How to Get Google Summer of Code (GSoC) from Nepal & India: Complete Guide 2026

Introduction

Google Summer of Code (GSoC) is one of the most prestigious online programs for students and beginner developers. It allows you to contribute to real-world open-source projects, learn coding best practices, and earn a stipend—all while receiving mentorship from global experts.

For students in Nepal and India, GSoC is a golden opportunity to enhance technical skills, contribute to international projects, and build a strong resume for future careers.

This guide walks you through how to apply, prepare, and succeed in GSoC, step by step, even if you are a beginner.

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Why GSoC Matters for Students in Nepal and India

Many students wonder why GSoC is worth the effort. Here’s why:

• Global Exposure – Collaborate with mentors and developers worldwide, learning international coding standards.
• Skill Development – Gain hands-on experience in coding, problem-solving, project management, and documentation.
• Career Opportunities – Boost your CV and portfolio, opening doors to full-time jobs, freelancing, or remote work.
• Stipend & Recognition – Earn $750–$3000 depending on project size, while gaining global recognition.
• Networking – Connect with a community of 21,000+ mentors and contributors for future collaborations.

Nepal and India already have successful GSoC stories, proving that location is not a barrier. Dedication and preparation matter most.

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What is Google Summer of Code (GSoC)?

GSoC is a structured online program running for 12 weeks each year. The steps are:

1. Organizations Apply – Open-source organizations submit project ideas and mentors.
2. Students Apply – Submit a detailed project proposal for your chosen organization.
3. Mentorship – Mentors guide you throughout coding, reviewing work and providing feedback.
4. Coding Period – Work on your project, submitting code, documentation, and updates.
5. Final Evaluation – Mentors evaluate your project. Successful projects receive a stipend.

Official GSoC Website

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Step 1: Start Contributing to Open Source Early

Prior contribution is key for selection. Here’s how to begin:

• Explore GSoC organizations matching your skills.
• Pick projects that match at least 30% of your technical skills.
• Start with small tasks: bug fixes, documentation, or pull requests.
• Engage with mentors politely and consistently.

Tip: Smaller organizations often have less competition.

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Step 2: Build a Strong GitHub/GitLab Portfolio

Your portfolio acts as a digital resume:

• Showcase merged pull requests and contributions.
• Contribute to documentation, bug fixes, and code improvements.
• Keep code clean, readable, and well-commented.
• Include personal projects related to the organization’s requirements.

A strong portfolio signals reliability and capability.

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Step 3: Selecting the Right Organization and Project

Follow these steps:

1. Check Activity – Ensure the organization is active year-round.
2. Align Interests – Choose projects you are passionate about.
3. Match Skills – Align at least 30% of required skills; learning new tools is okay.

Examples for Nepali & Indian students:

• Accord Project – JSON ↔ YAML converters (Nepal, 2025)
• Sugar Labs – Learning platform contributions (India, 2025)

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Step 4: Proposal Writing for GSoC

A strong proposal is crucial. Include:

• Project Overview – Describe the problem and your solution.
• Technical Details – Demonstrate knowledge of required languages/frameworks.
• Timeline – Break the project into weekly milestones.
• Deliverables – Specify code, documentation, or features.
• References – Link GitHub contributions or related projects.

Tip: Read accepted proposals for reference: GSoC Sample Proposal

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Step 5: Managing Time and Preparation

Balance GSoC with college, internships, or freelancing:

• Start contributing 3–6 months before application.
• Focus on quality contributions.
• Participate in coding events like Hacktoberfest or local hackathons.
• Learn tools: Git, GitHub, GitLab, Markdown, project management basics.

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Step 6: Community Bonding and Coding Period

Once selected:

• Community Bonding Period – Engage with mentors and contributors.
• Understand the Codebase – Explore before coding.
• Communicate Regularly – Submit weekly updates, respond to feedback.
• Problem Solving – Show independence while seeking guidance when needed.

Active communication and professionalism are key.

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Common Challenges and Solutions

1. Large Codebases – Focus on one module first.
2. Time Constraints – Use weekly schedules, avoid last-minute coding.
3. Knowledge Gaps – Learn basics of required tools and languages beforehand.
4. Communication Issues – Be clear, polite, and show initiative.

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Success Stories from Nepal and India

• Asmit Phuyal (Nepal, 2025) – Accord Project, JSON ↔ YAML converter.
• Karan Palan (India, 2025) – Sugar Labs, learning platforms.
• Other Nepali students now work remotely for global companies.

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FAQs – Google Summer of Code

Q1: Can students from Nepal apply? Yes, students from Nepal, India, and 68+ countries are eligible.

Q2: What is the stipend? Small: $750, Medium: $1500, Large: $3000.

Q3: How early to start contributing? 3–6 months before application.

Q4: How to select the right organization? Align with skills and interests; prioritize quality.

Q5: What if I fail to get selected? Your contributions stay in your portfolio; you can reapply next year.

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Recommended Resources

• GSoC Organizations
• Knowlary: BCA/BSc Internships
• Knowlary: Data Science Internships
• YouTube Open Source Tutorials: Kunal Kushwaha

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Final Thoughts

Getting GSoC from Nepal or India is challenging but achievable. Focus on:

• Building a strong GitHub portfolio
• Choosing projects wisely
• Writing clear proposals
• Engaging actively with mentors
• Gaining international coding experience

GSoC is more than an internship—it’s a career-defining opportunity. Start contributing now and prepare for a bright open-source journey.

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