# Mentorship Program: How It Works

The mentorship program helps you build skills and contribute to open source projects in a structured way. Here’s what you can expect at each stage of the program.

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### 1. Application Process

* **Apply to Projects:** Submit your application through your Linux Foundation account for the projects you are interested in.
* **Initial Review:** Your application will be reviewed over at least two weeks.
* **Complete Prerequisites:** Be sure to finish all prerequisite tasks during the review period. Applications without completed prerequisites will not be accepted.
* **Check Application Status:** You can monitor your application’s progress in your account dashboard.

*Need help applying? See \[*[*How to Apply*](https://docs.linuxfoundation.org/lfx/mentorship/mentee-guide/how-to-apply)*].*

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### 2. Selection and Onboarding

* **Notification of Results:** If you are chosen, you will receive a notification by email or a phone call.
* **Onboarding Steps:** You will be required to complete a contract and follow HR steps to officially join the program.

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### 3. Participation and Learning

* **Begin Your Journey:** Work closely with your mentor on the project plan and learn about open source collaboration.
* **Practical Involvement:**
  * Make your first contributions by handling a few starter tasks, such as documentation edits.
  * Gradually take on more responsibility as you progress.
* **Active Community Role:** Attend meetings, take part in discussions, and contribute to achieving project milestones and goals.

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### 4. Regular Assessments

* **Scheduled Evaluations:** Mentors will check your progress at several points during the program (usually three or four times).
* **Evaluation Focus:**
  * Completion of tasks and milestones
  * Engagement with your mentor and the wider community
  * Steady progress according to your project plan

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### 5. Stipend Information

* **Payment Timeline:** You may receive stipends after completing your second and final evaluations.
* **Eligibility:** Payments depend on satisfactory progress and completion of objectives.
* **Amount:** The stipend amount varies depending on the specific project.

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### 6. Program Completion

* **Finish All Tasks:** complete all milestones, assigned tasks, and any required exams.
* **Submit Feedback:** Fill out a feedback survey at the end of the program.
* **Receive Your Certificate:** After meeting all the requirements, you will receive a digital Letter of Completion.

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*Take the first step towards your open source future with the mentorship program!*