openSUSE @ GSoC
Flip bits, not burgers!
Google Summer of Code is a global program that offers contributors a stipend to write code for free software projects. openSUSE has participated in Google Summer of Code since 2006, helping more than 100 contributors get started with free software!
In 2026, openSUSE is once again participating as a mentoring organization. Browse our project ideas below at 101.opensuse.org/#projects and connect with a mentor to get started.
How does it work?
Check if you’re eligible for GSoC on the official Google Summer of Code website!
Select one of our mentoring projects and follow the get started instructions in the project description.
Ask questions on our mailing list, find us on Matrix, or comment directly on the GitHub issue to connect with the mentor.
Once you have found a project and mentor, write a project proposal.
Submit your project proposal on the GSoC program site during the the proposal period.
On April 30, 2026 Google will announce accepted mentee proposals.
Code the summer away.
SUCCESS!
What can I do?
Just pick one of our projects and follow the get started instructions:
Please wait for loading the projects ...
You can find a description of the different openSUSE projects on our 101 projects page.
Nothing you like? Do you have your own idea? Awesome, just get in touch with our team! Creativity and initiative are qualities we highly appreciate.
Become a Mentor!
Open source grows when experienced contributors invest in the next generation of developers. Mentoring through openSUSE is a chance to share your expertise, shape the future of projects you care about, and welcome new voices into the community.
Whether you can guide someone through a small bug fix or supervise a full GSoC project, your time makes a real difference.
Being a mentor requires your time, a clear vision of your project and good organization skills. We carefully compiled some tips, tricks and guidelines for mentoring into our mentor guidelines . Please read this for more information about being a mentor.
What It Means to Mentor a New Contributor
Here is our guide for mentors — what we think matters, our best practices, and the qualities we value.
1. Mentees First
Put the mentee’s needs first. Understand their personality, background, and circumstances. Mentoring is about helping them grow, not about filling your project’s backlog.
2. Build a Relationship
The most important goal is a relationship based on trust and respect. This does not just happen — it takes ongoing effort, especially early on. Have fun together. That is what makes this sustainable.
3. Be a Role Model
Free software development is as much about community behavior and communication as it is about code. Lead by example. Be aware that your mentee will learn habits from you — make them good ones.
4. Set Goals and Expectations
Work with your mentee to define clear, achievable goals. A solid plan provides direction and prevents the overwhelming feeling of entering a large project. You are the expert — make sure the goals are technically sound and realistic.
5. Track Progress
Set regular milestones that you review together. Short, frequent check-ins (daily if possible) build consistency and help address obstacles early. Celebrate progress along the way.
6. Use the Community
openSUSE is one of the largest and most diverse free software projects. We have structures, processes, and infrastructure built from years of experience welcoming new contributors. Make full use of this environment.
7. Be Agile
Plans change. Adapt your milestones, timeline, and approach as needed. Help your mentee learn to respond to change constructively.
8. Collaborate
You are not alone. Share your experience and challenges with other openSUSE mentors. Work together openly and transparently.
9. Want This
Mentoring takes time, effort, and patience. You will explain things that seem obvious to you more than once. If you are not sure you can commit, it is better to wait.
On the other hand — mentoring gives you the satisfaction of being a positive influence, seeing a new contributor grow, and sometimes making a friend for life.
10. Form Your Own Approach
This guide is not a rulebook. There are many great resources on mentoring out there. Read widely and develop your own style.
Okay, let’s mentor!
Add issues for your project to our repository
Label your issues with GSoC and assign yourself
When students get in touch with you in the issue, help them
Between March 16 and March 31, 2026 students have to submit a proposal for your project to the GSoC program site. Help them
On April 30, 2026 Google will announce accepted student proposals
If one of your students proposals makes the cut, GSoC starts and runs all summer!
Google Summer of Code is a very well thought out program with many roles, processes and terms. Still have questions? Check the FAQ and/or get in touch with our team!
