Alan Paller Memorial Scholarship Fund created by NCSF's Board of Directors
Get free access to CyberStart, an immersive cybersecurity training game for high school students, with over 200 fun-to-play challenges. Perfect for beginners!
CyberStart America gives students in 9th-12th grade free access to the world-renowned CyberStart game.
Loved by students
"I never knew how fun cybersecurity could be, but CyberStart proved me wrong!"
Building a community
Over 45,000 students discovered their talent and passion for cybersecurity last year.
Amazing prizes
Over $20 million in training scholarships has already been won by CyberStart players.
01 | What is CyberStart?
CyberStart America gives students in 9th-12th grade free access to the world-renowned CyberStart game.
Tackle four unique bases, each focusing on both offensive and defensive cybersecurity disciplines.
Explore over 200 unique security challenges which you'll solve as a cybersecurity agent investigating criminal gangs.
Get access to an extensive Field Manual featuring video demos, top tips and essential background information to help with challenges.
Unlock a hidden interest, progress from novice to expert and demonstrate your skills to win scholarships.
CyberStart was founded by James Lyne, a world leader in cybersecurity education. Built by an expert team of cybersecurity professionals, CyberStart gives you hands-on experience of real-world cybersecurity tasks and simulations that help you learn the skills you need to succeed!
02 | How does CyberStart America work?
Do you like gaming, puzzles or technology? Jump into learning cybersecurity with fun challenges and start defending the online world with your problem-solving skills. Progress at your own pace and when you’re stuck, get extra help with a Field Manual, hints and videos
Humam, Arkansas
"CyberStart is basically a game. It is super fun, engaging, and can even be addictive sometimes with the drive to find the solution pushing you to keep working and building your skills for hours. I would definitely recommend it if you are looking to fill your free time with something fun and productive at the same time!"
Learning with CyberStart means no textbooks or lectures, just fun challenges and simulations which advance your cybersecurity knowledge! Learn a vast range of skills - from computer programming and password security to steganography, network forensics and so much more!
Dagen, Georgia
"The challenges are interesting and engaging, and it is fun and rewarding when you move up levels and gain points. The skills that you learn in this game are used in cybersecurity jobs, so these skills are extremely useful!"
Complete as many challenges as you can in CyberStart and you may qualify for scholarship opportunities offered by the National Cyber Scholarship Foundation! Build a portfolio of skills, badges and certifications recognized and desired by employers so you can secure your dream role.
Kiran, North Carolina
"I was a Semifinalist in my freshman year, a Finalist in my sophomore year, and now a Scholar. It has been a great journey where I developed a strong passion for data security and learned valuable skills. Thanks to CyberStart I feel so confident about pursuing higher education and a career in the field of cybersecurity."
03 | What are the key dates and achievements?
Registration for 2023 opens:
Oct 16 2023
Registration and gameplay closes:
Jan 11 2024
Semifinalists invited to apply for scholarships:
Jan 12 2024
Scholarship application deadline:
Jan 30 2024
CSA Bronze Badge
You must be registered to the CSA program and gain at least 3000 points in CyberStart to earn this award.
CSA Silver Badge
You must gain at least 50,000 points in CyberStart to earn this award.
CSA Gold Badge
You must gain at least 100,000 points in CyberStart to earn this award.
National Cyber Scholarship Awards
Top-scoring eligible players will be invited to apply for cyber training scholarships worth $3000.
If you require any help or further information send us an email and we'll be happy to help.
Can't find what you are looking for? We may have the answers to some of your questions over in our knowledge base.
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