I want to participate at GSOC 2008, but I am not a student

[AlexLab]

I am interested in participating at GSOC 2008, but I am not a student already. I am finished my Institute a couple of years ago and is currently I am working as an indpendent developer (something like a freelancer).

Is this program is applicable to me? Can I take part in the GSOC 2008?

[mmaison]

According to the FAQs of the program :

In order to participate in the program, you must be a student. Google defines a student as an individual enrolled in or accepted into an accredited institution including (but not necessarily limited to) colleges, universities, masters programs, PhD programs and undergraduate programs.

So if you finished your studies a few years ago, you don't seem to be eligible to participate as a student

There are no such restrictions to become a mentor so maybe you should have a look at this : http://forum.joomla.org/viewtopic.php?f=527&t=271304

[giogio123456]

Which are countries allowed to partecipate? ive heard that only few countries can partecipate...

[mmaison]

I don't know who told you that, but it's pretty false.
Here are the official FAQ : http://code.google.com/opensource/gsoc/2008/faqs.html
In the Eligibility part of the FAQ you will be able to see the restrictions.

If you were planning to participate this year, it is now to late as the program already started a few weeks ago.
You can check anyway if you are eligible and apply next year !

Regards