What is GSoC?
GSoC(Google Summer Of Code) is a global, online mentoring program focused on introducing new contributors to open source software development. GSoC contributors work on a 12+ week programming project with the guidance of mentors from their open-source organization.
During Google Summer of Code, participating contributors are paired with mentors from open source organizations, gaining exposure to real-world software development techniques. Contributors will learn from experienced open source developers while writing code for real-world projects! A small stipend is provided as an incentive.
Please do not run behind the stipend this program offers, instead try to get as much exposure as you can get and focus on applying your knowledge as much as you can.
Eligibility ( As a Contributor )
- Must be at least 18 years old at the time of registration.
- Must be an open-source beginner.
- Must be eligible to work in their country of residence during the duration of program.
- Must be a resident of a country not currently embargoed by the United States.
For more info about the contributor agreement Click here
"What Programming languages are required"?
The programming language you need to know depends on which organization you are interested in working with. You should be familiar with the programming language(s) used by that organization's project. Also, having an understanding of GitHub and the version control system is a plus point cuz you will need this a lot during the whole program contributing journey.
When to apply🤔
After Google announces the name of the organizations, students need to submit their project proposals to the selected organization (generally at the time of March and April). I do recommend you to keep an eye on the GSoC website as well to keep yourself updated.
Timeline for this year
I am sharing the whole timeline of the program so that you can have a clear idea of what goes on, during the entire season of the program.
What is a Proposal and How to write it?🤔
A proposal is basically you describing to your organization how you would go about the project. Based on this and your credibility, your organization would contemplate whether to select you or not
The best proposals are from participants who took the time to interact and discuss their ideas with the organization before submission. Be sure to include the following: detail on exactly what you're proposing, why you're proposing it, and the reason you're qualified to do it.
I've added the sample proposal. Get inspiration and take an idea of how to write it in the correct format. Sample Proposal
"How do increase my chances of getting accepted as a contributor"? 🤔
Just have a look at this
Golden Tip
Don't wait for the program to start, just go to the GSoC website and search the organizations who have taken part in the program for at least two continuous years and do start contribution's to their project and you can ask them do they have the plan to participate next year as well. ( NOTE: This doesn't mean the organization will get selection for sure, the Final decision will be in the hand of the program team of GSoC ).
Reason for contributing early to the organization is that You will have a bunch of contributions that will help you to get your selection rates higher.
Still have doubts ( Check this out )
There are a ton of FAQ folks have but I have mentioned the most asked queries answers below.
1.Do I need to send the proposal directly to my mentoring organization??
No, all proposals must be submitted through the program site. Proposals submitted outside of the Google Summer of Code program site will not be considered for Google Summer of Code.
2.Does GSoC count as an internship, a job, or any form of employment?
No. GSoC is an activity that a participant performs as an independent developer for which they are paid a stipend. Participants are not employed by, working at, or for, Google.
3."I've submitted the proposal", What's next?🤔
You don’t need to sit idle once you submit your proposal. Keep contributing, it will make a good impression and it will create an image that you are a serious contributor then just wait for the result from Google.
4.Is Google Summer of Code (GSoC) a recruiting program?
No. If you are interested in working for Google, please visit the Google jobs website.
5.Can I participate in GSoC as both a mentor and a GSoC Contributor?
No. Mentors are people who have been involved in an open source organization and wish to help guide new contributors to their community in the GSoC program. GSoC contributors are people who are new to an open source organization.
6.Will you make an exception for me?
No. We cannot make an exception if you do not meet the eligibility requirements, no matter how talented or interested you are. Thousands of GSoC Contributors apply, and making an exception for you wouldn't be fair.
7.Can I submit more than one proposal?
Yes, each GSoC Contributor may submit up to three proposals. However, only one per GSoC Contributor may be accepted. No more than one proposal per GSoC Contributor will be accepted, no matter how many proposals you submit.
8.I turn 18 after the GSoC Contributor registration period ends, can I still participate?
No, you must be 18 when you register for GSoC. If you turn 18 even a few days later you are not eligible to participate in this year's program, please check back for a future program.
Final Thoughts
If you have the enthusiasm and eagerness to learn and explore you all will make out on yourself just work hard and all the odds will be in your favor one day.
Credit's
Kunal Podcast with Logan on GSoC
and GSoC official Documentation
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