Top 10 Ethical Hacking Training Institutes in the World

Introduction

Do you want to become an ethical hacker but don’t know where to start? Picture this: you’re an enthusiastic student in India, scrolling through countless tech blogs, dreaming of mastering cyber defense and traveling abroad to study in world-class institutions. Yet, there’s confusion everywhere—so many courses, different fee structures, scholarships, and an avalanche of information that leaves you overwhelmed. Take a deep breath, because this guide aims to clear that fog and set you on a smooth path toward your aspirations.

By reading further, you’ll learn where to find some of the best ethical hacking training institutes across the globe, how to get an ethical hacking certification, and the structure of various ethical hacking training courses. Each institute we’ll discuss has something unique, from scholarship options to innovative learning methods. You’ll also explore ethical hacking training modules that go step by step—from the basics of information gathering to the complexities of cloud security.

Top 10 Ethical Hacking Training Institutes in the World

Are you wondering if scholarships or discounts can help you manage study expenses in these institutes?

Many dream of traveling abroad to learn from the world’s ethical hacking training institutes, but worry about financial hurdles. Most global training institutions provide financial assistance through scholarships, partnership programs, and need-based support. Let’s explore ten fantastic places that offer ethical hacking training on a global scale.

1. EC-Council (USA) – A Global Leader in Ethical Hacking Training

Are you concerned about balancing both theory and hands-on practice during your learning? 

• The most popular course at this institution is the Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification.
• The training at this institution takes place through online platforms and maintains physical locations across several nations.

Scholarships:

• EC-Council Foundation Scholarship Program
• Women in Cybersecurity Scholarships
• University partnerships that provide discounts

Why Choose EC-Council?

EC-Council stands out among ethical hacking training institutes for its industry-renowned ethical hacking certification called CEH. The CEH certification provides instruction on network scanning, system attacks, malware detection, and numerous other topics. As one of the pioneers in ethical hacking training, the institute also provides extensive support to help learners acquire both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

2. Offensive Security (OffSec, USA) – Advanced Ethical Hacking Training

Are you worried that you might need previous hacking knowledge before jumping in? 

• Popular Course: OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional)
• Students can choose from either self-paced online learning or live instruction modes for their training courses at this institution.

Scholarships:

• OffSec Scholarship for Women
• OffSec Training Fund (occasional need-based discounts)
• Collaborations with nonprofits for free or subsidized seats

Why Choose Offensive Security?

Offensive Security is among the top ethical hacking training institutes for advanced learners. The OSCP examination at Offensive Security comprises practical hacking labs that span 24 consecutive hours. This rigor makes the OSCP a highly respected ethical hacking certification, demonstrating to employers that you can effectively handle real-world cyber threats.

3. SANS Institute (USA) – Comprehensive Ethical Hacking Training

Are you unsure whether your existing tech background is enough for these in-depth courses? 

• Popular Courses: GIAC Certifications (GPEN, GSEC, GCIH)
• Mode: Live online, in-person events, On-Demand modules

Scholarships:

• SANS CyberTalent Immersion Academy
• Cyber Diversity Academy
• SANS Women’s Immersion Academy
• The institute provides complete funding to students who receive GIAC exam vouchers among various funding options.

Why Choose SANS Institute?

SANS stands out for its top-notch instructors and extensive range of ethical hacking training courses, covering nearly every cybersecurity niche. SANS stands as the best choice for candidates seeking intensive, profound learning opportunities, particularly those with existing IT knowledge. GIAC is a globally recognized certification administered by SANS Institute.

4. Hack The Box Academy (UK) – Immersive Ethical Hacking Training

Worried about not having face-to-face instruction and needing something truly hands-on?

• Popular Content: Red team, blue team, and Capture the Flag (CTF)-style labs
• Mode: Online, interactive labs

Scholarships:

• Occasional CTF scholarships
• The company offers free licenses for its services during worldwide cyber emergencies.
• University partnerships for subsidized access

Why Choose Hack the Box Academy?

Practical learning at Hack the Box has reached a new standard with its gaming approach to labs, presenting students with authentic hacking challenges. This approach to ethical hacking training ensures you learn while actually attacking and defending simulated systems. To learn hacking skills through this system, you gain a flexible and exciting experience.

5. Try Hack Me (UK) – Beginner-Friendly Ethical Hacking Training

Do you think ethical hacking is too complicated for beginners with minimal experience?

• Popular Features: Tracks for every level (beginner to advanced), interactive virtual machines
• Mode: Online, self-paced

Scholarships:

• Occasional scholarships for events like Cyber Awareness Month
• Partnerships with institutions and NGOs for discounted/free access

Why Choose Try HackMe?

Try HackMe’s bite-sized lessons and guided labs make it one of the easiest ways to dip your toe into ethical hacking training courses. The platform enables new users to progress from basic machine scans to more advanced hacking purposes.

6. InfoSec Institute (USA) – Robust Ethical Hacking Training

Are you worried that you can’t travel abroad and need both online and in-person options?

• Popular Courses: CEH, PenTest+, CISSP bootcamps
• Mode: Online and classroom-based learning

Scholarships:

• Cybersecurity Scholarship Program
• Full bootcamp access and exam vouchers
• Preferential support for underrepresented groups

Why Choose InfoSec Institute?

Students who need to manage multiple responsibilities can choose from flexible InfoSec Institute programs that offer either classroom-based or online learning options. Whether you aim for an ethical hacking certification like CEH or something broader like CISSP, InfoSec has you covered.

7. eLearn Security (by INE, USA/Europe) – Progressive Ethical Hacking Training

Anxious about affording lab resources for hands-on practice?

• Popular Courses: eJPT, eCPPT, eWPT
• Mode: Online, self-paced

Scholarships:

• INE Cybersecurity Scholarship
• Covers learning paths, exam vouchers, lab access
• Open to international students annually

Why Choose eLearn Security?

Offering a range of ethical hacking training courses, eLearn Security is recognized for its practical, lab-based approach. The eJPT exam from eLearn Security targets beginners, yet the eCPPT level targets advanced students who wish to analyze pen testing scenarios.

8. Cybrary (USA) – Versatile Ethical Hacking Training

Do you need a subscription-based model that allows you to learn multiple topics on one platform? 

• Popular Courses: CEH, PenTest+, SOC Analyst, CISSP
• Mode: Online, subscription-based

Scholarships:

• Cybrary Talent Development Program
• Occasional scholarships for career changers
• Reduced rates for students

Why Choose Cybrary?

Cybrary hosts a massive library of ethical hacking training lessons, plus other cybersecurity fields. Your subscription to Cybrary offers monthly or yearly pricing, enabling you to pursue beginner security and IT training alongside professional penetration testing instruction.

9. Pentester Lab (Australia) – Web-Focused Ethical Hacking Training

Worried that you might miss out on specialized training in web app hacking? 

• Popular Courses: Web application vulnerabilities, hands-on exploitation scenarios
• Mode: Online, browser-based learning

Scholarships:

• Free Pro access for students with valid academic emails
• Free licenses via diversity initiatives

Why Choose PentesterLab?

PentesterLab functions best for web-based exploitation training because it specializes in preparing professionals in web application security. Their system focuses on practical work that allows you to interact with genuine server code within a secure virtual environment.

Also Read: Study Abroad Without Taking IELTS 2024

10. CISA Training by U.S. Department of Homeland Security – Public Service-Oriented Ethical Hacking Training

Curious if there’s a free, official government source for cybersecurity training?

• Popular Content: National cyber awareness modules, public-sector cybersecurity guidelines
• Mode: Free online training

Scholarships:

• • Completely free access for global learners
  • Targets professionals in critical infrastructure and public service

Why Choose CISA Training?

CISA’s resources suit those interested in the foundational aspects of cybersecurity on a budget of zero. While not a full-fledged ethical hacking training certification, it offers solid basics that can complement more advanced training later.

Read More: How to Become an AI Software Engineer? A Complete Guide

Ethical Hacking Training Courses

Are you wondering if these modules are too technical, or if you can learn step by step regardless of your experience level?

Below are the common modules found in ethical hacking training courses. They are often included in programs like CEH, OSCP, and various others. Each step builds on the previous one, taking you from curious beginner to confident cybersecurity professional.

Introduction to Ethical Hacking

• What You Learn: The essence of hacking, why organizations need defenders, and the difference between malicious and ethical hackers.
• Why It Matters: A solid understanding of the rules ensures you know the boundaries and laws involved.
• Example: Getting familiar with terms like “white hat,” “black hat,” and “gray hat.”

Foot printing and Reconnaissance

• What You Learn: Methods for gathering information about a system, similar to detective work.
• Why It Matters: The more you know, the better you can find security holes.
• Example: Using search engines or social media to uncover potential targets.

Scanning Networks

• What You Learn: Identifying devices and open ports in a network—like checking doors and windows of a house.
• Why It Matters: Open ports are prime entry points for attackers.
• Example: Using tools like Nmap to see if a company database is publicly exposed.

Enumeration

• What You Learn: Digging deeper into a system to extract usernames, shares, and more.
• Why It Matters: Detailed information helps an attacker plan precise attacks.
• Example: Discovering an admin username by sending probing network requests.

System Hacking

• What You Learn: Techniques for breaching systems, capturing passwords, and elevating privileges.
• Why It Matters: Realistic practice helps defenders anticipate and prevent real attacks.
• Example: Using Metasploit to exploit known vulnerabilities.

Malware Threats

• What You Learn: How viruses, worms, trojans, and keyloggers are created and spread.
• Why It Matters: Understanding the nature of malware is key to containing it.
• Example: Studying how an infected attachment can install a hidden keylogger.

Sniffing and Spoofing

• What You Learn: How attackers monitor network traffic or masquerade as trusted devices.
• Why It Matters: Network data can be stolen if not properly encrypted.
• Example: Capturing login credentials over insecure Wi-Fi networks.

Social Engineering

• What You Learn: Hacking human behavior—tricking people rather than machines.
• Why It Matters: Even the best technical defenses fail if someone willingly gives away passwords.
• Example: Impersonating IT support to coax credentials out of staff.

Denial-of-Service (DoS) Attacks

• What You Learn: Overloading a system or network until it can’t respond.
• Why It Matters: DoS can paralyze an organization’s online presence.
• Example: Flooding an e-commerce site with fake requests so real users get blocked out.

Web Application Hacking

• What You Learn: Exploiting weaknesses in online forms, databases, and web servers.
• Why It Matters: Websites are a frequent target for cybercriminals.
• Example: SQL Injection attacks that let hackers modify or read sensitive data.

Wireless Network Hacking

• What You Learn: Finding and cracking insecure Wi-Fi networks.
• Why It Matters: Weak Wi-Fi security leaves entire networks at risk.
• Example: Cracking a poorly secured office Wi-Fi to spy on confidential communication.

Mobile Hacking

• What You Learn: Vulnerabilities in smartphones and how malware can infect mobile apps.
• Why It Matters: With so much personal data on phones, securing mobile platforms is crucial.
• Example: Infecting an Android device through a rogue app downloaded from an unverified source.

Cloud and IoT Hacking

• What You Learn: Attacking cloud platforms (AWS, Google Cloud) and Internet of Things devices (like smart home tech).
• Why It Matters: As technology evolves, hackers shift to new frontiers.
• Example: Hacking into smart security cameras with default credentials.

Cryptography

• What You Learn: Methods of encrypting and decrypting data, along with common weaknesses.
• Why It Matters: Encryption keeps data safe from prying eyes.
• Example: Learning how TLS/SSL secures online transactions and where it can fail.

Hands-on Practice

• Virtual labs to simulate actual hacking scenarios.
• Capture the Flag (CTF) exercises to sharpen problem-solving.
• Simulation of real business environments to mimic genuine cyber threats.

Read More: Masters in Applied Statistics: A Comprehensive Guide to Career Success

Ethical Hacking Certification

Are you curious which certificate could best match your current skill level and career goals?

Below are some of the top ethical hacking certification paths. Each one differs in difficulty, cost, and focus area. Choose wisely based on your background—some are beginner-friendly, others demand serious prior experience.

Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) – EC-Council

• • Level: Beginner to Intermediate
  • What It Teaches: Core ethical hacking training skills such as malware analysis, system hacking, and web application security.
  • Duration: Approximately 40 hours of structured classes.
  • Exam: 125 multiple-choice questions in 4 hours.
  • Why It’s Popular: Recognized worldwide and a common first step for many security roles.
  • Cost: $1,200–$1,500 (training + exam).
  • Good For: Entry-level IT professionals looking to validate cybersecurity expertise.

Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) – OffSec

• • Level: Intermediate to Advanced
  • What It Teaches: Immersive penetration testing, real-world exploitation, and custom scripting.
  • Duration: 30 to 90 days of lab access (recommended).
  • Exam: 24-hour hands-on hacking test.
  • Why It’s Popular: Employers love its tough practical exam, proving you can hack ethically in realistic conditions.
  • Cost: Starts at $1,499 (lab + exam).
  • Good for: Those determined to become full-fledged penetration testers.

GIAC Penetration Tester (GPEN) – SANS Institute

• • Level: Intermediate
  • What It Teaches: Password attacks, scanning, advanced exploitation, and more.
  • Duration: Usually 5-6 days in SANS bootcamps.
  • Exam: 82 multiple-choice questions over 3 hours.
  • Why It’s Popular: Tied to SANS, a top cybersecurity educator globally.
  • Cost: Roughly $2,499.
  • Good For: Individuals seeking high-level security roles in established tech firms.

eLearnSecurity Junior Penetration Tester (eJPT) – INE/eLearnSecurity

• • Level: Beginner
  • What It Teaches: Basic networking, web exploitation, enumeration, and fundamental pen testing.
  • Duration: Self-paced; can be finished in a few weeks if you’re dedicated.
  • Exam: Practical lab-based challenge.
  • Why It’s Popular: An affordable, hands-on stepping stone to advanced certs.
  • Cost: Around $200 (training + exam).
  • Good For: Students or career-switchers with limited hacking background.

CompTIA PenTest+

• • Level: Intermediate
  • What It Teaches: Planning, scoping, exploiting systems, and handling vulnerabilities.
  • Duration: Self-study or 5-day intensive training.
  • Exam: Mix of multiple-choice and performance-based questions.
  • Why It’s Popular: Vendor-neutral and often required for certain government roles.
  • Cost: About $392 for the exam alone.
  • Good For: IT pros wanting broader, certification-backed pen testing knowledge.

Certified Red Team Professional (CRTP) – Pentester Academy

• • Level: Advanced
  • What It Teaches: Attacks on Active Directory, privilege escalation, and lateral movement.
  • Duration: Self-paced with 30+ days of lab access.
  • Exam: 24-hour practical hacking test.
  • Cost: Roughly $500 (labs + exam).
  • Good For: Pen testers seeking specialized red-team skills.

Read More: Ethical Hacking Course: Duration, Fees, and Institutes

Ethical Hacking Training Institutes Fees and Eligibility Criteria

Concerned about meeting certain prerequisites or the total cost of these programs?

This overview highlights the fees, formats, and admission requirements of well-known ethical hacking training institutes so you can plan accordingly.

EC-Council (Certified Ethical Hacker – CEH)

• • Location: USA (Global presence)
  • Course Fee:
    • Self-paced: ~$1,199
    • Instructor-led: $2,000–$3,500
    • Exam Voucher: ~$1,199
  • Eligibility:
    • At least 2 years of IT security experience
    • Or completion of official EC-Council training

Offensive Security (OSCP)

• • Location: USA (Online)
  • Course Fee:
    • PWK (Penetration Testing with Kali) + labs + exam: from $1,499 (30 days lab)
  • Eligibility:
    • No formal degree required
    • Basic Linux, scripting, and networking knowledge recommended
    • Minimum age of 18

SANS Institute (GIAC – GPEN, GCIH, etc.)

• • Location: USA (Global delivery)
  • Course Fee:
    • $6,000 – $7,500 for course + GIAC exam
  • Eligibility:
    • IT or security background beneficial
    • Open to students, professionals, and government staff
    • Work/Study program for discounts

eLearnSecurity (INE) – eJPT, eCPPT, eWPT

• • Location: USA/Europe (Online)
  • Course Fee:
    • eJPT: ~$200
    • eCPPT: $400–$600
  • Eligibility:
    • No strict academic requirement
    • Familiarity with networking, Linux, and web basics is helpful

TryHackMe (UK)

• • Location: UK (Online)
  • Course Fee:
    • Free tier available
    • Premium: ~$10/month or ~$90/year
  • Eligibility:
    • Suitable for all skill levels
    • No prerequisites required

Hack The Box Academy (UK)

• • Location: UK (Online)
  • Course Fee:
    • Basic: ~$12/month
    • Annual: ~$120/year
    • VIP+ Labs: Additional charges per module
  • Eligibility:
    • Open to anyone interested in security
    • Some modules need foundational knowledge

InfoSec Institute (USA)

• • Location: USA (Online and in-person)
  • Course Fee:
    • CEH Bootcamp: $3,000–$5,000
  • Eligibility:
    • Usually requires some IT experience
    • Accepts career-changers with a tech background

Cybrary (USA)

• • Location: USA (Online)
  • Course Fee:
    • Basic content: Free
    • Premium: ~$29/month
  • Eligibility:
    • No formal requirements
    • Ideal for continuous skill-building

PentesterLab (Australia)

• • Location: Australia (Online)
  • Course Fee:
    • Free version
    • Pro Plan: ~$20/month
  • Eligibility:
    • No formal constraints
    • Focus on web and app security

CISA (Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency – USA)

• Location: USA (Government-led, Online)
• Course Fee:
  • Free
• Eligibility:
  • Open to global students and professionals
  • Ideal for aspiring cybersecurity personnel

Read More: MSc Cyber Security Abroad: Discover Top Universities

Ivy League Universities Offering Ethical Hacking Courses

Worried about meeting strict language requirements or navigating the admissions process in top universities?

Several Ivy League schools integrate ethical hacking training into broader cybersecurity or computer science programs. Below are details on programs, English proficiency tests, and what each school covers.

Harvard University

• • Program:
    • Cybersecurity: Managing Risk in the Information Age (Extension School)
    • Graduate certificates in cybersecurity and risk management
  • Ethical Hacking Content:
    • Pen testing fundamentals, system security, and ethical frameworks
  • English Proficiency Tests:
    • TOEFL iBT: Min 100
    • IELTS Academic: Min 7.0

Columbia University

• • Program:
    • MS in Computer Science (Network & Computer Security track)
    • Cybersecurity Bootcamp (Columbia Engineering)
  • Ethical Hacking Content:
    • Ethical hacking, malware analysis, secure coding, digital forensics
  • English Proficiency Tests:
    • TOEFL iBT: Min 100
    • IELTS Academic: Min 7.5
    • Duolingo: Min 120

University of Pennsylvania (UPenn)

• • Program:
    • MS in Engineering in Networked & Social Systems
    • UPenn LPS Cybersecurity Bootcamp
  • Ethical Hacking Content:
    • System vulnerabilities, network security, pen testing strategies
  • English Proficiency Tests:
    • TOEFL iBT: Min 100 (Recommended 104+)
    • IELTS Academic: Min 7.5

Cornell University

• • Program:
    • MEng in Computer Science (Cybersecurity Track)
    • Cybersecurity Certificate (eCornell)
  • Ethical Hacking Content:
    • System security labs, penetration testing, ethical hacking guidelines
  • English Proficiency Tests:
    • TOEFL iBT: Min 100
    • IELTS Academic: Min 7.5

Yale University

• • Program:
    • BS/MS in Computer Science with cybersecurity electives
    • Modules on privacy, cryptography, and secure systems
  • Ethical Hacking Content:
    • Research-focused approach to network penetration, vulnerabilities
  • English Proficiency Tests:
    • TOEFL iBT: Min 100
    • IELTS Academic: Min 7.0

Brown University

• • Program:
    • ScM in Cybersecurity
    • Topics in applied cryptography, secure coding, system exploitation
  • Ethical Hacking Content:
    • Vulnerability scanning, advanced pen testing techniques
  • English Proficiency Tests:
    • TOEFL iBT: Min 100
    • IELTS Academic: Min 7.0

Dartmouth College

• • Program:
    • MS/PhD in Computer Science (Security & Privacy focus)
    • Institute for Security, Technology, and Society (ISTS)
  • Ethical Hacking Content:
    • Research on ethical hacking methods, frameworks, and policy
  • English Proficiency Tests:
    • TOEFL iBT: Min 100
    • IELTS Academic: Min 7.0

Princeton University

• • Program:
    • Undergrad/Grad CS with security electives
    • Courses in information security, cryptography, network defenses
  • Ethical Hacking Content:
    • Theoretical and hands-on modules for ethical hacking
  • English Proficiency Tests:
    • TOEFL iBT: Min 100
    • IELTS Academic: Min 7.0

Also Read: Top Courses to Study in the UK – Check Complete List Here

Career Opportunities After This Course

Do you wonder if your career options go beyond just “hacker” roles?

Completing ethical hacking training can open doors in various industries. Many organizations—from banks to healthcare providers—hire cybersecurity experts. Here are some job roles to consider:

• Penetration Tester (Pen Tester): Perform authorized hacks to uncover security gaps.
• Security Analyst: Monitor networks, analyze threats, and enforce security protocols.
• Security Consultant: Offer expert advice to companies about best practices and risk mitigation.
• Incident Responder: Jump into action during a security breach to limit damage and investigate the root cause.
• Vulnerability Researcher: Identify new flaws in systems or software, often working in specialized labs.
• Cybersecurity Manager: Lead a team of security professionals, plan strategic defenses, and handle compliance.
• Bug Bounty Hunter: Work independently, finding and reporting vulnerabilities to organizations for rewards.

Read More: Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships: 2025 application

What AI Courses to Pursue to Excel in Your Ethical Hacking Training

Are you curious how Artificial Intelligence can supercharge your cybersecurity skill set?

AI-powered tools are transforming how attacks happen and how defenses are built. To keep pace, consider supplementing your ethical hacking training with AI-focused knowledge:

• Machine Learning Basics
  • Understand how algorithms detect unusual patterns or malicious activity in network traffic.
• Deep Learning for Cybersecurity
  • Use neural networks to spot advanced threats, zero-day exploits, and suspicious user behavior.
• Data Science with Python
  • Automate data analysis to identify potential vulnerabilities more quickly than manual scanning.
• Reinforcement Learning
  • Build automated security tools that adapt in real-time to evolving threats.
• AI in Threat Intelligence
  • Collect data from global threat feeds and use AI to predict which new exploits may emerge.

Read More: Study Artificial Intelligence in Top Universities

Conclusion

Wondering how to combine everything you’ve learned into a powerful plan for success?

Imagine exploring online labs late at night, battling simulated threats, and uncovering vulnerabilities that test your wits. Then, visualize traveling abroad or enrolling in top-tier Ivy League programs that polish your knowledge further. This is the exciting journey awaiting those who delve into ethical hacking training.

From the rich array of ethical hacking training institutes and comprehensive ethical hacking training courses, to powerful ethical hacking certification options and AI-driven skill boosters—there’s a path tailored for everyone. With multiple scholarships and flexible study modes, a dream that once felt distant becomes surprisingly reachable. If you’ve ever been fascinated by the digital battlefield, now is your chance to jump in, learn, and lead the charge in protecting the cyber world. Let the story of your success begin with the right choice of training and a heart full of determination. Good luck on your ethical hacking journey!

For further assistance or queries students can contact us, study abroad consultancy, and avail of our wide range of services for students on destinations like Study in USA, study in UK, study in Singapore , study in Switzerland , study in Australia, study in New-Zealand and many other countries.

Top FAQs

1. Is ethical hacking training only for people with a technical background?

Not necessarily. While a basic understanding of computers, networks, and programming is helpful, many beginners have succeeded by starting with fundamental ethical hacking training courses designed for newcomers.

2. Will an ethical hacking certification guarantee me a job?

A certification by itself doesn’t guarantee employment, but it’s often a big plus in the eyes of recruiters. Pair it with hands-on skills and continuous practice for the best results.

3. Are there scholarships for Indian students to study in these ethical hacking training institutes?

Yes, many institutes offer special scholarships or discounts. Some have dedicated funds for women, diversity programs, or need-based assistance. It’s worth checking each institute’s official website or contacting them directly.

4. How long does it take to complete an ethical hacking training program?

It varies. Bootcamp-style ethical hacking training courses can last a few weeks, while advanced certifications like OSCP might require several months of dedicated lab work.

5. Which language tests are needed for Ivy League admissions in cybersecurity?

Commonly TOEFL (minimum 100 iBT) or IELTS Academic (minimum 7.0 to 7.5). Some universities also accept Duolingo English Test scores, though requirements differ by program.