Scholarship Opportunity

Cybersecurity Public Service Scholarship Program

Offered by Maryland Higher Education Commission

The Cybersecurity Public Service Scholarship Program provides Maryland state financial assistance to eligible students enrolled in approved cybersecurity degree or certificate programs. The program supports students preparing for cybersecurity careers while encouraging graduates to pursue qualifying public service employment in Maryland.

Minimum GPA3.0+
EssayNot required
RenewableYes
Grade LevelCollege Freshman, College Sophomore, College Junior, College Senior, Graduate Student

Application Timeline

Important application dates

This scholarship offers more than one application cycle. Review each window carefully before applying.

2026–2027 Award Year

OpensJanuary 15, 2026
DeadlineOctober 15, 2026

Eligibility

  • Be eligible for Maryland in-state tuition.
  • Be enrolled at a Maryland public or private nonprofit institution.
  • Be enrolled in an approved credit-bearing cybersecurity degree or certificate program.
  • Be within three years of graduation from the approved cybersecurity program.
  • Have completed at least 25 percent of the total credits required for the approved degree or certificate program at the time of application.
  • Maintain at least a 3.0 cumulative GPA at the institution where currently enrolled.
  • Enroll full-time or part-time.
  • Not receive the Federal CyberCorps Scholarship for Service award in conjunction with this scholarship.
  • Meet all additional program and public service requirements established by MHEC.

Requirements

  • Complete the Cybersecurity Public Service Scholarship application through MDCAPS.
  • Submit an official or unofficial college transcript.
  • Submit the Institutional Verification Form provided through MDCAPS.
  • Have the institution verify enrollment in an approved cybersecurity program.
  • Have the institution verify that the applicant is within three years of completing the approved program.
  • Submit all required application materials through MDCAPS by the published deadline.
  • Maintain at least a 3.0 GPA and satisfactory academic progress for renewal.
  • Complete the applicable public service obligation associated with accepting the scholarship.

How to Apply

  1. 1Log in to MDCAPS and complete the Cybersecurity Public Service Scholarship application.
  2. 2Confirm that your cybersecurity degree or certificate appears on MHEC's approved program list.
  3. 3Obtain an official or unofficial college transcript.
  4. 4Access the Institutional Verification Form through MDCAPS and have your institution complete the required certification.
  5. 5Upload all required documentation through MDCAPS.
  6. 6Submit the complete application and supporting documents by October 15, 2026.
  7. 7Monitor MDCAPS for application updates and requests for additional information.
  8. 8If awarded, review and complete all requirements associated with the scholarship's public service obligation.