Cyber Competitions
Cyber competitions are more than just challenges, they are hands-on opportunities for students to put their knowledge to the test, solve real-world problems, and gain the kind of experience employers are looking for.
The CAE Cyber Competitions Atlas serves as a central hub for competitions across the country, connecting students to events that range from Capture-the-Flag challenges and penetration testing, to policy analysis and digital forensics. Whether you’re a beginner exploring your first challenge or an advanced researcher refining your skills, the Atlas helps you find the right competition to match your level and interests.
Opportunities for Students
Build Career-Ready Skills: Competitions simulate real-world scenarios in cybersecurity and AI, strengthening critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork.
Boost Your Resume: Employers in government, industry, and research value students with competition experience, seeing it as proof of both technical and leadership skills.
Scholarships & Recognition: Many competitions come with awards, scholarships, and national recognition, opening doors to further opportunities.
Accessible Pathways: K–12 students exploring cyber can use competitions as an entry point, while CSUSB students and alumni can continue to compete and grow their skills.
| Competition | Audience | How to get involved |
|---|---|---|
| NCAE Cybergames | Team Based Entry Level | Join the CISO Club! |
| National Cyber League (NCL) | Individual or Team Based Entry Level | Register Here! |
| Collegiate Cyber Defense Competition (CCDC) | Team Based Advanced | Join the CISO Club! |
| NSA Codebreaker | Individual or Team Based Advanced | Join the CISO Club! |
| PicoCTF | Individual or Team Based Entry Level | Register Here! |
Why you should participate in cyber competitions
Cyber competitions inspire collaboration between students, faculty, government, and industry. They not only train the next generation of professionals but also strengthen national security and economic growth by preparing a highly skilled workforce. By participating in competitions students strengthen their role as a leader in cybersecurity and AI education, ensuring students graduate not only with degrees, but with nationally competitive skills. At CSUSB, competitions aren’t just extracurricular — they are central to how the CyAI department prepares students to lead in cybersecurity and AI.