---
title: "What Is Applicant Guidebook? Domain Glossary | Grit Brokerage"
description: "The rulebook for applying to run a new top-level domain through ICANN's New gTLD Program. The 2026 Round has its own updated guidebook that covers fees,..."
url: https://gritbrokerage.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/applicant-guidebook
publisher: Grit Brokerage
contact: https://gritbrokerage.preview.multisites.ai/contact
offer: https://gritbrokerage.preview.multisites.ai/inquiry
---

Industry and events

# Applicant Guidebook

The rulebook for applying to run a new top-level domain through ICANN's New gTLD Program. The 2026 Round has its own updated guidebook that covers fees, evaluation steps and objections.

## Why it matters

The Applicant Guidebook explains how an organization applies for a new extension. It covers who may apply, how the process works and how disputes are handled. The 2026 Round application window ran from April 30 to August 12, 2026. For domain investors, the guidebook shows when new extensions may launch and what rules registries must follow, such as sunrise and trademark steps. A common mistake is assuming a new extension is sure to launch. Applications can be withdrawn, contested or delayed. Wait for official delegation before spending on new-extension names.

Source: [newgtldprogram.icann.org](https://newgtldprogram.icann.org/en/application-rounds/round2/agb)

[Read nextICANN's 2026 gTLD Round: What 1,615 Applications Mean](https://gritbrokerage.preview.multisites.ai/post/icann-2026-new-gtld-round-what-it-means)

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