Investing in the Next Generation
CISO Network
Scholarship Program
We built one of the most elite cybersecurity communities in the world. Now we're investing in the students who will lead it next. The CISO Network Scholarship Program is fully self-funded — no sponsors, no strings, no agenda except building a stronger security future.
$2,500–$10K
Award Range
5+
Scholars Per Year
6,500+
CISO Mentors Available
100%
Self-Funded by CISO Network
What Scholars Receive
More Than a Check
Financial Award
Direct scholarship awards ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 per academic year, funded entirely by CISO Network. No repayment. No strings attached.
CISO Mentorship
Each scholar is paired with a senior CISO from our 6,500+ member network for one-on-one mentorship throughout the award period.
Community Access
Full access to CISO Network events, Slack community, and educational resources — the same access our senior members receive.
Career Pathways
Introductions to hiring CISOs, internship opportunities, and a direct pipeline into the most elite cybersecurity organizations in the world.
Conference Sponsorship
Sponsored attendance to select CISO Network events and industry conferences including BSides, ISSA chapter events, and our signature dinners.
Alumni Network
Scholars join a growing alumni community of CISO Network-backed professionals — a lifelong network of peers who started the same journey.
Who Can Apply
Eligibility Requirements
We look for students who are serious about a career in cybersecurity — not just academically, but as practitioners and community members. If you're already involved in the security community, we want to hear from you.
Currently enrolled in an accredited cybersecurity, computer science, or information assurance degree program (undergraduate or graduate)
Demonstrated financial need or first-generation college student status
Minimum 3.0 GPA or equivalent academic standing
Demonstrated passion for cybersecurity through coursework, projects, CTF participation, or community involvement
US citizen or permanent resident (international students considered for select awards)
Letter of recommendation from a faculty member, employer, or community leader
Application Cycle
Timeline
Applications Open
January 15, 2027Online application portal opens. All required materials must be submitted through the portal.
Application Deadline
March 31, 2027All applications, essays, transcripts, and letters of recommendation must be received.
Review Period
April – May 2027Applications reviewed by the CISO Network Scholarship Committee, comprised of senior member CISOs.
Finalist Interviews
Late May 2027Finalists are invited to a virtual interview with the Scholarship Committee.
Awards Announced
June 1, 2027Recipients are notified and publicly recognized across the CISO Network community.
Funds Disbursed
August 2027Award funds are disbursed directly to the recipient's institution for the upcoming academic year.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How many scholarships are awarded each year?
CISO Network awards a minimum of five scholarships annually. As the program grows, we are committed to expanding the number of awards each cycle.
Can I apply if I am pursuing a certification rather than a degree?
Currently the scholarship is focused on degree-seeking students. We are developing a separate certification support program — contact us to be notified when it launches.
Is the scholarship renewable?
Yes. Recipients who maintain academic standing and remain enrolled may reapply for renewal each year. Renewal is not automatic and requires a brief progress report.
What makes a strong application?
Beyond academics, we look for genuine passion for the security community — participation in CTFs, open-source contributions, BSides volunteering, or any evidence that you are already giving back to the field.
How does the mentorship pairing work?
After selection, each scholar completes a brief profile. The Scholarship Committee matches scholars with a CISO mentor based on career interests, geography, and industry focus. Mentors commit to at least one hour per month.
Ready to Apply?
Applications for the 2027 cycle open January 15, 2027. Submit your inquiry now and we'll notify you the moment the portal opens.