Practical information

BSRS is open to:

• PhD candidates currently enrolled in a doctoral programme
• Junior researchers, including advanced master’s students with relevant experience, recent PhD graduates, and postdoctoral fellows

All applicants must have a strong command of English, as it is the language of instruction.

BSRS offers a full schedule of academic and social activities. You’ll participate in:

• One of five parallel courses
• Joint workshops on systems thinking and creative problem-solving
• Keynote lectures and plenary sessions

Before arrival, you’ll submit a two-page paper based on a topic set by your course leader (required for 5 ECTS). If you aim to earn 10 ECTS, a longer paper (10–20 pages) must be submitted after the summer school.

Social events and guided hikes in Bergen’s surrounding mountains are also part of the experience.

The application process has two steps:

1. Submit your application to BSRS
2. Register your application in the University of Bergen’s system

Only applications completed through both steps will be considered.

The deadline to apply is 1 February 2026.

There is no application fee and participation in BSRS is free.

Please upload the following with your application:

• Scanned copy of your passport
• Transcript or diploma of your highest degree
• Letter of recommendation from your supervisor
• Letter confirming your qualifications and current position, signed by the head of your department/institution

A limited number of stipends are available to support participation in BSRS. These are awarded based on academic merit as demonstrated in your application, and the relevance of your research to the course objectives.

To qualify, you must be a registered PhD candidate at an accredited academic institution. 

Stipends are fixed amounts intended to help offset the cost of attending the summer school. The exact amount depends on your country of residence and will be stated in your acceptance letter. 

If awarded, funds will be transferred by the end of June 2026.

• Full stipend: Covers airfare and accommodation
• Partial stipend: Covers accommodation at Bergen Hostel Montana

You are responsible for arranging and paying for your own travel, insurance, and visa. 

You will be notified of your acceptance by mid March 2026 via email.

Once accepted, you will be asked to submit a short essay (2–4 pages) based on your own research, responding to a question set by your course leader. This essay will form the basis for presenting your work to the fellow participants.

You will be credited by the University of Bergen under the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS):

• 10 ECTS: Requires submission of a publishable manuscript (10–20 pages) after the completion of the research school. The deadline is set by your course leader.
• 5 ECTS: Granted for full participation without submitting the final manuscript.

Bergen is located on Norway’s western coast, facing the North Sea. With 270,000 residents, it’s a vibrant city known for its scenic beauty, student life, and cultural scene. Summer temperatures range from 12–25°C, so pack for both sunshine and rain.

The city is easily accessible via:

• Direct flights from major European cities
• Train from Oslo
• Ferry from Hirtshals, Denmark

For practical travel tips, check out Visit Norway.

You are responsible for booking your own travel. If awarded a scholarship, funds will be transferred by late June 2026.

Norway is part of the Schengen Area:

• EU/EEA citizens: No visa required
• Visa-exempt countries: See official list
• All others: Must apply for a Schengen visa to Norway

• EU/EEA residents: Bring your European Health Insurance Card
• Non-EU/EEA residents: Must have full travel insurance, including health coverage

Bergen Airport is connected to the city by:

• Light rail (Bybanen)
• Express buses

Tickets can be purchased at vending machines or via the Skyss app. All participants will receive a Bergen zone travel pass valid for local buses and light rail during the summer school. Indicate in your application if you’d like to receive one.

BSRS takes place at the Faculty of Law, University of Bergen. 

• Address: Magnus Lagabøtes Plass 1, Bergen
• From Bergen Hostel Montana, take bus no. 12 to “Festplassen” and walk 10 minutes to the venue.

We recommend staying at Bergen Hostel Montana, located at the foot of Mount Ulriken. You can reserve a room at a discounted rate during registration. Payment is due upon accepting your offer to attend BSRS.

Rooms include:

• Shared occupancy (2 people) with private bathroom
• Towels and linens
• Access to a shared kitchen and laundry facilities

You may also arrange your own accommodation, but book early—June is a popular time to visit Bergen.

Bergen is known for its rain, but summer also brings sunshine. Expect temperatures between 12–25°C. 

If you plan to spend time in the mountains, you need to bring:

• Rain jacket and waterproof pants
• Warm layers and hiking shoes/boots

Midway through the summer school, you’ll have time to explore Norway’s natural beauty. Options include:

• Guided hikes and city walks
• Barbecue dinner
• Independent travel to fjords and mountains (e.g., Norway in a Nutshell tour)

Norway has a high cost of living. Be prepared for elevated prices on transport, food, and accommodation. 

Currency: Norwegian Kroner (NOK) — check current exchange rates.

Lunch and coffee/tea are provided on working days. Some social events include light meals. For other meals:

• Cook together at the hostel
• Explore Bergen’s many restaurants and cafés