16 days left Fully Funded

Internet Society Peering Fellowship 2026 (Fully Funded)

Last updated May 1, 2026

Deadline

2026-05-17

Country

Rwanda, Argentina, Japan

Level

fellowship

Organization

Internet Society

Field

Information Technology, Telecommunications, Internet Governance

Funding

fully funded

Overview

The Internet Society Peering Fellowship 2026 is a fully funded, six-month program designed for professionals interested in internet infrastructure, connectivity, and global networking systems. It offers hands-on learning and real-world exposure to how networks connect globally, focusing on improving local Internet interconnection infrastructure and advocating for supportive policy environments. The program aims to equip 20 peering and interconnection professionals with skills and knowledge to address challenges and maximize opportunities in growing the Internet.

Coverage

This is a fully funded fellowship. It covers a round-trip air ticket to one assigned peering event, hotel accommodation for the duration of the event (4-7 days), and a fixed stipend for additional needs during the event.

Eligibility

Ethiopian students/professionals are eligible as Ethiopia is in Africa and is a Least Developed Country (LDC). Applicants must be based or living in Africa, Asia-Pacific (APAC), Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC), or the Middle East regions. Participants from Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS) are particularly encouraged to apply. Candidates should have at least three years of experience and be interested in how the internet connects globally, and wish to grow in technical and policy spaces related to internet infrastructure.

Requirements

Applicants are expected to be professionals in the field of internet peering and interconnection. No specific academic level (e.g., Bachelor's, Master's) is mentioned, but professional experience is required. No specific documents are listed beyond the application itself.

How to apply

Applications must be submitted online through the official Internet Society website. The link to the application portal is available on the official fellowship page.

Notes

The fellowship is a six-month program, with fellows attending one in-person event lasting 4-7 days. The in-person events for 2026 will take place in Kigali, Rwanda (for African residents), Mendoza, Argentina (for LAC residents), and Osaka, Japan (for APAC residents). An event for Middle East residents is yet to be confirmed. The program focuses on understanding Internet Exchange Points (IXPs), global internet connectivity, and networking with industry leaders. The deadline for applications is May 17, 2026.

Source & Verification

Host organization: Internet Society

Original source: OpportunitiesCorners

Official application page: https://www.internetsociety.org/fellowships/peering/

Verify the deadline, eligibility, and document list on the official website before applying.

How to Apply

1

Read the full requirements

Visit the official application page and read all eligibility criteria carefully before investing time in the application.
2

Gather your documents

Collect transcripts, certificates, and references. Official copies may require apostille — start this process early.
3

Request recommendation letters

Contact your referees at least 4–6 weeks before the deadline. Brief them on the scholarship and your goals.
4

Write your motivation letter

Be specific about your goals, why you chose this program, and your plan to contribute to Ethiopia after completing your studies.
5

Proofread and submit early

Submit at least 3–5 days before the deadline. Technical issues are common — never submit on the last day.