A New Era for the SANS Cyber Academy

In today's cybersecurity landscape, our ability to defend systems, data, and critical infrastructure depends on a well-trained workforce that can stay ahead of evolving threats. Since 2015, the SANS Cyber Academy has been equipping individuals with the practical skills and certifications they need to launch high-impact careers in the industry.

Now, the Academy is entering its next phase—one designed to train more people, open more doors, and address the cybersecurity talent shortage more directly than ever before. Beginning in 2025, all SANS-led mission training academies in North America, previously known by different program names, will now operate under a single, unified banner: SANS Cyber Academy.

This change brings clarity and scale to our mission-focused efforts. Instead of multiple segmented application tracks, there will now be one streamlined process open to qualified individuals across the country who demonstrate the aptitude and commitment needed to succeed in the cybersecurity field.

What’s new:

• Unified program name: All North American mission training academies, including the SANS Diversity Academy, SANS Women’s Academy, and SANS Veterans Academy, are now part of the SANS Cyber Academy.
• Quarterly application cycles: With four application periods per year, qualified applicants won’t have to wait long to get started.
• Larger cohort sizes: Each incoming class will train approximately 125 individuals through a fully sponsored, intensive curriculum.

SANS’ focus and mission is on supporting under-resourced career changers across all communities. While we are no longer running separate programs by demographic category, our commitment to accessible training remains unchanged. The Academy will continue to serve career changers with limited financial means, veterans transitioning to the civilian workforce, individuals from under-resourced communities, and aspiring professionals seeking hands-on training and GIAC certifications.

In recent application cycles, we’ve seen a dramatic increase in interest from capable individuals eager to contribute to the cybersecurity workforce. In fact, the number of qualified applicants now exceeds available seats by a factor of four. This demand signals a major opportunity to expand the national cybersecurity talent pool and equip aspiring new professionals with mission-critical skills and industry-respected GIAC certifications. The newly unified Academy answers the call with an efficient, merit-driven selection process and training experience built around real-world job roles and skills.

Program Overview

The SANS Cyber Academy is a rigorous training program that spans 9 months. Participants move through three progressive SANS courses—each paired with a corresponding GIAC certification exam that must be passed to advance:

• SEC275: Foundations: Computers, Technology & Security → GFACT
• SEC401: Security Essentials – Network, Endpoint, and Cloud → GSEC
• SEC504: Hacker Tools, Techniques & Incident Handling → GCIH

These certifications are widely recognized by employers across the public and private sectors and represent practical readiness for high-demand cybersecurity roles. Graduates finish the program in one year, with 87% of alumni employed in cybersecurity within 12 months of completion. The average starting salary is $87,000, reflecting the strong market value of these skills.

Application Requirements

The SANS Cyber Academy is open to individuals who meet the following criteria:

• Are not currently enrolled in a college or university program
• Do not hold a master’s degree or PhD
• Do not hold prior or current experience in the cybersecurity or information security field
• Can commit to full-time training and certification testing over a nine-month period

The Academy operates on the principle of economic need and demonstrated aptitude. Admission is competitive and based on a multi-stage application process, including aptitude testing and screening. Those selected will receive fully funded training and exam access at no cost to the participant.

Securing the Future: Training, Talent, and Readiness

The cybersecurity skills gap remains one of the greatest challenges facing national defense and economic stability. The SANS Cyber Academy is a direct response, equipping new professionals with job-ready skills, highly valued certifications, and the confidence to succeed in high-stakes environments.

Applications for upcoming Academy programs will be open on the following dates:

• Fall 2025: July 25 – August 15, 2025
• Winter 2026: October 15 – November 5, 2025
• Spring 2026: January 23 – February 13, 2026
• Summer 2026: April 22 – May 15, 2026
• Fall 2026: July 24 – August 14, 2026

Interested in pursuing a career in cybersecurity? Learn more about how the SANS Cyber Academy is opening wider pathways into the field by visiting https://www.sans.org/cyber-academy.