Practical information
Where is Bergen, how do you get here and what can you expect?
The University of Bergen (黑料吃瓜资源) is located in the heart of Bergen, Norway鈥檚 second-largest city. With seven faculties and over 20,000 students, 黑料吃瓜资源 is a leading research university known for its academic excellence, international outlook and diversity. More than 4,200 faculty and staff contribute to its vibrant academic community.
黑料吃瓜资源 is proud to be Norway鈥檚 most cited university. PhD candidates are employed and receive a salary, making doctoral studies here especially attractive to emerging scholars. Around half of 黑料吃瓜资源鈥檚 PhD graduates come from outside Norway.
The university has three strategic areas:聽
Through these, 黑料吃瓜资源 contributes to society with cutting-edge research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and innovation.
Application
Who can apply?
BSRS is open to:
- PhD candidates currently enrolled in a doctoral programme
- Junior researchers, including advanced master鈥檚 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.
What鈥檚 expected?
BSRS offers a full schedule of academic and social activities. You鈥檒l participate in:
- One of five parallel courses
- Joint workshops on systems thinking and creative problem-solving
- Keynote lectures and plenary sessions
Before arrival, you鈥檒l 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鈥20 pages) must be submitted after the summer school.
Social events and guided hikes in Bergen鈥檚 surrounding mountains are also part of the experience.
How to apply?
The application process has two steps:
- Submit your application to BSRS
- Register your application in the University of Bergen鈥檚 system
Only applications completed through both steps will be considered.
Application deadline
The deadline to apply is 1 February 2026.
Cost of participation
There is no application fee and participation in BSRS is free.
Required documents
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
Scholarships
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.
Notification of acceptance
You will be notified of your acceptance by mid March 2026 via email.
ECTS credits
Once accepted, you will be asked to submit a short essay (2鈥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鈥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.
Traveling to Bergen
Where is Bergen?
Bergen is located on Norway鈥檚 western coast, facing the North Sea. With 270,000 residents, it鈥檚 a vibrant city known for its scenic beauty, student life, and cultural scene. Summer temperatures range from 12鈥25掳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 .
Booking travel
You are responsible for booking your own travel. If awarded a scholarship, funds will be transferred by late June 2026.
Visa information
Norway is part of the Schengen Area:
- EU/EEA citizens: No visa required
- Visa-exempt countries:
- All others: Must apply for a Schengen visa to Norway
Insurance requirements
- EU/EEA residents: Bring your European Health Insurance Card
- Non-EU/EEA residents: Must have full travel insurance, including health coverage
Getting from the airport
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鈥檇 like to receive one.
While in Bergen
The venue
BSRS takes place at the Faculty of Law, University of Bergen.
- Address: Magnus Lagab酶tes Plass 1, Bergen
- From Bergen Hostel Montana, take bus no. 12 to 鈥淔estplassen鈥 and walk 10 minutes to the venue.
Accommodation
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鈥擩une is a popular time to visit Bergen.
Weather
Bergen is known for its rain, but summer also brings sunshine. Expect temperatures between 12鈥25掳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
Weekend activities
Midway through the summer school, you鈥檒l have time to explore Norway鈥檚 natural beauty. Options include:
- Guided hikes and city walks
- Barbecue dinner
- Independent travel to fjords and mountains (e.g., Norway in a Nutshell tour)
Cost of living
Norway has a high cost of living. Be prepared for elevated prices on transport, food, and accommodation.
Currency: Norwegian Kroner (NOK) 鈥 check current exchange rates.
Meals
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鈥檚 many restaurants and caf茅s