Question 1

What is GSSoC 2026?

Accepted Answer

GirlScript Summer of Code 2026 (GSSoC 2026) is India's largest free open source and AI builder program run by GirlScript Foundation. It connects contributors, mentors, and project admins across two tracks: Open Source and Agents for India.

Question 2

Is GSSoC 2026 free to join?

Accepted Answer

Yes. GSSoC is completely free. GirlScript Foundation is a registered non-profit. There is no registration fee, no payment required at any stage. The program is free forever.

Question 3

Who can apply to GSSoC 2026?

Accepted Answer

Anyone can apply to GSSoC 2026 - students, working professionals, and hobbyists. You can apply as a Contributor / Mentee, Mentor, Project Admin, Volunteer, Ambassador, or GSX Chapter Lead.

Question 4

What are the tracks in GSSoC 2026?

Accepted Answer

GSSoC 2026 has two tracks: the Open Source Track (contribute to real GitHub repositories) and the Agents for India Track (build AI agents for Indian use cases). Both tracks run simultaneously during the program.

Question 5

How does the GSSoC 2026 leaderboard work?

Accepted Answer

The GSSoC 2026 leaderboard ranks participants based on merged pull requests, open source contributions, profile completeness, and role-specific activities. Points are calculated automatically and update in real time.

Question 6

When does GSSoC 2026 start and end?

Accepted Answer

GSSoC 2026 runs from May 1 to August 31, 2026. The application review period is March–April 2026. Results and certificates are released in September 2026.

Question 7

What is the difference between GSSoC and GSoC?

Accepted Answer

GSSoC (GirlScript Summer of Code) is run by GirlScript Foundation and is completely free, open to everyone worldwide, and includes an AI Agents track unique to India. Google Summer of Code (GSoC) is run by Google and offers stipends but has a competitive selection process. Both programs promote open source contribution but serve different audiences and scales.

Question 8

Does GSSoC 2026 provide a certificate or stipend?

Accepted Answer

GSSoC 2026 provides digital certificates to all participants who successfully complete the program. There is no cash stipend — GSSoC is a volunteer learning program run by a registered non-profit. Top contributors may receive recognition awards, swag, and partner perks.

Question 9

How do I get selected for GSSoC 2026?

Accepted Answer

Apply at gssoc.girlscript.org/apply. Fill in your details, select your role (contributor, mentor, project admin, etc.), and submit. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. There is no entrance test — selections are based on your profile and motivation.

Question 10

What are the best open source programs for students in India?

Accepted Answer

The top open source programs for students in India are: GirlScript Summer of Code (GSSoC) — India's largest, completely free; Google Summer of Code (GSoC) — global, paid stipend; Social Winter of Code (SWoC); Winter of Code (WoC). GSSoC is the most accessible as it has no selection barrier and accepts all skill levels.

Question 11

Can beginners with no open source experience apply to GSSoC 2026?

Accepted Answer

Yes. GSSoC 2026 is explicitly designed for all skill levels including complete beginners. Every accepted project has beginner-friendly issues labeled Good First Issue, and every contributor is assigned a mentor. Prior open source experience is welcome but not required.