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 .

((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.