Last Updated: October 2026
The prioritization draw is the process ICANN uses to assign a Priority Number to each gTLD application. This number determines the general order in which:
- Strings move through Temporary Delegation;
- Applications move through contention resolution;
- Applications move through Applicant Evaluation and Application Evaluation and receive the respective evaluation results; and
- Applications, If successful, proceed toward contracting with ICANN.
The 2026 Round prioritization draw will be conducted as a virtual event; however, applicants that elect to participate must purchase a physical ticket in-person at the cost of US$100 for each participating application. Applicants may use an authorized representative or proxy to purchase tickets on their behalf. ICANN will provide a list of available proxies applicants can choose to work with, or applicants may find their own.
The in-person ticket-purchase requirement does not relate to attendance at the draw itself and is intended to address applicable legal requirements.
ICANN will provide applicants with advance notice of the draw date and detailed instructions regarding ticket purchase, payment, proxy contact information, and how to follow the draw virtually.