Google Summer of Code 2026 Mentor Applications Close February 3

Google Summer of Code (GSoC), the annual program connecting students with open source projects through paid summer internships, has opened mentor organization applications for 2026. Open source projects interested in participating have until February 3, 2026, to submit applications, with Google planning to announce accepted organizations on February 19.

Program Structure

Google Summer of Code operates in phases: first, open source organizations apply to become mentoring organizations. Once accepted, these organizations propose project ideas and recruit mentors from their communities. Students then apply to work on specific projects, and if selected, receive stipends from Google to contribute to open source software over the summer months. The program has introduced thousands of developers to open source development since its inception in 2005.

What Organizations Should Prepare

Prospective mentor organizations should prepare their applications with clear project ideas suitable for contributors at various experience levels, a roster of available mentors, and evidence of an active open source community. Google evaluates applications based on project viability, community health, and the organization's capacity to provide meaningful mentorship. Organizations that have participated in previous years are not guaranteed acceptance and must reapply annually.

Timeline Ahead

Following the February 19 announcement of accepted organizations, student applications will open in March, with the coding period typically beginning in May. The program runs through late summer, with students working closely with mentors to deliver meaningful contributions to their chosen projects. Organizations interested in applying should visit the official Google Summer of Code website for application guidelines and requirements.