CyberCorps®: Scholarship for Service

CyberCorps®: Scholarship for Service (SFS) is a unique program funded by a National Science Foundation grant designed to increase and strengthen the cadre of information assurance professionals that protect the government’s critical information infrastructure.

The CyberCorps® SFS is open to undergraduate and graduate students in these specific programs:

• Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Systems
• Bachelor of Science in Information Technology 
• Master of Science in Computer Science and Systems
• Master of Cybersecurity and Leadership

Note that the application process for the CyberCorps®: Scholarship for Service is separate from the SET scholarship and fellowship applications, and has different deadlines for grad and undergrad students. 

A number of SFS scholarships are offered in partnership with the University of Colorado Colorado Springs Ph.D. in Security degree program. For more information, please contact Professor Yan Bai at yanb@uw.edu. 

Eligibility

Students must meet these requirements to apply and receive the CyberCorps® SFS:

• U.S. citizen or permanent resident
• Enrolled in, or applied for admission/transfer to, Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Systems, Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, Master of Science in Computer Science and Systems, or Master of Cybersecurity and Leadership
• Have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher
• Meet selection criteria for federal employment, including obtaining a security clearance

Benefits

• Full tuition and academic fees for up to 3 years
• Annual stipend of $25,000 for undergraduate student and $34,000 for graduate student
• Annual professional allowance of up to $6000
• Eligible and well trained for full-time employment in federal government agencies
  (UWT CyberCorps® scholars are responsible to apply for and obtain a position. The program can provide assistance with identifying employment opportunities)
• Strong potential for progression into a cybersecurity doctoral program with SFS scholarship

Obligations

• Be a full-time student
• Maintain a minimum 3.5 GPA
• Complete a course of study in cybersecurity as approved by the program director. Though there will be some flexibility for individual student interests, most will be required courses.
• Participate in all University of Washington Tacoma CyberCorps® program activities.
• Maintain a lifestyle compatible with government agency requirements to maintain security clearance (e.g. no drugs/felonies, good financial stewardship, etc.).
• Participate in a summer internship with a government agency as approved by the program director between their first and second year in the program.
• Work for a federal executive agency in a qualifying position, upon completing academic degree requirements. PhD students can also work as educators in the field of cybersecurity at qualified institutions of higher education. Length of service depends on length of scholarship support-one year of service for each year of support.

Application Process

The following documents are required to apply:

• Copy of unofficial transcript (from all attended colleges or universities)
• Resume
• Two letters of recommendation from faculty or employers
• Statement of purpose describing professional, personal, and academic goals; commitment to the SFS program, and how the SFS program will help you achieve your goals

Contact

Yan Bai, Ph.D.
Program Director
Email: yanb@uw.edu