CyberStart Canada: Free Cybersecurity Program for Youth
Unlock a passion in cybersecurity
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What is CyberStart Canada?
CyberStart Canada is a free, immersive, gamified learning experience that helps students develop cybersecurity skills while having fun. Supported by RBC and in collaboration with TryHackMe, CyberStart Canada allows young Canadians to dive into the world of cybersecurity through hands-on labs, challenges, and puzzles.
You’ll gain confidence, practical experience, and the skills to impress higher education institutions and future employers. Whether you’re hacking machines, investigating attacks, or solving complex puzzles, CyberStart Canada will ignite your passion for cybersecurity.
Test your problem-solving skills and explore a new passion for cybersecurity.
Enjoy fun, interactive labs and objective-based challenges designed to engage and inspire.
Complete tasks, earn badges, and receive certificates of achievement to showcase your skills to colleges, universities, or future employers.
Eligibility
To participate in CyberStart Canada, you must meet the following criteria:
Age Requirement: Open to Ages 16-24
CyberStart Canada is designed for individuals between the ages of 16 and 24, giving young talent the chance to dive into the exciting world of cybersecurity and develop key skills for the future.
School Enrollment: Active Student Status
To be eligible, participants must be enrolled in a Canadian high school or post-secondary institution. Whether you're a high school student or continuing your education, this program is designed to complement your academic journey with hands-on cybersecurity learning.
Free CyberStart Canada Microcredential Course
The CyberStart Canada Microcredential Course is a free, beginner-friendly course designed to help you explore cybersecurity and learn how to stay safe online. Whether you’re thinking about a future in tech or want to understand how to keep yourself, your work, and your community safe online, this course is a great place to begin.
Through two short modules, you’ll build essential knowledge on:
- How to recognize online risks to protect yourself, your personal information, and others
- Cybersecurity fundamentals — key cybersecurity concepts and how cyber threats operate
No prior experience is required.
The CyberStart Canada Microcredential Course is your starting point for building digital confidence and understanding the role cybersecurity plays in your life and community.
Start building your cyber knowledge today.
Credentials & Recognition
Participants who successfully complete the CyberStart Canada Microcredential Course will receive an official Catalyst digital badge through Credly, recognizing their successful completion and demonstrated competencies. The credential can be shared on LinkedIn, resumes, email signatures, and professional portfolios to showcase skills and accomplishments to employers and professional networks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are applications open for CyberStart Canada?
Applications for the 2025/2026 intake are now closed as we have reached capacity for this intake. If you’re interested in participating in a future cohort, please register your interest to be notified when applications reopen.
Who is eligible to participate in CyberStart Canada?
CyberStart Canada is open to students aged 16 to 24 who are currently enrolled in a Canadian high school or post-secondary institution. Participants must meet both the age requirement and active student status to be eligible for the program.
Do I need prior cybersecurity experience to join?
No prior cybersecurity or technical experience is required. CyberStart Canada is designed for beginners and provides guided learning through practical exercises that introduce core cybersecurity concepts and online safety skills.
How long does it take to complete the Microcredential Course?
The CyberStart Canada Microcredential Course consists of two short, self-paced modules that can be completed online. Participants can progress through the material at their own pace.
What happens after I complete the program?
Upon successful completion of the microcredential course, participants will earn a digital badge that can be added to their resumé or LinkedIn profile. This microcredential demonstrates foundational cybersecurity knowledge to post-secondary institutions and future employers.
How is CyberStart Canada different from traditional online courses?
CyberStart Canada uses gamified learning experiences such as puzzles, investigations, and simulated cyber challenges to help participants actively apply what they learn. This hands-on approach allows students to build confidence and practical skills by solving problems similar to those faced by cybersecurity professionals.
Can CyberStart Canada help me pursue a career in cybersecurity?
CyberStart Canada helps students explore potential career pathways in cybersecurity by introducing industry-relevant skills and concepts. The program is designed to build digital confidence and support participants who are considering further education or training in technology and cybersecurity fields.
Is there a cost to participate in CyberStart Canada?
CyberStart Canada is offered at no cost to eligible participants, making cybersecurity education more accessible to students across Canada.
Looking for more information?
For any questions or accessibility accommodations, please email: cyberstart@cybersecurecatalyst.ca