Applications are now open for the NextGen ICANN88 Program 2027 in Portugal, offering university students an opportunity to attend the ICANN88 Community Forum in Lisbon with financial support for selected participants.
The NextGen@ICANN program introduces young students to Internet governance, policy development, digital technology, and the ICANN ecosystem. Selected participants receive travel support, accommodation, and a stipend while taking part in mentoring, learning activities, and the ICANN community.
The program is open to eligible students from ICANN regions around the world, and there is no application fee.
NextGen ICANN88 Program 2027 – Quick Details
What Is the NextGen@ICANN Program?
NextGen@ICANN is a youth-focused program designed to introduce university students to Internet governance, policy development, and the work of ICANN.
Participants selected for the program receive coaching and mentoring and take part in activities connected with the ICANN Public Meeting.
Participants are also expected to give a presentation during the meeting, providing an opportunity to share their ideas and engage with members of the global Internet governance community.
Financial Benefits
Selected NextGen@ICANN participants receive a support grant covering:
✈️ Economy-class airfare
🏨 Hotel accommodation
💰 Stipend
These benefits provide financial support for selected participants attending the ICANN88 meeting in Lisbon.
Who Can Apply?
The NextGen ICANN88 Program is designed for students who are interested in Internet governance, technology, digital policy, and related areas.
Applicants must:
Eligible ICANN Regions
The source identifies the relevant regions as:
Applicants should confirm their applicable ICANN region before submitting an application.
Program Activities
Selected participants are expected to actively participate in the NextGen@ICANN program.
Activities include:
What You Can Gain From the Program
The NextGen ICANN88 experience provides participants with exposure to:
The program is particularly relevant for students who want to learn more about how the Internet’s technical governance and multistakeholder model operate.
NextGen ICANN88 Program 2027 Deadline
The application deadline is October 9, 2026.
Applicants should complete and submit their applications before the deadline to be considered for the program.
How to Apply for the NextGen ICANN88 Program 2027
Follow these steps to apply:
Step 1: Create or Log In to Your ICANN Account
Visit the official ICANN website and create an account if you do not already have one.
Step 2: Access the Application Portal
Open the NextGen@ICANN application portal.
Step 3: Complete Your Applicant Profile
Provide the requested personal, academic, and other information.
Step 4: Complete the Application
Fill out the NextGen@ICANN application carefully and provide all required information.
Step 5: Review Your Application
Check your information carefully before submitting.
Step 6: Submit Before the Deadline
Submit your application before October 9, 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the NextGen ICANN88 Program?
It is a youth program that gives university students an opportunity to attend the ICANN88 Community Forum and learn about Internet governance, policy, technology, and the ICANN ecosystem.
Where will ICANN88 take place?
The ICANN88 Community Forum will take place in Lisbon, Portugal.
When is ICANN88?
The meeting is scheduled for March 13–18, 2027.
Is the NextGen ICANN88 Program fully funded?
The supplied source describes the program as fully funded and lists support for economy-class airfare, hotel accommodation, and a stipend.
Who is eligible?
Undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral students between 18 and 30 years old who live and study in the relevant ICANN region can apply, provided they meet the other requirements.
Do I need to pay an application fee?
No. The source states that there is no application fee.
Do I need to be studying a specific degree?
The source does not specify a particular degree or academic major. Applicants should have an interest in Internet governance, technology, digital policy, or related topics.
Do I have to give a presentation?
Yes. Selected participants are expected to give a 10-minute presentation during the ICANN meeting.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline is October 9, 2026.
Final Thoughts
The NextGen ICANN88 Program 2027 provides students with an opportunity to travel to Lisbon, participate in the ICANN88 Community Forum, learn about Internet governance, and connect with an international community working in technology and digital policy.
Selected participants receive support covering airfare, hotel accommodation, and a stipend, while also taking part in mentoring, coaching, learning activities, and a presentation during the ICANN meeting.
If you meet the age, student-status, regional, and interest requirements, prepare your application carefully and submit it before the October 9, 2026 deadline.
Official Application Link
Apply for the NextGen ICANN88 Program 2027:
https://www.icann.org/public-responsibility-support/nextgen
