India ICANN85 Fellowship Program 2026 (Fully Funded)

Introduction

The India ICANN85 Fellowship Program 2026 (Fully Funded) is an extraordinary opportunity for young leaders, researchers, activists, and professionals passionate about shaping the future of the internet. ICANN (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers) is the global body that ensures the internet runs smoothly, securely, and in a unified way.

For many people across the globe, the biggest obstacle to participating in such events is the high cost of travel, accommodation, and registration fees. That’s where the India ICANN85 Fellowship Program 2026 (Fully Funded) steps in—it covers all the major expenses, making it possible for diverse voices from around the world to join the conversation on internet governance.

By winning this fellowship, you’ll not only travel to India for the 85th ICANN Public Meeting in 2026, but you’ll also gain global exposure, networking opportunities, mentorship, and a chance to directly influence digital policies that impact billions of internet users.

Degree Level

India ICANN85 Fellowship Program 2026 (Fully Funded) is available to undertake Fellowship level programs at India Universities.

Available Subjects

Following subjects are available to study under this scholarship program.

• Internet Governance
• Domain Name Systems
• Global Digital Policy

Why the India ICANN85 Fellowship Program 2026 (Fully Funded) Matters

The India ICANN85 Fellowship Program 2026 (Fully Funded) is not just another fully funded fellowship; it’s a career-transforming program that places you at the heart of internet governance, policy-making, and digital inclusion.

Here’s why it matters so much:

• It gives underrepresented voices—especially from developing countries—a seat at the global table.
• It provides financial support (airfare, visa, accommodation, and stipends) to ensure no one is excluded due to money.
• It connects fellows with internet leaders, policy-makers, and tech experts.
• It prepares the next generation of digital policy advocates.

This is why the India ICANN85 Fellowship Program 2026 (Fully Funded) is seen as a life-changing gateway to influence how the internet evolves.

Benefits of the India ICANN85 Fellowship Program 2026 (Fully Funded)

Winning the India ICANN85 Fellowship Program 2026 (Fully Funded) brings a wide range of advantages.

1. Full Financial Coverage

• Round-trip airfare to India.
• Accommodation during the ICANN85 meeting.
• Daily stipend to cover meals and local expenses.
• Visa support and health insurance (if required).

2. Professional Development

• Mentorship from experienced ICANN community leaders.
• Hands-on workshops in internet governance.
• Training in leadership, policy writing, and advocacy.

3. Networking Opportunities

• Access to global internet experts and policy-makers.
• Engagement with civil society, governments, and private-sector representatives.
• Long-term inclusion in ICANN’s global alumni network.

4. Career Growth

• Improved chances of leadership roles in tech, NGOs, and governance organizations.
• Recognition as a global internet leader.
• Pathways to join working groups and contribute directly to ICANN’s policymaking.

Eligibility Criteria for the India ICANN85 Fellowship Program 2026 (Fully Funded)

The India ICANN85 Fellowship Program 2026 (Fully Funded) is open to participants worldwide. However, ICANN looks for specific qualities in applicants.

1. Basic Requirements

• Must be 18 years or older at the time of application.
• Able to attend the entire ICANN85 Public Meeting in India (in person).
• No prior participation in more than two ICANN Fellowships.

2. Background Considerations

• Active involvement in internet governance, civil society, technology, policy-making, or academic research.
• Interest in areas like cybersecurity, DNS management, online privacy, and digital inclusion.
• Demonstrated leadership in community, national, or international internet-related initiatives.

3. Language

• Applicants must have a good command of English, as it’s the main working language of ICANN.

Application Process for the India ICANN85 Fellowship Program 2026 (Fully Funded)

The application for the India ICANN85 Fellowship Program 2026 (Fully Funded) is competitive. Here’s how to maximize your chances:

Step 1: Create an ICANN Account

Register on the ICANN Fellowship Program Portal.

Step 2: Prepare Your Documents

• Resume/CV.
• Statement of Interest (why you want to join ICANN).
• Proof of community involvement in internet governance.
• Recommendation letter (optional but helpful).

Step 3: Submit Online

Complete the application form before the deadline (typically 8–10 months before the event).

Step 4: Selection

Applications are reviewed by ICANN’s Fellowship Selection Committee. Only the most committed and diverse candidates are chosen.

Step 5: Notification

Selected fellows receive acceptance letters and guidance on next steps (including visa processing).

Application Procedure

1. Visit the official ICANN Fellowship Program page: https://www.icann.org
2. Review the eligibility criteria and program expectations
3. Complete the online application form before 22 August 2025
4. Submit all required documentation and statements of interest

Tips to Win the India ICANN85 Fellowship Program 2026 (Fully Funded)

Getting selected isn’t just about applying; it’s about standing out. Here’s how:

• Show your impact: Highlight specific projects you’ve led or contributed to.
• Prove commitment: Show long-term dedication to internet governance.
• Be clear: Your statement of interest should be concise and powerful.
• Highlight diversity: If you represent a marginalized or underrepresented group, mention it.
• Stay professional: Grammar, clarity, and passion matter in your application.

Pain Points Applicants Face and Solutions Provided by the Fellowship

1. High Travel Costs

Solution: The fellowship is fully funded—you won’t spend a cent on flights or hotels.

2. Lack of Exposure to Global Policy

Solution: ICANN provides direct access to international leaders and real-world policy discussions.

3. Fear of Rejection Due to Inexperience

Solution: ICANN welcomes new voices; even if you’re young, passion and commitment matter more than years of experience.

Living and Networking in India During ICANN85

Attending the India ICANN85 Fellowship Program 2026 (Fully Funded) means experiencing both professional growth and cultural immersion.

• India is a digital innovation hub with booming internet policies and startups.
• Fellows can explore India’s rich culture, food, and heritage while attending workshops.
• The meeting itself is a melting pot of global perspectives—a once-in-a-lifetime chance to network.

Comparison with Other Internet Governance Fellowships

Clearly, the India ICANN85 Fellowship Program 2026 (Fully Funded) is the most comprehensive program for global internet leadership.

FAQs on the India ICANN85 Fellowship Program 2026 (Fully Funded)

1. Who can apply for the India ICANN85 Fellowship Program 2026 (Fully Funded)?

Anyone over 18 with a passion for internet governance, from any country.

2. What does the fellowship cover?

Flights, accommodation, daily stipend, visa, and training.

3. How competitive is the selection?

Highly competitive. Hundreds apply, but only a limited number are selected.

4. Do I need technical experience?

Not necessarily—policy advocates, researchers, and civil society members are also welcome.

5. When is the deadline?

Deadlines are usually announced on the ICANN Fellowship Portal. Apply early to increase your chances.

Conclusion

The India ICANN85 Fellowship Program 2026 (Fully Funded) is more than just a fellowship—it’s a life-changing gateway into the heart of internet governance. With full funding, mentorship, and global networking, this program equips you with the tools to become a digital policy leader in your community and beyond.

If you’re passionate about the future of the internet and want to contribute to policies that affect billions worldwide, don’t miss this chance.

👉 Apply now via the ICANN Official Fellowship Portal.