Google Summer of Code 2008

Google summer of Code is on! Google will be accepting applications through March 12, 2008.

What is Google Sumer of Code? Here’s Google’s definition according to their website.

Google Summer of Code (GSoC) is a program that offers student developers stipends to write code for various open source projects. Google will be working with a several open source, free software, and technology-related groups to identify and fund several projects over a three month period. Historically, the program has brought together over 1,500 students with over 130 open source projects to create millions of lines of code.

If you are into software development and you get a kick out of developing open source applications, this is a good way to spend summer.   Guess what, you get a stipend (ie. money doing what you want).  How much you may ask?  Google will provide a stipend of 5000 USD per accepted student developer.   Out of the USD5k,  USD4.5k goes to the student and  $500  goes to the mentoring organization.   Think of it as a summer job but you get to work at your own time and in the conforts of your home.

If you want to know more, the FAQ is here.

Signup here.