financial aid offices and cybersecurity departments.
- Government scholarship portals like NSA, CyberCorps®, and NSF.
- Scholarship search platforms such as Fastweb, Scholarships.com, and Niche.
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Cybersecurity is a rapidly growing field, and securing a scholarship can be your gateway to a successful and impactful career. With rising threats in the digital world, organizations and governments are investing heavily in cybersecurity education, making scholarships more accessible than ever. Whether you’re an undergraduate, graduate student, or professional looking to upskill, there are funding opportunities tailored to your needs.
By applying for top scholarships for cybersecurity, you can reduce financial stress, gain access to exclusive training programs, and even secure job placements after graduation. Many of these scholarships also provide networking opportunities, mentorship, and industry exposure, giving you a competitive edge in the job market.
Don’t wait—start researching and applying for cybersecurity scholarships today. The earlier you plan, the better your chances of securing financial aid. Invest in your future, build your expertise, and contribute to a safer digital world with the right scholarship backing your journey!