About the Fellowship
The Peering Fellowship is a six-month learning program created to support internet professionals who want to improve internet connectivity in their countries. It helps participants understand how internet networks connect, share traffic, and work together to make internet access cheaper, faster, and more reliable. The fellowship includes online learning sessions, teamwork activities, and participation in an international peering event. Fellows also learn about internet exchange points, routing systems, and digital policy. The program is designed for people who already work in internet infrastructure and want to improve their technical and leadership skills. It also encourages participants to create real improvements in their local internet systems. The goal is to build a stronger global internet community and support better digital access in developing regions.
Fellowship Details
- Host Country: Depends on regional peering event (Rwanda / Argentina / Japan / Middle East)
- Host Organization: Internet Society
- Fellowship Name: Peering Fellowship
- Study Level: Professional / Training Fellowship
- Gender: All genders
- English Language Certificate: Not required (basic English needed)
- Application Deadline: 17 May 2026
- Type: Fully funded professional fellowship
Eligible Duration
- Program Duration: 6 months (online + training)
- In-person Event: 4–5 days regional peering conference
- Weekly Commitment: 4–6 hours per week
Fields of Interest
- Internet Networking
- Network Engineering
- Internet Infrastructure
- ICT Policy
- Telecommunications
- Digital Development
- Cyber Infrastructure
Bachelor Level Fields
- Computer Science
- Information Technology
- Networking and Telecom
- Software Engineering
- Cyber Security Basics
Master Level Fields
- Computer Networks
- Information Systems
- Telecommunications Engineering
- Data Communication
- Cyber Security
- ICT Policy and Governance
PhD Level Fields
- Internet Infrastructure Research
- Network Engineering
- Digital Economy
- ICT Development Policy
- Advanced Telecommunications Systems
Fellowship Benefits
- Full online training program
- Participation in international peering event
- Travel support for selected event
- Hotel accommodation during event
- Networking with global experts
- Professional skill development
- Certificate of completion
What is NOT Included
- Visa fee support
- Personal travel expenses outside program
- Family support
- Salary or monthly stipend
- Equipment purchase costs
Eligibility Criteria
- Must live in eligible regions (Africa, Asia-Pacific, LAC, Middle East)
- Minimum 3 years experience in internet or networking field
- Basic English communication skills
- Able to attend online sessions regularly
- Able to travel for regional event
- Must not be previous fellowship recipient
Not Eligible Applicants
- Beginners with no internet infrastructure experience
- Applicants without English understanding
- People unable to travel for events
- Previous Internet Society fellows (recent years)
- Applicants without technical background
Required Documents
- CV / Resume
- Motivation statement
- Proof of work experience
- National ID or passport
- Recommendation letter (if required)
- Online application form
How to Win This Fellowship
- Show strong experience in networking or ICT
- Write a clear motivation statement
- Highlight real projects or achievements
- Demonstrate leadership skills
- Show interest in internet development
- Match your goals with Internet Society mission
Living Cost Table
| Country | Estimated Daily Cost | Accommodation | Transport |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rwanda | Medium | Paid by program | Covered |
| Argentina | Medium | Paid by program | Covered |
| Japan | High | Paid by program | Covered |
| Middle East | Medium | Paid by program | Covered |
How to Apply
- Visit official Internet Society website
- Create an online account
- Fill application form carefully
- Upload CV and documents
- Submit before deadline
- Wait for selection results
FAQ
What is the Peering Fellowship?
It is a 6-month training program for internet professionals to improve networking skills.
Is IELTS required?
No, only basic English is needed.
Is it fully funded?
Yes, travel and accommodation for events are covered.
Who can apply?
People with internet infrastructure or networking experience.
How long is the program?
Six months with online and in-person training.
Apply Now
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For more information about the Peering Fellowship, please visit the official Internet Society website