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Veterans Cyber Academy

The SANS Veterans Cyber Academy is an intensive, accelerated training program that provides world-class SANS training and GIAC certifications to launch careers quickly and effectively in cybersecurity. The SANS Cyber Academies are 100% scholarship-based, at no cost to students.
How the Program WorksEligibility RequirementsAcademy CurriculumTime CommitmentPartners

How The Program Works

Interested candidates will follow the application process below, candidates must earn an invitation to progress to each stage of the process.

  • Complete a web application form.
  • The application will be reviewed, and an online assessment sent within three days.
  • Complete the online assessment before application close.
  • Assessment results are reviewed once a week.
  • Submit supporting documents to complete the application.
  • Complete an interview questionnaire.
  • All candidates receive notification of acceptance or denial, the notification timeframe is dependent on the volume of applications.
  • The application process is a competitive process. You must be invited to each of the stages listed above.
  • All applicants will lose access to the online assessment upon application close.

2023 Academy Schedule

Nov.
November 1 - Application Window Opens
Nov.
November 30 – Application Window Closes
Feb.
February 2024 – Training Begins
Oct.
October, 2024 – Program Completion

Eligibility Requirements

This Academy is open to: - Veterans - Transitioning service members who are within six months of separation (ETS) at the time of application. - Active Duty Military Spouses - Must not have prior or current work experience in the information security field outside of previous military experience. - Must be a U.S. citizen or Permanent Legal Resident (Green Card holder) currently residing in the U.S.

Curriculum

The first course you take will be SEC275 Foundations & GFACT Certification
The second course you will take is SEC401 Security Essentials & GSEC Certification
The third and final course you will take is SEC504 Incident Handling & GCIH Certification
Application and Academy Roadmap

Step by Step Information on the Application Process

Learn more about the application process and how the academy helps launch your new cybersecurity career in less than a year.

For questions about the SANS Cyber Academy, applications, or process please contact academies@sans.org.

View Application Guide

Time Commitment for Students

The Veterans Cyber Academy is a fast-track, intensive program, and students are expected to complete all coursework and certifications in up to nine months. On average, it takes most SANS Cyber Academy students 100 hours to prepare for one GIAC certification attempt.

"Academy graduates are able to on-ramp very quickly with employers, having already proven their ability to perform crucial cybersecurity tasks."

- Chris Elgee SANS Cyber Academy Mentor & Alumni

Non-Profit Partners

Women in Cybersecurity Logo
Cyversity Logo
Women's Society of Cyberjutsu
Goodwill Industries Logo
Dream To Succeed Logo