CyberFirst University Bursary (GCHQ)
GCHQ (CyberFirst)
The CyberFirst University Bursary supports students with financial and placement support while they complete a university degree. Successful candidates can receive up to £24,000 in total (generally £4,000 per year plus up to £2,000 per summer placement) and access 8-week paid summer placements with GCHQ or more than 100 industry partners across the UK.
During the bursary you’ll gain hands-on experience in areas such as digital forensics, coding, communications, data, governance and strategy. Placements may be technical or non-technical and can be office-based, remote or a hybrid mix.
Participants may also be invited to attend the CyberFirst Academy in the first year depending on experience and assessment.
The scheme aims to build skills, networks and real-world experience to help you launch a career in cyber or tech. The bursary is open to students starting university in September 2026 or current undergraduates with at least two years remaining; applicants must meet the published academic and citizenship eligibility criteria.
17 Nov 2025
01 Sept 2026
September 2026 intake
Location
- You must be applying for university to start in September 2026 OR have at least 2 full years of study remaining (excluding industry year) from September 2026.
- Achieved, or predicted to achieve, BBB at A Level in any subject (or equivalent to at least 120 UCAS points).
- If already on a degree course, you must be on track for at least a 2:1 equivalent at the end of your degree.
- You must be a British citizen or will be by the end of August 2026.
- You must be genuinely interested in a career in tech or cyber security.
- The bursary is open regardless of financial situation or degree subject.
£24,000 total
Up to £24,000 in total (typically £4,000 per year of study plus up to £2,000 per summer placement). Summer placements are 8 weeks and receive at least £2,000 per placement. Discretionary living expenses may be offered during placements.
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