NextGen@ICANN Program

The NextGen@ICANN Program offers university students an opportunity to learn about Internet governance, ICANN’s role in the technical coordination of the Internet, and the multistakeholder policy development model.

Selected participants will attend the ICANN88 Community Forum in Lisbon, Portugal, from 13 to 18 March 2027. Before the meeting, participants are required to attend online courses and presentations starting approximately six weeks in advance. During the ICANN meeting, each participant is also expected to give a 10-minute presentation. Experienced mentors support participants throughout the program.

Eligibility:

• Be enrolled as an undergraduate, graduate or doctoral student.

• Be between 18 and 30 years old at the time of ICANN88.

• Currently live and study in the European region.

• Demonstrate an interest in the Internet ecosystem, Internet governance, technology, public policy or related areas.

• Explain how participation in NextGen@ICANN would benefit both the applicant and their wider community.

Students living and studying in Russia are eligible to apply, as ICANN classifies the Russian Federation as part of its European region.

Funding:

• Round-trip economy airfare booked and paid for directly by ICANN.

• Hotel accommodation paid for by ICANN.

• A stipend of up to US$500 for meals, local transportation and other reasonable expenses.

• Visa-related expenses may be reimbursed up to US$200.

Participants are responsible for obtaining the required visa themselves.

Program dates: 13–18 March 2027
Application deadline: 9 October 2026 at 23:59 UTC
Selection results: 17 December 2026