New gTLD Applicant Guidebook

Your complete guide to preparing and submitting a successful new gTLD application

Understanding the Applicant Guidebook

The Applicant Guidebook (AGB) is the definitive resource for anyone applying to operate a new generic top-level domain. This comprehensive document, published by ICANN, contains all the rules, requirements, and procedures for the New gTLD Program.

350+ Pages of Requirements
50 Application Questions
9 Evaluation Modules
18 Months Average Process

Guidebook Structure & Modules

The Applicant Guidebook is organized into distinct modules, each covering critical aspects of the application and evaluation process:

1 Introduction

Program overview, application lifecycle, and general information about the process.

2 Evaluation Procedures

Detailed evaluation criteria, scoring methodology, and review panels.

3 Objection Procedures

Grounds for objection, dispute resolution procedures, and timelines.

4 String Contention

Procedures for resolving competing applications for the same or similar strings.

5 Transition to Delegation

Post-approval steps including contracting and pre-delegation testing.

6 Application Submission

Technical requirements for using the TLD Application System (TAS).

Application Questions Overview

The application consists of approximately 50 questions divided into several categories:

General Questions (1-11)

Applied-for gTLD string and information
Applicant information and contact details
Legal establishment documentation
Background screening consent

Financial Questions (45-50)

Financial statements and projections
Funding and revenue model
Costs and capital expenditures
Contingency planning

Technical & Operational Questions (23-44)

Technical overview of proposed registry
SRS performance specifications
Security policy and procedures
DNSSEC implementation

Evaluation Criteria & Scoring

String Reviews

Your applied-for string will be evaluated for:

  • DNS Stability: No technical issues with the string
  • String Similarity: Not confusingly similar to existing TLDs
  • Geographic Names: Compliance with geographic requirements
  • Reserved Names: Not on prohibited or reserved lists

Applicant Reviews

Your organization will be evaluated on:

  • Technical Capability: Ability to operate registry infrastructure
  • Operational Capability: Resources and expertise to manage registry
  • Financial Capability: Financial resources for 3+ years of operation
  • Registry Services: Proposed services don't raise security/stability issues

Critical Pass/Fail Questions

Certain questions are mandatory pass requirements. Failing any of these will result in application rejection:

  • DNS infrastructure (Q35)
  • Financial capability (Q45-50)
  • Registry continuity (Q39)
  • Technical compliance (Q24-30)

Required Documentation

Legal Documents

Proof of legal establishment
Corporate governance documents
Power of attorney (if using representative)

Financial Documents

Audited financial statements
Financial projections template
Proof of funds or commitment letters

Technical Documentation

Network diagrams and architecture
Resourcing plans and staffing
Transition and failover procedures

Tips for Application Success

Best Practices

  • Start preparation at least 12 months before the application window
  • Engage experienced consultants familiar with the process
  • Conduct mock evaluations of your responses
  • Build contingency into all projections and plans
  • Ensure complete consistency across all application answers

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

  • Incomplete Responses: Every question must be fully answered
  • Inconsistent Information: Ensure alignment across all sections
  • Unrealistic Projections: Be conservative in financial planning
  • Technical Gaps: Address all mandatory technical requirements
  • Missing Documentation: Submit all required supporting documents

Response Length Guidelines

While quality matters more than quantity, typical response lengths are:

  • General questions: 1-2 pages
  • Technical questions: 5-10 pages
  • Financial questions: 2-5 pages plus attachments
  • Operational questions: 3-8 pages

Application Resources & Templates

Download helpful resources to prepare your application:

Application Checklist

Request Template

Financial Template

Request Template

Need Help with Your Application?

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Related Resources

ICANN Program Overview

Complete program guide and timeline

Technical Standards

DNS and technical requirements

Registry Agreements

Contract terms and obligations

Our Services

Full-service application support