Internet Society Fellowship Program 2026/2027 Now Open

The Internet Society Fellowship Program 2026/2027 is open to experienced Internet changemakers and emerging leaders worldwide. This 10-month fellowship combines self-paced training, mentorship, expert engagement, and a practical project focused on strengthening the Internet in fellows’ communities.

The program runs primarily online. In addition, selected fellows may receive travel support to attend a relevant global or regional Internet event. Fellows can also access a project stipend of up to USD $5,000, subject to budget approval.

Application Deadline: 18 December 2026

Eligible Countries: Global

Program Duration: 10-month program overall; includes a 6-month mentored project implementation period. Program Location: Primarily online (self-paced pre-fellowship training and virtual program activities) with travel support provided to attend a global or regional Internet event. Funding/Benefits: Project stipend of up to USD $5,000 (upon submission and approval of the project budget)

Award Provider: Internet Society

About this Program

The Internet Society Fellowship Program is a structured learning and leadership opportunity for people working to expand and strengthen the Internet. Specifically, the fellowship supports practical community-based work across policy, connectivity, or safety and security tracks.

First, participants must complete the required pre-fellowship training. After that, eligible applicants can submit their fellowship application and project proposal. Successful fellows then move into a mentored implementation phase that lasts about six months.

Throughout the program, fellows engage in weekly sessions, expert discussions, and guided project work. As a result, participants gain practical experience while contributing to Internet development in their communities.

Eligibility Criteria

Must enroll in and complete all required Pre-Fellowship Training before 22 November 2026 to become eligible to apply

Eligible participants receive the application link after training completion and may apply on a rolling basis no later than 18 December 2026

High level of English reading, speaking, and writing skills

Reliable internet access and appropriate equipment for virtual participation

Availability to dedicate a minimum of four hours per week during the 10-month program

Valid passport valid at least six months beyond anticipated fellowship-related travel dates

Cannot be a current 2026 Internet Society fellow

What Fellows Receive: Dedicated mentor aligned with project area and track/sub-track; project stipend of up to USD $5,000 (subject to budget approval); travel support to attend a global or regional Internet event (e.g., IGF, AfPIF, NDSS Symposium, or program-relevant event); access to the Internet Society Alumni Network and global network of Internet leaders; expert engagement opportunities and structured learning modules.

Program Components Pre-fellowship self-paced training, fellowship application and project proposal development, weekly sessions, expert engagement, mentor support, and a 6-month practical project with defined objectives, activities, deliverables, and outcomes.

How to Apply

To apply, interested participants must first complete the required pre-fellowship training. Then, eligible candidates receive the application link and can submit their application before the deadline.

Applicants should be ready to provide the required materials, which include

Completion confirmation of required Pre-Fellowship Training

Project plan/proposal developed during training

Evidence of English proficiency (high level of reading, speaking, writing)

Reliable internet access and appropriate equipment

Valid passport (valid at least six months beyond anticipated fellowship-related travel dates)

👉 Visit the official fellowship page for details

Applicants must hold a valid passport that remains valid for at least six months beyond anticipated fellowship-related travel dates.

Criteria

Must enroll in and complete all required Pre-Fellowship Training before 22 November 2026 to become eligible to apply Eligible participants receive the application link after training completion and may apply on a rolling basis no later than 18 December 2026

High level of English reading, speaking, and writing skills

Reliable internet access and appropriate equipment for virtual participation

Availability to dedicate a minimum of four hours per week during the 10-month program

Valid passport valid at least six months beyond anticipated fellowship-related travel dates

Cannot be a current 2026 Internet Society fellow

What Fellows Receive: Dedicated mentor aligned with project area and track/sub-track; project stipend of up to USD $5,000 (subject to budget approval); travel support to attend a global or regional Internet event (e.g., IGF, AfPIF, NDSS Symposium, or program-relevant event); access to the Internet Society Alumni Network and global network of Internet leaders; expert engagement opportunities and structured learning modules. Program Components Pre-fellowship self-paced training, fellowship application and project proposal development, weekly sessions, expert engagement, mentor support, and a 6-month practical project with defined objectives, activities, deliverables, and outcomes.

To apply, interested participants must first complete the required pre-fellowship training. Then, eligible candidates receive the application link and can submit their application before the deadline.

Applicants should be ready to provide the required materials, which include

Completion confirmation of required Pre-Fellowship Training

Project plan/proposal developed during training

Evidence of English proficiency (high level of reading, speaking, writing)

Reliable internet access and appropriate equipment

Valid passport (valid at least six months beyond anticipated fellowship-related travel dates)

👉 Visit the official fellowship page for details