Erasmus+ / ESoC
European opportunities for open source contributions.
Program Overview
Program Types
Erasmus+ Internships
Structured internships with European companies or organizations working on open source.
European Summer of Code (ESoC)
Community-driven alternative to GSoC in Europe.
Key Differences
| Aspect | Erasmus+ | ESoC |
|---|---|---|
| Organizer | European Commission | Community-run |
| Eligibility | EU/EEA only, age restricted | EU/EEA, more flexible |
| Duration | 2-3 months | 3-4 months |
| Stipend | Higher | Medium |
| Projects | Broader tech scope | Open source focused |
Application Timeline
Varies by program - typically:
- Applications: January-March
- Mentee Selection: April-May
- Program: June-September
Tips for Success
- Focus on European projects (GNOME, KDE, etc.)
- Learn EU work regulations and labor laws
- Consider visa/travel requirements
- Strong English communication essential
Resources
- Erasmus+: https://erasmusplus.ec.europa.eu/ (opens in a new tab)
- ESoC: European Summer of Code website
- GNOME: Major European open source project
- KDE: Another major European open source community
European programs offer good opportunities, though smaller than GSoC. Perfect if you're EU-based and want structured support.