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Open source communities and organizations have designed programs to welcome newcomers with diverse skill sets—coding, documentation, advocacy, and more. These initiatives guide you step-by-step, helping you build real-world experience without feeling overwhelmed. In this article, we explore top programs you can join to start your open source journey today.
ProgramDurationFocusStipend / Rewards
Google Summer of CodeSummer (3 months)Coding projectsVaries by country
Season of Docs3–6 monthsTechnical writingStipend varies
HacktoberfestOctober (1 month)Any code contributionsSwag & prizes
MLH Fellowship12 weeksSoftware engineeringUp to $5,000 USD
Outreachy3 monthsDiverse contributors$6,000–$7,000 USD

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Google Summer of Code (GSoC)

Google Summer of Code is a global program that pairs aspiring developers with open source organizations. Accepted participants work on real-world coding projects, collaborating with mentors and earning a stipend upon successful completion.
Application windows and stipend amounts vary each year. Check the official GSoC website for deadlines and detailed program rules.
The image is a diagram titled "Open Source Program for Beginners," showing a process involving proposing a project against an open source project, with completion in summer and potential monetary reward. It includes a sun icon with code symbols and a color palette on the left.
How to apply:
  1. Browse participating organizations and their project ideas.
  2. Write a strong proposal detailing your approach.
  3. Submit before the deadline and wait for mentor feedback.

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Season of Docs

Season of Docs connects technical writers with open source communities to create or enhance project documentation. This program highlights the critical role of clear docs in user adoption and developer onboarding.
The image is a promotional graphic for "Season of Docs," highlighting goals such as raising awareness, focusing on documents, technical writing, and solving problems. It includes icons and a color palette on the left side.
Ideal for technical writers and content strategists. No coding experience required—bring your documentation expertise!
Key steps:
  • Identify project documentation needs.
  • Collaborate with project maintainers.
  • Deliver polished guides, tutorials, or reference materials.

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Hacktoberfest

Every October, Hacktoberfest encourages developers of all levels to contribute to open source. Submit pull requests to any GitHub-hosted repository, and once your contributions are merged, you earn exclusive swag and digital badges.
Only accepted pull requests count toward Hacktoberfest. Ensure your PRs follow each project’s contribution guidelines.
How to participate:
  1. Register on the official Hacktoberfest site.
  2. Find issues labeled hacktoberfest.
  3. Open pull requests and engage with maintainers.

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MLH Fellowship

The MLH Fellowship offers a 12-week, remote alternative to traditional internships. Fellows join open source projects that power modern infrastructure, gaining mentorship and a stipend of up to $5,000 USD.
The image is an advertisement for the MLH Fellowship, a 12-week internship for aspiring software engineers, offering up to $5,000 USD for contributing to selected projects.
Program highlights:
  • Multiple cohorts throughout the year
  • Collaborative team-based projects
  • Professional mentorship and networking

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Outreachy

Outreachy provides paid, remote internships for underrepresented groups in tech. Over a three-month period, interns contribute to open source projects, receive mentorship, and earn a stipend of $6,000–$7,000 USD.
The image is a promotional graphic for Outreachy, highlighting a 3-month paid internship for underrepresented groups, with a goal symbolized by a heart.
Why Outreachy matters:
  • Empowers diverse voices in open source
  • Focus on community building and inclusivity
  • Structured support with experienced mentors

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