This is a
CyberFirst
World
Let’s open it up
We live in a digital age. Technology powers everything from phones and laptops to hospitals, airports and banks. To defend the UK, we need to defend that digital world – so the UK government are training young people like you to become future cyber security specialists.
Cyber security might sound like a secretive sector. But the truth is, we’re a diverse network of supportive people – both tech and non-tech roles – united by our mission to keep the UK safe and protect the world we love. And with our university bursaries and degree apprenticeships, you can join us.
Applications for our bursaries and apprenticeships are now closed, but you can still use this page to prepare for next year’s applications, and of course, keep checking back so that you’re ready when we open for 2021/22. You can even follow us on Instagram and Twitter for the latest updates.
Who are CyberFirst?
Some of our industry members
The university bursary
Applying to study a degree in 2021? Or already at university, with at least two years of full-time study left to go in September 2021? Put your studies to good use on our university bursary programme.
Please note: applications for our university bursaries have now closed. We’ll be re-opening the scheme next year, so keep an eye on this page for updates.
The bursary scheme opens a lot of doors, and it’s made applying for graduate jobs so much easier. The hands-on experience and support is invaluable.”
Aliya, Bursary student
It’s been so nice joining a community of experts who treat all us students as equals – and, of course, the £4,000 bursary has been beyond helpful.”
Ethan, Bursary student
The degree apprenticeship
About to leave school and wondering what to do next? On the CyberFirst degree apprenticeship, it isn’t about choosing between university and work. With us, you’ll have both: you’ll get a paying job with a prestigious organisation and you’ll earn your degree for free too.
Please note: applications for the degree apprenticeship have now closed. We’ll be reopening the scheme next year, so keep an eye on this page for updates.
As a CyberFirst Degree Apprentice, there are loads of opportunities to learn and everyone wants to see you succeed.”
Daniel, Degree Apprentice
I didn’t really know what to expect beforehand, but we’ve been integrated so well within the business. I feel really valued as an apprentice, everyone’s been so supportive.”
Isabelle, Degree Apprentice
Podcasts
Cyber security can seem closed off – but our podcasts give you an inside view. With professionals from the NCSC and industry member Marie Curie, as well as some of our bursary students and a former apprentice, they’re essential listening for beginners in our industry.
Episode 1: Tackling tricky tech terms
Episode 2: Surprising roles in cyber security
Episode 3: Opening up our opportunities
Episode 4: How cyber security supports our world
Get to know our world
Let’s bust some myths
You have to be a coder to apply.
False! We ask for an aptitude for tech and the will to learn, but you don’t have to know how to code yet. If you’re a beginner, why not start with the NCSC’s cyber glossary?
Only hackers work in cyber security.
False! From project managers to legal experts to technical writers, cyber security is home to all kinds of vital non-technical roles.
Cyber security is essential to day‑to‑day life in the UK.
True! Whether it’s protecting flight paths, securing bank accounts, or preventing power outages, cyber security protects every aspect of modern life.
Cyber security is a recent fad; not a stable career path.
False! The more we rely on tech, the more we need cyber security. That means it’s a forever growing sector – with an increasing skills shortage. You’ll always be in high demand.
Cyber security is a diverse industry.
True! We’re an inclusive network of employers for people of all ethnic and cultural backgrounds and for people of all gender identities. You’ll find room to be yourself here.
My soft skills will matter in cyber security.
True! Your soft skills will be vital here. If you can take a tricky concept and make it simple, or talk easily to all kinds of people, you’ll do well.
I could work with all kinds of businesses through CyberFirst.
True! We’re a government scheme but with plenty of industry members – from Deloitte to BT; HMRC to the Bank of England – so you’re starting a career with huge potential.
It’s difficult to apply for CyberFirst.
False! Because we’re a government scheme, there are a few more steps – like security clearance – but we’ll support you and make it a straightforward process.
I can apply for both the bursary and the apprenticeship.
True! As long as you meet the eligibility for both schemes, you can apply for either or both. Of course, if you gain a place on both, you’ll need to choose one!
How to apply
As long as you’re eligible, you can apply for either or both schemes, , and you’ll start with the application form. This is where we’ll ask you to provide information that confirms your identity, nationality, where you live, your age, academic qualifications and expected grades. It’s also your opportunity to say more about you in your own words. It takes a bit of time to complete but you can save the information and come back to complete it.
We’re proud to say that we’re a Disability Confident employer, which means we’re committed to ensuring a fair and proportionate number of disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria will be offered an interview. You can also request reasonable adjustments. Please let us know if that applies to you.
Once you’ve successfully completed the application form and met all the eligibility criteria, you’ll be invited to take part in an online assessment. It sounds daunting but previous applicants have really enjoyed this part of the application process. The assessment is looking to test your aptitude alongside what you already know. We’re also looking at how committed you are to finding out information to solve problems. Our top tip is to try these practice exercises. You’ll need to create an account first, read the instructions carefully and take your time to work through the challenges.
Normally, this will take place either in Gloucester or Scarborough and usually lasts half a day. Dependent on the COVID-19 situation though, you might be invited to a virtual assessment centre. Either way, you’ll have a personal interview and a number of short assessments. We try and make it as relaxed as possible so we get to see the real you and all that you have to offer. Good luck!
If you do well in your assessment, we’ll give you a conditional offer, meaning you’ll join us if you pass security clearance.
You’ll find more on why we need vetting in the next section, but for now, please note that bursary students will only need Security Check vetting (point 6) while apprentices, who’ll be based on site at GCHQ, will need Developed Vetting (points 6-8).
Vetting helps us check we can trust you with sensitive data. The questionnaire will explore your character and your personal circumstances.
For roles that need higher security clearance, we’ll check your records to make sure you’re eligible to work in a secure organisation.
For roles that need higher security clearance, you’ll have an in-depth vetting interview, answering personal questions around all aspects of your life.
Congratulations! If you’ve passed security clearance, and you have achieved the required grades, we’ll confirm your offer and your start date. Please note that the process of vetting can take up to nine months.
Vetting: The Key Facts
Vetting: The Key Facts
Our work involves national security, so in your role, you may have access to sensitive government information. Our primary responsibility in vetting is to protect that information and make sure our people are safe. We’re checking you can be trusted and have integrity, but we’re protecting you too.
Because you’re joining a field that deals with national security, we have to check your character. We want to make sure that you’re honest, responsible and trustworthy, and that there’s nothing that would, for example, make you vulnerable to blackmail or coercion.
We encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, so our vetting process supports diverse candidates of all ages, cultures, gender identities and sexual orientations.
Some roles with us will require an interview, and the questions can get quite personal – but just be honest. The interviewers aren’t looking to trip you up or embarrass you; they’re making sure you’re right for the responsibility.
Ready to enter the CyberFirst world?
