2025 ICANN Fellowship Program: The 2025 ICANN Fellowship Program is now open for applications, offering a rare and rewarding opportunity for passionate individuals eager to participate in shaping the global internet landscape. Whether you’re a university student, an emerging tech policy leader, a digital rights advocate, or a professional from a region with limited representation in internet governance, this program could be your launchpad into the world of internet policy, infrastructure, and global collaboration.
ICANN (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers) is a nonprofit organization responsible for maintaining the stability and interoperability of the Domain Name System (DNS), a critical component of the global internet. ICANN’s Fellowship Program was created to ensure inclusivity, diversity, and equal opportunity for those interested in contributing to internet governance but lacking access to resources or established networks. It enables individuals from all corners of the world to engage in ICANN meetings, acquire essential knowledge, and become part of the decision-making fabric that shapes the future of the internet.
2025 ICANN Fellowship Program
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | ICANN Fellowship Program 2025 |
| Meeting | ICANN84 Annual General Meeting |
| Location | Muscat, Oman |
| Meeting Dates | October 25-30, 2025 |
| Application Deadline | March 25, 2025 (23:59 UTC) |
| Eligibility Age | Minimum 21 years old |
| Previous Fellowships | Max of two previous fellowships allowed |
| Required Courses | Must complete specific ICANN Learn courses |
| Official Website | ICANN Fellowship Page |
Why the ICANN Fellowship Program Matters
The ICANN Fellowship Program goes beyond financial support. It offers meaningful capacity building, technical training, global exposure, and leadership development. Fellows gain direct access to high-level discussions, participate in working groups, attend plenary sessions, and receive mentorship from seasoned internet governance professionals. This holistic experience provides a clear pathway for active involvement in ICANN’s multistakeholder model.
In today’s digitally connected world, policy decisions made within ICANN have long-reaching implications for internet freedom, cybersecurity, multilingual domain name systems, and equitable access to digital infrastructure. Therefore, having diverse representation at ICANN meetings ensures the internet evolves in a manner that reflects global needs, especially those of marginalized or less-represented communities.
Since its launch in 2007, the program has supported more than 1,000 fellows from over 160 countries, creating a powerful global alumni network. Many of these individuals now hold key positions in national digital policy bodies, academic institutions, non-profits, and technical organizations.
Real-World Example:
Imagine you’re a network engineer from Bangladesh working on expanding local internet access in rural communities. After completing your ICANN Learn courses and submitting a competitive application, you’re selected. At ICANN84 in Oman, you attend workshops on Universal Acceptance, engage with global DNS experts, and meet peers from across the world tackling similar challenges. Post-fellowship, you return home with knowledge, connections, and momentum to advocate for inclusive digital policies.
Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply For 2025 ICANN Fellowship Program?
To ensure transparency and fairness, ICANN has outlined clear eligibility criteria:
Age Requirement
- You must be at least 21 years old by the time of application submission. No exceptions are made for this age requirement.
Passion for ICANN’s Mission
- Demonstrable interest in ICANN’s core mission areas, such as:
- DNS stability and security
- Policy development and multistakeholder governance
- Internationalized Domain Names (IDNs)
- Cybersecurity and digital infrastructure
ICANN Learn Coursework
- Completion of designated ICANN Learn courses is mandatory. These free, self-paced online modules introduce core ICANN topics and ensure applicants are equipped with foundational knowledge.
Fellowship History
- First-time applicants are prioritized, especially if they belong to underrepresented regions or communities.
- Repeat applicants are eligible if they have not exceeded two previous fellowships and can demonstrate active contributions post-fellowship, such as joining ICANN working groups or organizing local outreach initiatives.
Travel Program Exclusivity
- Applicants must not be part of any other ICANN-supported travel initiative (e.g., NextGen@ICANN) during the same selection period.
How to Apply for 2025 ICANN Fellowship Program
Applying for the ICANN Fellowship Program is straightforward but competitive. Here’s how to increase your chances of success:
Step 1: Create Your ICANN Account
- Go to https://www.icann.org/fellowshipprogram
- Sign up for an ICANN Account to begin the application process.
Step 2: Enroll in ICANN Learn
- Head to ICANN Learn, create a learning profile, and search for mandatory coursework such as:
- “Introduction to ICANN”
- “ICANN and the Multistakeholder Model”
- “DNS Fundamentals”
- Complete the courses before you apply. Certificates of completion may be required.
Step 3: Prepare a Strong Application
- Be clear and honest about your goals, interests, and how this fellowship aligns with your career or advocacy work.
- Highlight:
- Any prior involvement with local or regional internet communities
- Volunteering in tech policy forums
- Contributions to academic or community-based digital literacy programs
Step 4: Submit by Deadline
- Ensure you submit your complete application by March 25, 2025 (23:59 UTC).
- ICANN does not accept late submissions or incomplete entries.
What the Fellowship Offers: Full Support Package
Successful applicants receive:
- Airfare: Round-trip economy class tickets to and from Muscat, Oman
- Accommodation: Paid hotel stay during the entire ICANN84 meeting
- Per Diem: Daily allowance to cover meals and basic expenses
- Mentorship: Personalized guidance from experienced ICANN community members
- Workshop Access: Invitations to exclusive training sessions and capacity development programs
Beyond logistical support, ICANN Fellows are immersed in dynamic discussions, networking opportunities, and community-driven activities that spark lifelong professional relationships.
Special Fellowship Recognitions
Paul Muchene Fellow Award
This prestigious award honors the memory of Paul Muchene, an ICANN staff member and alumnus who made significant contributions to technical capacity building in Africa. One fellow from the African continent with a strong technical background is selected for this honor each year.
Tarek Kamel Fellowship Recognition
Named after Dr. Tarek Kamel, a pioneer of internet development in Egypt and the Arab region, this recognition goes to an individual who has demonstrated exemplary commitment to local or regional internet capacity-building initiatives.
Career & Community Impact: What Happens After?
The benefits of participating in the ICANN Fellowship Program extend well beyond the meeting itself. Past fellows have:
- Led national-level policy initiatives for digital inclusion
- Represented their regions in international forums like the Internet Governance Forum (IGF)
- Launched internet-focused community organizations or nonprofits
- Become recognized contributors to ICANN policy development processes
In addition to professional growth, many fellows become champions of internet literacy, cybersecurity awareness, and technical training in their home countries.
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FAQs about ICANN Fellowship Program 2025
Can I apply if I’m a student?
Yes. Students who meet the age and coursework requirements and have relevant interests or projects are encouraged to apply.
Is the fellowship available in multiple languages?
The application and ICANN Learn materials are primarily in English, but interpretation services are often available during the actual meeting.
Can past applicants reapply?
Absolutely. Many fellows apply more than once. Just ensure you highlight your new contributions and experiences.
Will the fellowship continue after 2025?
Yes. ICANN offers fellowship rounds for each of its three annual meetings. If you miss this one, keep an eye on future calls for applications.
Are travel documents or visas covered?
While ICANN provides invitation letters and guidance, visa costs and processes are the fellow’s responsibility. Start early!
