Paller Cybersecurity Scholarship Opens Doors to Global Cybersecurity Talent, Providing World-Class Education to Make the World Safer

Applications are accepted through 15 January 2025.

Bethesda, MD - The SANS Technology Institute (SANS.edu) is excited to announce the opening of a new application cycle for the Paller Cybersecurity Scholarship, a fully funded international scholarship program designed to equip the next generation of cybersecurity professionals from around the world with cutting-edge education and skills to combat rising cyber threats.

Launched in 2023, the Paller Cybersecurity Scholarship offers talented individuals-whether experienced professionals or newcomers to cybersecurity-a unique opportunity to earn globally recognized credentials at the SANS Technology Institute, the leading U.S. college solely dedicated to cybersecurity education. Open exclusively to non-U.S. citizens and designed for working professionals, the program allows international scholars to complete their programs entirely online, enabling recipients to contribute to the safety and security of their communities without the need to relocate.

Vivian Boisabi of Kenya, one of the first Paller Scholars, said, "I envision contributing to the cybersecurity community by applying the knowledge and skills acquired to protect global cyber infrastructures and by leading initiatives that fortify cybersecurity measures within organizations."

Applications for the 2024 Paller Cybersecurity Scholarship are now open and close on 15 January 2025. Final selections will be announced by 28 February 2025, and successful candidates may begin their programs as early as 1 April 2025.

For more information about the Paller Cybersecurity Scholarship, including application details, timelines, and eligibility requirements, visit www.sans.edu/pcs.

Two Tracks to Build or Advance Cybersecurity Careers

The scholarship supports two distinct tracks tailored to individuals at different career stages:

• New to Cyber Track: Open to those seeking to enter the field, this track is available to candidates with at least 48 college credits. No prior technical experience is required, making it an ideal entry point for career changers.
• Experienced Student Track: Designed for individuals with a bachelor's degree and some IT or cybersecurity experience, this track offers rigorous training through SANS.edu's graduate certificate programs and the Master of Science program in Information Security Engineering.

Both tracks include full coverage of all tuition, materials, and GIAC certification exams, ensuring that scholars receive the necessary tools to excel as cybersecurity leaders.

The Alan Paller Legacy in Cybersecurity

Named in honor of Alan Paller, the late founder of the SANS Institute and SANS Technology Institute, the Paller Cybersecurity Scholarship continues his mission of preparing highly skilled defenders against today's complex cyber threats. Alan Paller's legacy lives on through the thousands of cybersecurity professionals trained by SANS, embodying his vision for a safer digital world.

"The SANS Technology Institute is proud to carry on Alan's legacy," said Ed Skoudis, President of the SANS Technology Institute. "This scholarship program identifies and supports outstanding global talent who share our commitment to making a difference in cybersecurity."

Meet the First Cohort of Paller Scholars

The inaugural 2024 cohort of Paller Scholars represents diverse backgrounds and skills from across the globe, unified by their shared mission to protect and secure digital systems in their communities and beyond. These scholars include security analysts, penetration testers, and application security specialists from Romania, Poland, Kenya, the Philippines, Latvia, and more. They are role models for the cybersecurity community and embody the core mission of the Paller Cybersecurity Scholarship.

Michał Bełzak, a 2024 Paller Scholar from Poland, said, "By performing research, sharing my findings and potentially developing open-source tools, I believe I will help make the future a little safer, and be able to give back to the community that has been giving to me for so many years."

Ruta Punka, a 2024 Paller Scholar from Latvia who transitioned to cybersecurity from a career in law, said "Cybersecurity demands constant education to stay on the edge of technology and changes. This scholarship provides me a unique opportunity to learn from the best industry experts, and to develop my knowledge and skills in this dynamic and rapidly growing field."

Learn more about the Paller Cybersecurity Scholarship at www.sans.edu/pcs.

About the SANS Technology Institute

SANS Technology Institute (SANS.edu) is the world's premier cybersecurity college and a leader in global cybersecurity education. Its programs, including undergraduate certificates, bachelor's, master's, and graduate certificate programs, emphasize practical, hands-on learning and industry-recognized GIAC certifications, equipping students with the skills to excel in high-demand cybersecurity roles worldwide.