§ 7904. Preferences in awarding financial assistance

In awarding financial assistance under this chapter, the Secretary shall give a preference to qualified individuals who are otherwise eligible to receive the financial assistance in the following order of priority:

• (1) Veterans with service-connected disabilities.
• (2) Veterans.
• (3) Persons described in section 4215(a)(1)(B) of this title .
• (4) Individuals who received or are pursuing degrees at institutions designated by the National Security Agency as Centers of Academic Excellence in Cyber Education.
• (5) Citizens of the United States.