WiCyS Security Training Scholarship
Offered by Women in Cybersecurity (WiCyS)
About This Scholarship
The WiCyS Security Training Scholarship is a multi-tiered training award from Women in Cybersecurity, a nonprofit dedicated to recruiting and advancing women in the cybersecurity workforce. Rather than a cash check, winners receive an escalating package of SANS Institute training courses and GIAC certification attempts across five tiers, starting with foundational coursework (SEC275/GFACT) and advancing through core security certifications such as GSEC and GCIH. Because a single SANS course with certification typically costs several thousand dollars, the total value for scholars who progress through the tiers far exceeds most cash scholarships.
The program targets women who are close to entering the field: applicants must be prepared to enter the cybersecurity job market within 18 months, must not currently or previously have worked in cybersecurity, and cannot already hold a master's degree or Ph.D. in a cyber or IT field. That makes it a strong fit for college students, recent graduates, and career changers rather than established practitioners. Selection begins with a competitive essay round, and advancement through the tiers is performance-based.
Active WiCyS membership is required to apply, and only first-time applicants are eligible. The application window is short, so interested candidates should join WiCyS and complete the application well before the end-of-September deadline.
Eligibility
- Identify as a woman and be an active WiCyS member, age 18 or older
- Not currently or formerly employed in cybersecurity
- Prepared to enter the cybersecurity job market within 18 months
- No master's degree or Ph.D. in a cyber- or IT-related field
- No existing GIAC certifications offered in the program; first-time applicants only
How To Apply
- Join Women in Cybersecurity (WiCyS) if you are not already an active member
- Complete the online application on the WiCyS scholarship portal, including the competitive essay, before September 30, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. CT
- If selected, complete each training tier to advance to the next level of SANS courses and GIAC certification attempts
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a cash scholarship?
No. Winners receive SANS Institute training courses and GIAC certification vouchers across a tiered program instead of money. The training and certifications are worth thousands of dollars and are among the most recognized credentials in the security industry.
Do I need to be a cybersecurity student to apply?
No specific major is required, but you must be prepared to enter the cybersecurity job market within about 18 months, must not have worked in cybersecurity before, and cannot hold a graduate degree in a cyber or IT field.
Can I apply more than once?
No. The program is limited to first-time applicants, so prior applicants are not eligible to reapply.