The program combines pre-fellowship training, structured online learning, expert mentorship, a practical community project, and participation in regional or global Internet governance and technology events. Successful fellows may also receive a project stipend of up to US$5,000 and fully funded travel support to attend major international Internet events.
About the Internet Society Fellowship Program
The Internet Society Fellowship Program is a comprehensive leadership and capacity-building initiative designed to support experienced Internet changemakers and emerging leaders. Fellows work on locally grounded projects while developing practical expertise in Internet policy, digital inclusion, connectivity, cybersecurity, and online trust and safety.
Throughout the 10-month journey, participants engage with global experts, collaborate with peers from diverse regions, and become part of the Internet Society’s international alumni community committed to building an open, secure, and accessible Internet.
Fellowship Benefits
Selected fellows receive a wide range of professional development opportunities, including:
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- A dedicated mentor aligned with their project and fellowship track
- A project stipend of up to US$5,000 (subject to budget approval)
- Fully funded travel support to attend a regional or global Internet event
- Structured leadership and technical training over 10 months
- Opportunities to engage with international Internet experts and practitioners
- Access to the global Internet Society Alumni Network
- Professional networking with fellows from around the world
Note: Completing the Pre-Fellowship Training is required for eligibility but does not guarantee selection into the fellowship.
Fellowship Tracks
Applicants choose a track that best matches their experience and proposed project.
Internet Policy and Mobilization
This track develops advocates who influence Internet policy and strengthen community participation in digital governance.
Sub-tracks:
- Internet Policy
- Community Mobilization
Internet Connectivity
Designed for technical professionals working to improve Internet infrastructure and access.
Sub-tracks:
- Peering
- Community-Centered Connectivity
Internet Safety and Security
Focused on strengthening cybersecurity research and promoting safer online environments.
Sub-tracks:
- Systems Security
- Online Trust and Safety
Eligibility Requirements
To become eligible for the fellowship, applicants must first complete the mandatory Pre-Fellowship Training.
The eligibility process requires participants to:
- Enroll in the official Pre-Fellowship Training
- Successfully complete all required learning modules
- Finish the training before 22 November 2026
- Receive the fellowship application link by email
- Submit the fellowship application by 18 December 2026
The application process operates on a rolling basis once participants become eligible.
Fellowship Timeline
| Stage | Date |
|---|---|
| Pre-Fellowship Training Opens | Open now |
| Complete Required Modules | By 22 November 2026 |
| Receive Application Link | Within 24 hours of completion |
| Fellowship Application Deadline | 18 December 2026 |
| Fellowship Duration | 10 months |
Applicant Journey
The selection process follows seven stages:
- Enroll in the Pre-Fellowship Training
- Complete all required learning modules
- Receive the fellowship application link
- Submit the fellowship application
- Applications undergo review and selection
- Successful candidates receive fellowship offers
- Fellows begin the 10-month program
Timeline
- 23 September 2026–22 November 2026: Open enrollment period for pre-fellowship training (self-paced)
- 18 December 2026: Fellowship applications close. Open on a rolling basis as soon as a trainee completes their modules.
- 21 December 2026–29 January 2027: Fellowship application review and selection
- 19 February 2027: Fellowship notifications and acceptance
- 22 February 2027: Kick-off and onboarding
- 1 March 2027–26 March 2027: Mentor application open
- 29 March 2027–16 April 2027: Mentor applications review and selection
- 30 April 2027: Mentor notifications and acceptance
- 1 June 2027–30 November 2027: Mentored project execution
- 3 December 2027: Final project delivery
- Early December 2027: Graduation ceremony
Why This Fellowship Matters
The Internet Society Fellowship Program empowers professionals who want to improve Internet access, strengthen digital rights, enhance cybersecurity, and promote inclusive Internet governance. Rather than focusing solely on technical training, the fellowship encourages participants to design practical projects that create measurable impact within their own communities.
The combination of mentorship, financial support, leadership development, and international exposure makes it an exceptional opportunity for individuals committed to shaping the future of the Internet.
How to Strengthen Your Application
A strong application should clearly demonstrate both leadership potential and community impact.
- Select the fellowship track that aligns closely with your expertise.
- Develop a practical project addressing a real Internet challenge.
- Highlight previous leadership, technical, or community engagement experience.
- Explain the long-term impact your project will create.
- Complete the Pre-Fellowship Training well before the deadline to allow sufficient time for the application.
Application Process
Prospective fellows must first enroll in and complete the mandatory Pre-Fellowship Training. Only participants who successfully complete all required modules will receive the official fellowship application link by email. Applications must be submitted no later than 18 December 2026.
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
