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Cyber Challenge.

Cyber Challenge

Cyber Challenge is the Swedish Defence Universitys cybersecurity competition for students. The aim is to engage students in security policy and emergency preparedness-related information- and cybersecurity incidents on a national level.

The competition takes a broader approach than traditional cybersecurity contests by focusing on policy-related issues, making it accessible even to those without a technical background.

About the Competition

The competition involves analyzing a fictional scenario centered around a changed security policy landscape in our region. Teams are given tasks to solve by developing policy responses, which naturally include elements such as risk and incident management, strategic communication, policy development, and impact analysis.

The competition is conducted entirely in English and will be assessed by experts in cybersecurity and policy.

The three teams that receive the highest evaluations will be recognized on the Swedish Defence University’s website and by the National Cybersecurity Centre.

Who is the competition for?

The competition is intended for those studying at an institution of higher education. Students apply in teams of four (4) and may receive support from a coach affiliated with their institution (optional but recommended). To maximize the team’s success, students are encouraged to form cross-disciplinary teams spanning different departments or academic programs. However, students from different universities may not form teams together — each team must consist of students from the same institution.

Competition format

Participants will face a fictional cyber crisis scenario and work on both written and oral assignments. The competing teams will receive clear instructions, but below is a summary of the competition’s three components.

  1. REPORT – Qualifying Round
  • 4 December 2025: Teams receive the first intelligence report.
  • 8 January 2026 (by 15:00 CET): Submission of a 500-word policy brief including four policy options and one recommended course of action.
  • 5 February 2026: Oral presentation (10 minutes + 10 minutes Q&A) and submission of a decision document.

2. RESPOND – Semifinal

  • Teams advancing to the semifinal will receive an updated intelligence report.
  • Short preparation time to develop new policy recommendations.
  • Oral presentation (10 minutes + 10 minutes Q&A) and submission of a new decision document.

3. REACT – Final

  • A final intelligence report is provided to teams participating in the final round.
  • Teams prepare and deliver a concluding oral briefing (10 minutes + 10 minutes Q&A).
  • No decision document is required.

Time Commitment and Engagement

  • Preparation: Teams work on their policy brief over the course of approximately one month.
  • Competition Day: Full-day event (08:30–17:00) including presentations, rapid analysis, and networking opportunities.
  • Quick Response: The semifinal and final require fast decision-making based on updated scenarios.

Registration

Registration for Cyber Challenge 2026 is open. Sign up via the link below no later than 10 November. Selection is based on a "first come, first served" principle, with an emphasis on diversity in academic backgrounds.

Registration- Cyber Challenge

Practical Information

When? 5 February 2026, from 09:00 to 17:00. Registration takes place between 08:00 and 09:00.

Where? Swedish Defence University, Drottning Kristinas väg 37, 114 28 Stockholm

You are warmly welcome to contact cyber.challenge@fhs.se with any questions.

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