You can start applying for the Google Summer of Code (GSoC) 2025 Program, which is global and aims to engage student developers in a 3-month programming project during their academic break.
This is an amazing program as it gives opportunities to get paid for writing code and contribute to real-world software development.
Without long explanations, please scroll down to learn more about the program, from requirements to benefits and how to apply, as they are all explained in simple terms.
What is Google Summer Code?
Google Summer of Code (GSoC) is an annual program that offers individuals aged 18 and over the opportunity to contribute to open-source projects under the guidance of experienced mentors.
Since its inception in 2005, GSoC has welcomed over 21,000 new contributors from 123 countries into the open-source community.
Summary of Google Summer of Code
| Host | |
| Eligible countries | All countries |
| IELTS | No IELTS Required |
| Reward | $6,000 Stipend | Training | Certification |
| Deadline | April 8, 2025 |
Application Timeline for GSoC 2025
| Date/Time | Deadlines |
| March 24, 18:00 UTC | Contributor application period begins |
| April 8, 18:00 UTC | Application deadline |
| May 8, 18:00 UTC | Accepted projects announced |
| May 8 – June 1 | Community Bonding Period |
| June 2 | Coding officially begins |
| August 25 – September 1, 18:00 UTC | Final week for standard coding period projects. |
| September 1 – November 9 | Extended coding period for select projects |
| November 10, 18:00 UTC | Final submission deadline for all projects |
Eligibility Criteria
Must be at least 18 years old at the time of registration.
Be a student or an open-source beginner.
Must be eligible to work in their country of residence during the program’s duration.
Benefits of Google Summer of Code (GSoC) 2025
- Duration: Accepted students spend the summer coding with guidance from a mentor (3 months).
- Stipend: Successful student contributors receive a USD 6000 stipend, allowing them to concentrate on coding for three months.
How to Apply | Easy Steps to Apply
- Understand the Program: Familiarize yourself with GSoC by reading the Contributor Guide and watching the Introduction to GSoC video.
- Identify Your Interests: Reflect on your skills, programming languages you’re proficient in, and areas of interest within computer science.
- Explore Mentoring Organizations: Review the list of accepted mentoring organizations and filter them based on your interests and skills
- Engage with Organizations: Visit the organizations’ websites, explore their repositories, and participate in their communication channels to understand their projects and community culture.
- Contribute Prior to Application: Consider making small contributions, such as fixing bugs or improving documentation, to demonstrate your commitment and familiarize yourself with the organization’s workflow.
- Draft a Proposal: Develop a detailed project proposal outlining your objectives, implementation plan, and timeline. Seek feedback from the organization’s community to refine your proposal.
- Submit Your Application: Register and submit your proposal through the GSoC program site between March 24 and April 8, 2025
Tips for a Successful Application
- Start Early: Begin researching and engaging with organizations well before the application period.
- Communicate Effectively: Clearly articulate your ideas and be proactive in seeking guidance from potential mentors.
- Demonstrate Passion: Show genuine interest in the organization’s projects and mission.
- Be Thorough: Ensure your application is complete, well-structured, and free of errors.
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