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Your Pathway to a Cybersecurity Career
The SANS Cyber Academy equips individuals from under-resourced communities with hands-on cybersecurity training and industry-recognized GIAC certifications.
This is a highly competitive aptitude-based scholarship program. Selection is based on aptitude, and participation must be earned.
Why Choose SANS Cyber Academy?
A proven model for workforce development and career transformation.
87% job placement rate within 12 months
Over 4588 scholarships awarded globally
Average graduate salary: $87,000
Hands-on Cybersecurity Training
Three stages of training, each preparing you for industry-recognized certifications.
Key Dates for the Current Application Cycle
Plan ahead and be prepared for the training schedule.
Application Open Date: July 25, 2025
Application Deadline: August 15, 2025
Training Start Date: October 15, 2025
Training Completion Date: July, 2026
Hear from Our Graduates
Our alumni are securing jobs in top organizations.
Our Employer Partners
We collaborate with top cybersecurity organizations dedicated to hiring Cyber Academy graduates.
Our Non-Profit Partners
We collaborate with non-profits that support cybersecurity education and workforce development.
Modeled Partner Academies
These externally run programs are based on the SANS Cyber Academy model, utilizing its proven curriculum and structure to develop cybersecurity professionals. They are highly competitive and sought after by many aspiring cybersecurity professionals.
A cybersecurity training program for WiCyS members.
Mission 43 Veterans Academy
Cyber Workforce Academy Maryland
Southeastern Cyber Workforce Alliance (SECWA)
FAQs
Answers to common questions about the SANS Cyber Academy.
Eligibility: Who can apply for the SANS Cyber Academy?
- The program is open to U.S. citizens and legal permanent residents.
- Applicants must demonstrate an aptitude for cybersecurity through an online assessment.
Not Eligible:
- Current full-time or part-time students in an undergraduate or graduate program are not eligible due to the program's intensive course material.
- Those who have earned a graduate degree in cybersecurity, information security or a related field are not eligible to apply. Undergraduate degrees will be considered.
- Those who have already earned a GIAC certification are not eligible to apply. Those with GFACT may be considered.
- Those with prior or current work experience in the cybersecurity or information security field are not eligible to apply.
Application Process: How do I apply for the SANS Cyber Academy?
- The process includes an initial online application, and an aptitude assessment.
- Only those who successfully complete each stage will be considered for acceptance.
Program Cost: Is this program 100% scholarship-based?
- Yes, all training and certification costs are covered for accepted students.
- However, this is a merit-based scholarship program, and not everyone who applies will be selected.
Time Commitment: How long does the training take?
- The program runs for approximately one year.
- Each course must be completed within a three-month window, including preparation for certification exams.
- Participants should expect to dedicate significant study time to succeed.
- Each course requires approximately 150 hours of preparation.
Certifications: Which GIAC certifications are included?
- SEC275: Foundations & GFACT Certification
- SEC401: Security Essentials & GSEC Certification
- SEC504: Incident Handling & GCIH Certification
- GIAC certifications serve as the capstone for each training course and must be earned. Successfully passing the corresponding GIAC exam is required to advance to the next SANS training course in the academy.
Competitiveness: How competitive is the application process?
- Admission to the SANS Cyber Academy is highly competitive.
- Selection is based on aptitude, commitment, and the ability to succeed in an intensive training environment.
- Not everyone who applies will be accepted, and only the most qualified applicants will be selected.
In the News: SANS Cyber Academy
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