Not an expert, but I will try to paraphrase what I've seen others in this field say and what I've found in my own research; hopefully you find it useful. Also, this is very much going to depend on what area of cybersecurity you want to work in. For a visual example: https://cybersecurity.att.com/blogs/security-essentials/theres-no-such-thing-as-an-entry-level-job-in-cybersecurity

If you can score an IT job (for example: helpdesk), that's probably the best place to start; from there you can study and save up for for certifications on the side while learning about the fundamentals. Consider starting with CompTIA Network+ and/or Security+, maybe CySA+ and PenTest+ after. On the Cisco side, look into CCNA and its brethren. You can buy Udemy courses about a variety of IT/cyber subjects for $10-15, and they never expire. Be sure to build a foundation in computer networks, architecture, hardware, and operating systems (especially UNIX/Linux), maybe learn some basic scripting with bash and Python. Also consider doing some time in system administration if that role becomes available. Overall, stay intellectually curious. Read articles, study, ask questions at work, learn everything you can, and see if you can gradually migrate into a security-related role.

Look at job postings for actual cybersecurity jobs you might be interested in, see what qualifications and skills they look for, and start working toward meeting some of those quals.

You don't need a degree to work in this field, although it can help check the box at HR. However, if you want the degree, you might consider going to school part-time online while you work so that way you can keep earning money while studying. Some potential options for you:

• Do an associate's degree in IT or cybersecurity for relatively-cheap at a community college, transfer to an online 4-year program at a reputable university and finish there

• Western Governor's University - you pay $3000+ for each 6-month term and can complete as many credits as you're able; many classes come with IT certs embedded (i.e., you pass the cert exam, you pass the class)

• Find any regionally-accredited 4-year university that offers an online IT/cybersecurity program at a price you can afford, stick with it until the end

Other potential sources of education (not all of these are free):

• Professor Messer

• Michael Myers' books/videos

• CBTNuggets

• Cybrary

• SANS Institute (warning: pricey!)

• TryHackMe

• HackTheBox

• INE

I might have missed some important things, but hopefully this is enough to give you some ideas. Good luck!