As cyber threats become more complex, the demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals is at an all-time high. For graduate students passionate about cybersecurity, pursuing advanced education is essential but it often comes with significant financial challenges.
Scholarships can alleviate this burden and support your journey toward becoming a cybersecurity expert. Below, we highlight the 10 best cybersecurity scholarships for graduate students in 2024 that you can apply for today.
1. (ISC)² Graduate Cybersecurity Scholarship
The (ISC)² Graduate Cybersecurity Scholarship supports students pursuing degrees in cybersecurity or related fields. The program aims to cultivate a new generation of cybersecurity leaders worldwide.
- Eligibility: Enrolled or planning to enroll in a graduate-level cybersecurity program.
- Scholarship Amount: $1,000–$5,000
- Deadline: March 2024
2. SANS Cybersecurity Diversity Scholarship
This scholarship is designed to promote diversity in the field of cybersecurity. It supports underrepresented groups and encourages their participation in cybersecurity education and careers.
- Eligibility: Graduate students from underrepresented communities pursuing cybersecurity.
- Scholarship Amount: Covers full tuition for SANS courses and certifications.
- Deadline: Applications open in early 2024.
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3. CyberCorps®: Scholarship for Service (SFS)
Funded by the U.S. government, this scholarship is for students committed to working in public-sector cybersecurity roles after graduation.
- Eligibility: Graduate students enrolled in cybersecurity or information assurance programs. U.S. citizenship is required.
- Scholarship Amount: Full tuition, living stipend of $34,000 annually, and academic fees.
- Deadline: February 2024
Visit the CyberCorps® website for more information.
4. Women in Cybersecurity (WiCyS) Scholarships
WiCyS offers several scholarships to encourage and empower women pursuing cybersecurity education. These scholarships support conference attendance, tuition, and professional development.
- Eligibility: Women enrolled in a graduate cybersecurity program.
- Scholarship Amount: Varies by program.
- Deadline: Multiple deadlines throughout the year.
Explore opportunities on the WiCyS website.
5. Department of Defense (DoD) SMART Scholarship
The Science, Mathematics, and Research for Transformation (SMART) Scholarship is a competitive program for students in cybersecurity and STEM fields. Recipients commit to working for the DoD after graduation.
- Eligibility: Graduate students in cybersecurity-related programs.
- Scholarship Amount: Full tuition, health insurance, and a $38,000 stipend.
- Deadline: December 2023
Apply via the DoD SMART website.
6. Raytheon Intelligence & Space Cybersecurity Scholarship
Raytheon offers scholarships to graduate students passionate about protecting digital assets and infrastructure. Recipients also gain access to mentorship opportunities.
- Eligibility: U.S. citizens pursuing cybersecurity degrees.
- Scholarship Amount: $10,000
- Deadline: April 2024
Learn more at the Raytheon Technologies website.
7. Google’s Women Techmakers Scholars Program
This prestigious program supports women pursuing degrees in technology fields, including cybersecurity. Along with financial support, it provides access to exclusive networking and professional development opportunities.
- Eligibility: Women in cybersecurity or tech-related graduate programs.
- Scholarship Amount: $10,000
- Deadline: May 2024
Details can be found on the Women Techmakers website.
8. Palantir Cybersecurity Scholarship for Underrepresented Groups
Palantir Technologies offers this scholarship to graduate students from underrepresented backgrounds. The program includes financial aid and mentorship opportunities.
- Eligibility: Students from historically underrepresented groups in cybersecurity.
- Scholarship Amount: $7,000
- Deadline: March 2024
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9. Cybersecurity Public Service Scholarship Program
This state-funded scholarship is available to students who commit to working in public-sector cybersecurity roles. Specific states, like Virginia, offer this program.
- Eligibility: Graduate students in cybersecurity-related fields with a public service commitment.
- Scholarship Amount: Full or partial tuition coverage.
- Deadline: Varies by state.
Check with your state’s education department for details.
10. Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) Cybersecurity Scholarship
HPE supports graduate students pursuing advanced degrees in cybersecurity and related fields. The program emphasizes innovation and leadership in the digital security domain.
- Eligibility: Graduate students with academic excellence in cybersecurity.
- Scholarship Amount: $5,000
- Deadline: June 2024
Explore more on the HPE website.
Tips for a Successful Scholarship Application
Winning a cybersecurity scholarship requires careful preparation. Here’s how to stand out:
- Highlight Your Passion: Showcase your dedication to cybersecurity through academic achievements, internships, or projects.
- Craft a Compelling Essay: Clearly articulate your career goals and how the scholarship will help you achieve them.
- Obtain Strong Recommendations: Seek letters from professors or industry professionals familiar with your work.
- Double-Check Deadlines: Late submissions are typically not accepted. Submit your application early to avoid last-minute issues.