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Scholarships Frequently Asked Questions

Read these carefully to find clarification on your eligibility, rules, deadlines, and more. Be sure to read each scholarship's description carefully to find the most relevant requirements and timeline. If you cannot find an answer to your question, please email us at foundation@isaca.org.


Application Process

1. Are there any scholarship applications open right now? 

Our scholarships typically run every year in two cycles: Cycle 1 applications open in March and close in May, Cycle 2 applications open in September and close in October. If you are currently enrolled in an accredited degree program in the digital trust space, you are likely eligible for some of our scholarships.The next cycle of scholarships will open on September 2, 2025. Please click on this link to find the timeline and requirements.

2. When are the applications due? Can I get an extension or submit a late application? 

The next scholarship cycle (Cycle 2) opens on September 2 and closes on October 14, 2025. We do NOT accept late submissions under any circumstances. Please make sure to submit your application on time. Please click on this link to review the timeline.

3. Is there an application fee? 

No, all of our scholarships are free to apply for! There is no payment required at any point in the application process. 

4. Can I apply for multiple scholarships? 

Yes! You can submit separate applications for as many scholarships as you wish during one cycle. You may be awarded multiple scholarships – receiving one scholarship does not disqualify you from being considered for or awarded a different scholarship. 

5. I applied in the previous cycle. Can I apply again? 

Yes! You can apply for the same or different scholarships as many times as you wish, as long as you remain eligible. If you were selected as a scholarship recipient, you generally may apply again. Some scholarships, however, may have restrictions. Please review each scholarship description carefully. 

6. I did not receive the scholarship. Could you please share why? 

Due to the vast number of applications, unfortunately, we cannot share the reasoning behind the judges' decisions. Each application is evaluated blindly by multiple ISACA volunteer judges from around the world to ensure an unbiased evaluation. The ISACA Foundation team does not partake in judging and cannot provide any commentary. 


 

Eligibility

7. Am I eligible? Can I apply for a scholarship?

Each scholarship has its own eligibility criteria. Please read each scholarship description carefully. Currently, all scholarships require that you are accepted into or enrolled in a school program (ex. accredited college, university, or technical training institute) at the time of application to be eligible for an award. 

8. Are there any scholarships available for non-U.S. citizens? 

Yes! Every scholarship has its own criteria (usually based on location, school, or degree). However, most scholarships (including US-based ones) are open to international students. While some of our scholarships are country-specific, some scholarships (such as Digital Trust Scholarship and ISACA Cybersecurity Month Scholarship) accept applications from any country in the world. 

9. I’m a part-time student. Can I apply? 

Yes, as long as you are accepted into or enrolled in a school program (ex. accredited college, university, or technical training institute) at the time of application. 

10. I’m a high school student. Can I apply? 

Some scholarships are open to high school students. However, most are aimed at undergraduate and graduate college students. Please read each scholarship description carefully for eligibility details. 


 

Application Materials

11. Do I have to complete my application in English? 

No, you can submit an application in your preferred language. 

12. The application requires proof of enrollment. What can I submit? 

A recent receipt, letter of enrollment, or class registration schedule are some acceptable examples. If you are unsure, we suggest reaching out to your university to inquire about the documentation they may provide as proof of enrollment. Note that you do not have to submit an official transcript or official document - screenshots are acceptable.  

13. When is the letter of recommendation due? Who can I select to write my letter of recommendation? 

For the upcoming Cycle 2, recommendation letters are due October 28, 2025. When choosing a recommender, use your best judgement to evaluate who will be able to speak to your abilities and ambitions the best. That can be your professor, an academic advisor, your employer, co-worker, a volunteer manager, or mentor, to name a few examples.

14. Do you have any tips for writing a strong application? 

Put genuine time and effort into your answers, do not provide one-word or short answers. Do not write the answers at the last minute, unless necessary. If you use AI to help with writing, edit and personalize the outputs afterwards. Lastly, do not be shy to share the steps you have taken to grow or to help others grow – every story is unique and that is what is going to make you stand out!

15. Can I use AI in my application? 

Yes, however, we strongly encourage you to avoid simple copy-pasting of AI outputs. Such answers tend to blend in among other applications and do not convey your true unique strengths. If you do opt to use AI, we highly recommend that you edit the text to keep it “your own”. Your personality is what will help you win! 

16. Do you offer any scholarships for CISA or other ISACA certifications? 

No, our scholarships are aimed at students to help them with the financial costs of formal education.