First Timer

COSCUP is an annual open source conference organized by open source communities and staff. Since 2020, COSCUP has removed registration and ticket requirements so more people can participate freely. This also lets the spirit of open source extend from code to design, policy, education, community operation, open data, open culture, and many other fields.

If this is your first time at COSCUP, the most important preparation is not filling every time slot with Sessions. It is understanding how the event works: many Session Tracks, Community Booths, BoFs, Hacking Corner activities, and attendee services happen at the same time. You can move between Sessions, Booths, community conversations, and short breaks based on your interests and energy level.

At the opening, the coordinator will explain how COSCUP works and highlight important notes for this year.

Before the Event

Before the event, we recommend that you:

  1. Browse the official schedule and bookmark a few Sessions you definitely want to attend.
  2. Install or check the OPass App so you can view Sessions, bookmark activities, and join In-Person interactions.
  3. Confirm your transportation and accommodation, and leave enough time to enter campus and find classrooms.
  4. Prepare business cards, stickers, a community introduction, or links to personal projects so you can exchange information with new people.
  5. If you are coming to Taiwan from overseas, read For Overseas Visitors first to check visas, entry requirements, internet access, payments, and transportation cards.

Planning Your First Day

For a first COSCUP, a good approach is to plan a few fixed items and leave plenty of flexible time.

  • Opening or Prime Session: understand this year's conference theme and community atmosphere.
  • One or two topic Sessions: choose areas you already know or want to start learning.
  • Community Booths: talk directly with community members. This is often an easier entry point than only listening to Sessions.
  • Hacking Corner or BoF: useful if you want to discuss ideas, exchange experience, or start an informal gathering.
  • Attendee services: keep time for rest, meals, hydration, and walking around. You do not need to overpack your schedule.

Participation Mindset

COSCUP is built by the community, for the community. The venue includes speakers and listeners, but also Session Track Hosts, Community Booth partners, staff, sponsors, One Day Volunteers, overseas communities, and other first-time attendees. You do not need a specific job title or background to participate. If you are willing to communicate, ask questions, share, or help, you can find your place here.

If you do not know where to start, visit the Community Booths and ask:

  • What does this community usually do?
  • How can beginners get involved?
  • Do you have regular meetups, online discussion channels, or onboarding documents?
  • Are there any Sessions or activities you recommend today?

After the Event

After the event, you can organize the people, communities, and projects you encountered over the two days:

  • Follow up with new contacts from business cards, community platforms, or messaging apps.
  • Join community channels or mailing lists that interest you.
  • Review bookmarked Sessions and notes, and catch up on missed recordings or slides. You can check the COSCUP YouTube channel.
  • Fill out the attendee survey so the conference can understand what worked and what needs improvement.
  • If you want to get more involved, watch for One Day Volunteers tasks, next year's staff recruitment, Community Session Track information, and Community Booth information.