Essential Open Source Programs You Should Consider Joining
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Exploring Open Source Opportunities
Open-source software is freely available to the public, allowing individuals with the necessary skills to participate in its development. This environment is particularly beneficial for newcomers in technology, providing them with practical experience, opportunities to learn, and a chance to enhance their portfolios.
Participating in open-source initiatives can be fulfilling, as it contributes to project advancements, aids personal skill growth, expands professional networks, and can even open doors to employment opportunities.
Below is a list of the top 15 paid open-source programs you should consider applying for:
Google Summer of Code (GSoC)
A Google initiative that invites students and others to engage in open source by completing either short-term or long-term projects.
- Perks: Mentees earn $1,500 for short-term projects and $3,000 for long-term projects, with potential maximums of $3,300 and $6,600, respectively, based on location.
- Duration: 12 weeks
- Application Period: March to April
- Project Timeline: May to August
Google Season of Docs (GSoD)
This program, also organized by Google, focuses on technical writers, mirroring the structure of GSoC. Participants write for various organizations.
- Perks: Stipends range from $3,000 to $6,600 for projects registered under GSoD.
- Duration: 12 weeks
- Application Period: February to March
- Project Timeline: June to November
Outreachy
A program that champions diversity and inclusion, supporting individuals from underrepresented backgrounds (such as women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people of color).
- Perks: Mentees can receive up to $7,000 in total stipend for the internship.
- Duration: 12 weeks
- Application Period: January to February and August to September (twice a year)
- Project Timeline: May to August or December to March (twice a year)
Linux Foundation Mentorship Program (LFX)
Aimed at aspiring Linux developers, this program equips participants with essential skills and resources to effectively contribute to open source communities.
- Perks: Participants earn a minimum of $3,000 (for India) and up to $6,600 based on their country.
- Duration: 12 weeks, though it can vary by organization.
- Application Period: Opens approximately 4 weeks before the start date.
- Project Timeline: Varies each term — mid-January (Spring), mid-April (Summer), mid-July (Fall)
Major League Hacking (MLH) Fellowship
Powered by GitHub, this program includes tracks in software engineering, open source, and data management, offering a real-world software engineering experience.
- Perks: Stipend is based on individual needs.
- Duration: 12 weeks, can vary by organization.
- Application Period: July to August
- Project Timeline: Starts in September
Alibaba Summer of Code (AliSoc/ASoC)
A global initiative that engages students in open source software development, providing mentorship and real-world experience.
- Perks: Scholarships, open source contributor certificates, and fast-tracked internship opportunities with Alibaba.
- Duration: 12 weeks
- Application Period: March to April
- Project Timeline: May to August
Summer of Bitcoin
An online program introducing university students to bitcoin open-source development, aimed at fostering careers in the field.
- Perks: Stipend in bitcoin, return offers for subsequent summers, and opportunities at leading bitcoin companies.
- Duration: 12 weeks
- Application Period: January to April
- Project Timeline: May to August
Hyperledger Mentorship Program
Focused on blockchain developers, this initiative encourages contributions to Hyperledger projects.
- Perks: Stipends of $3,000 to $6,600 based on location.
- Duration: 24 weeks
- Application Period: February to March
- Project Timeline: June to November
Reinforcement Learning Open Source Fest
Organized by Microsoft, this program allows participants to build programs and documentation, specifically for students.
- Perks: Mentees receive a stipend of $10,000.
- Duration: 4 months
- Application Period: February to April
- Project Timeline: May to August and September to December (two batches)
LFN Mentorship Program
Similar to LFX, this program allows Linux developers to engage in open-source projects and gain mentorship.
- Perks: Stipends range from $3,000 to $6,600 based on location.
- Duration: 12 weeks
- Application Period: January to February
- Project Timeline: June to August
Linux Kernel Mentorship Program
This structured program offers remote learning opportunities for aspiring Linux Kernel developers, guided by experienced mentors.
- Perks: Mentees earn $3,000 to $6,600 and gain interview opportunities with employers.
- Duration: 12 weeks
The X.Org Endless Vacation Of Code (EVoC)
Participants write proposals and seek mentors to begin projects, following a structure similar to GSoC.
- Perks: Initial payment of $500 and milestone payments totaling $5,000.
- Duration: 12–14 weeks
24 Pull Requests
This initiative promotes contributions to open source projects during December, encouraging participants to submit 24 pull requests within the month.
- Perks: Participants receive swag and recognition for their contributions.
- Duration: 1 month
FOSSASIA Internship Program
Offers various engagement opportunities through coding programs, internships, and stipends in collaboration with partners.
- Perks: Internships, stipends, and monthly remuneration based on internship scope and qualifications.
- Duration: 2–6 months
GitHub Octernship Program
Connects students with industry partners for paid experiences and mentorship in open source and software development.
- Perks: A minimum stipend of $500.
- Duration: 1–6 months
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