Cyber Foundations Academy

A four-month practical online course providing hands-on technical training, industry recognized certifications, and interactive training sessions with world-class instructors and experts. The Academy provides free access to essential cybersecurity foundational training and certification.

Geographic Scope: United States

Focus Areas:

• Core cybersecurity foundational knowledge and skills
• 50 core knowledge and skill sets (many hands-on)
• Computer hardware, Linux, networking, programming, security concepts
• Industry-recognized GIAC certification

Eligibility:

• High school and college students
• Must be invited based on demonstrated aptitude through CyberStart America or Cyber FastTrack (2021-2024)
• Invitation-only program

Key Features:

• Course Duration: 4 months, flexible schedule
• Content: Over 120 hours of engaging video tutorials, case studies, personal accounts from the field
• Instructor: Led by cybersecurity expert and SANS CTO James Lyne
• Labs: Hands-on lab experiences, practical exercises
• Certification: GIAC certification upon completion
• Cost: Free access for qualified participants
• System Requirements: Modern web browser (Chrome or Firefox), recommended access to virtual machine for labs
• Skills Covered: Computer hardware, Linux, networking, programming, security concepts (covers 50 core competencies)

Syllabus Development: Developed through consensus of 500+ cybersecurity professionals from 300+ major cybersecurity employers, managed by Center for Internet Security and Cyber Talent Institute. Represents "minimum acceptable technical skills needed to qualify for entry-level technical job in cybersecurity."

2024 Program Details:

• Started: February 1, 2024
• Late registration: Not available

Organization: National Cyber Scholarship Foundation (NCSF), in partnership with SANS Institute

Related Programs: Advanced program following CyberStart America and Cyber FastTrack success.

Application Process

• Invitation-Based: Access is awarded by invitation only to students who ranked highly in CyberStart America or Cyber FastTrack programs during 2021-2024
• Notification: Invited participants receive full registration instructions via email
• Registration: Must complete course registration by specified deadline (e.g., February 7, 2024)
• Late Registration: Not permitted under any circumstances if deadline is missed
• No Direct Applications: Students do not apply directly; they are selected based on performance in CyberStart America or Cyber FastTrack

Required System Specifications

• Modern web browser (Chrome or Firefox preferred)
• Browser must be updated to latest version for security and functionality
• Recommended: Access to virtual machine or personal system for independent practice with tools and techniques
• Web-based labs accessible without high-end hardware requirements