The ICANN Fellowship Program helps people from underserved and underrepresented communities take part in the global internet governance process. The fully funded fellowship program strengthens the multistakeholder model by giving fellows a chance to learn about ICANN’s work, develop skills, and connect with experts.
Fellows get a mentor and training before, during, and after an ICANN Public Meeting. The program also supports travel costs so fellows can attend the meetings in person. This experience opens doors to networking, knowledge-building, and becoming active in internet policy and technical discussions.
The program welcomes applicants from all regions and backgrounds who are interested in ICANN’s work. Fellows are expected to engage fully, complete training courses, and participate actively in the community. Returning fellows and those with technical expertise from Africa may also be eligible for special recognition awards.
Quick Overview of the ICANN Fellowship Program 2025
- Host Location: ICANN Public Meetings globally (next: Mumbai, India)
- Application Deadline: August 22, 2025 (23:59 UTC)
- Program Duration: Around ICANN Meeting dates (March 7–12, 2026)
- Funding: Travel assistance, mentorship, training, and community participation support
- Eligibility: Age 21+, interest or engagement in internet governance and ICANN work
Perks of the ICANN Training Program
- Travel support to attend ICANN Public Meetings
- Dedicated mentor to guide fellows through the program
- Training on ICANN’s policies, the Domain Name System, and internet security
- Networking opportunities with global internet governance professionals
- Access to exclusive fellowship sessions during ICANN meetings
- Post-meeting community engagement and ongoing learning support
Benefits of the ICANN Fellowship Program
- Gain a deep understanding of global internet governance and policy
- Build connections with international experts and peers
- Develop skills to influence internet policy in your region
- Join a global network of ICANN Fellowship alumni
- Opportunity to contribute to the security and stability of the global Internet
- Receive recognition through awards like the Tarek Kamel Fellowship or the Paul Muchene Fellow Award
Exclusions of the Global Internet Policy Fellowship
- Applicants cannot be involved with other ICANN travel support programs during selection
- Policy Forum fellowships require prior ICANN Fellowship completion
- Travel support only covers the fellow, not family members
- Fellowship requires attendance at ICANN meetings (virtual option only if the meeting is virtual)
Eligibility Criteria of the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers Fellowship
- Must be 21 years or older at the time of application
- Interested in or currently engaged in ICANN’s work on policy, DNS, or internet security
- Completed mandatory ICANN Learn courses before selection
- Not involved with other ICANN travel programs at selection time
- Returning fellows must demonstrate active involvement in ICANN communities
- Must hold an ICANN Account to apply
Important Dates of the ICANN Fellowship Program 2025
- Application Opens: July 22, 2025
- Application Deadline: August 22, 2025 (23:59 UTC)
- Selected Fellows Announced: November 6, 2025
- ICANN85 Community Forum Dates: March 7–12, 2026 (Mumbai, India)
How to Apply to the International Governance Fellowship
- Create or log in to your ICANN Account.
- Complete all mandatory ICANN Learn courses.
- Visit the application portal.
- Fill out the application form with your personal, professional, and community involvement details.
- Submit your application before the deadline (August 22, 2025, 23:59 UTC).
- Await notification of selection in early November 2025.
Required Documents for ICANN Fellowship Program
- Valid government-issued ID or passport
- Proof of completion of mandatory ICANN Learn courses
- Any additional documents required in the online application (e.g., CV, statement of interest)
