It’s official ✦ Google Summer of Code 2026 is coming
🗓 Key dates:
Applications open: March 16, 2026
Applications close: March 31, 2026
And if you are still planning to “start in March”… you’re already late.
The application period is NOT the preparation period.
As a GSoC 2025 contributor, I’ve seen firsthand how much this program can accelerate your learning, network, and career. It was a turning point for me, and I want more people from my network to experience that.
Here’s what I’d do if I were starting today for GSoC 2026:
1️⃣ Start TODAY, not in March
Don’t wait for the official org list.
Most orgs participate every year.
Pick 2–3 orgs & start exploring their ecosystem and see which ones align with your skills (web dev, systems, ML, security, etc.).
2️⃣ Observe before you contribute
Join their Slack, Discord, IRC, GitHub discussions, whatever they use.
Just watch how they talk, how they solve issues, how PRs are reviewed.
This will teach you more than any YouTube “GSoC roadmap” video.
3️⃣ Start with “small but visible”
Fix a typo.
Improve a README.
Refactor a tiny function.
Add missing documentation.
A “good first issue”
It’s not about “showing skills”…
It’s about showing you can collaborate.
These get your name on the board and show you are active.
4️⃣ Think in terms of a proposal from day one
While you contribute, keep a running document of:
Problems you notice in the project
Possible improvements
Links to your PRs and discussions
Good proposals don’t come from templates.
They come from actually understanding the codebase, talking to mentors, and solving real issues.
✦ If you’re serious about GSoC 2026…
Let's connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashutoshkumaraashu/
I’ll also be sharing more resources, templates, and my honest learnings from GSoC 2025 very soon.
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