Deadline: 08-Mar-2026
The INSAIT Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) Program is a fully funded, in-person research opportunity for high-achieving undergraduate STEM students worldwide. The program offers hands-on research experience in computer science and AI under faculty mentorship in Sofia, Bulgaria, with a stipend, accommodation, and travel support provided.
Program Overview
The Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) Program at INSAIT provides motivated undergraduate students with the opportunity to conduct advanced research during the summer under the direct mentorship of INSAIT faculty.
Modeled after leading summer research programs at institutions such as MIT, Caltech, and ETH Zurich, SURF emphasizes active participation in ongoing research projects and offers selected students the chance to contribute to publishable research in top-tier computer science and artificial intelligence conferences.
The program is conducted fully in person at INSAIT’s campus in Sofia, Bulgaria, and does not allow remote participation.
Key Program Features
The SURF Program is designed to offer an immersive research experience through:
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Close mentorship by INSAIT faculty members
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Active contribution to ongoing research group projects
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Exposure to high-impact research in computer science and AI
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Opportunities to co-author academic papers
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Participation in institute-wide research seminars
Program Duration and Location
The fellowship runs for a period of 8 to 12 weeks during the summer.
Key details include:
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Minimum duration: 8 weeks
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Maximum duration: 12 weeks
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Exact duration decided jointly by the student and mentor
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Mandatory physical presence in Sofia, Bulgaria
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Summer research period: June 1 to August 31, 2026
Funding and Financial Support
The SURF Program is fully funded and designed to remove financial barriers for participants.
Selected fellows receive:
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Monthly stipend of EUR 1,500 to cover living expenses
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Fully covered accommodation arranged by INSAIT
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Travel cost support
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Visa application support, where required
This funding structure ensures students can fully focus on research activities throughout the program.
Who Is Eligible to Apply?
The SURF Program is open to undergraduate students from around the world who meet the following criteria:
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Currently enrolled in an accredited Bachelor’s degree program
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Studying in a STEM field such as computer science, mathematics, physics, or engineering
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Minimum GPA of 3.5 out of 4.0 or equivalent
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Strong academic performance and motivation for research
Applications from individuals belonging to communities underrepresented in STEM are strongly encouraged.
Why This Program Matters
The INSAIT SURF Program plays a critical role in early research training by:
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Providing undergraduates with real-world research experience
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Preparing students for graduate studies and research careers
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Supporting diversity and inclusion in STEM research
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Connecting students with international research networks
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Enabling contributions to cutting-edge AI and computer science research
Application Timeline
The application and selection process follows a clearly defined timeline:
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Application deadline: March 8, 2026
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Application review and shortlisting: March 2026
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Online interviews for shortlisted candidates: March 2026
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Final selection announcements: March 31, 2026
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Project coordination with mentors: April–May 2026
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Research period: June 1 to August 31, 2026
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the official online application platform.
Applicants are required to prepare and submit:
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A current CV
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An unofficial academic transcript
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A one-page motivation letter outlining:
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Interest in the SURF Program
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Preferred research areas
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Relevant skills or prior research experience
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Incomplete applications or submissions after the deadline will not be considered.
How the Program Works
Once selected, fellows will:
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Coordinate with their assigned mentor to define a research project
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Prepare a project plan at the start of the program
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Conduct research as part of an active research group
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Participate in seminars and academic discussions
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Produce a final research report structured as a conference paper
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Deliver a final presentation during INSAIT’s seminar series
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Applicants should avoid the following common issues:
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Submitting a generic motivation letter without research focus
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Ignoring eligibility or GPA requirements
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Missing required documents
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Applying without clear interest in research
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Assuming remote participation is allowed
Careful preparation and alignment with INSAIT’s research areas can significantly strengthen an application.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the SURF Program fully funded?
Yes. The program provides a monthly stipend, accommodation, travel support, and visa assistance.
Can students participate remotely?
No. All participants must be physically present in Sofia, Bulgaria, for at least eight weeks.
Who can apply for the SURF Program?
Undergraduate students enrolled in accredited STEM Bachelor’s programs with a strong academic record are eligible.
What research areas are supported?
The program focuses primarily on computer science, artificial intelligence, mathematics, physics, and related engineering fields.
What is the minimum GPA requirement?
Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.5 out of 4.0 or an equivalent grading scale.
When are final results announced?
Final selections are announced on March 31, 2026.
What is expected at the end of the program?
Participants must submit a final research report formatted as a conference paper and present their work at an INSAIT seminar.
Conclusion
The INSAIT Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) Program offers a prestigious, fully funded opportunity for undergraduate students to gain hands-on research experience in computer science and AI. By combining intensive mentorship, real-world research contributions, and strong institutional support, the program serves as an ideal pathway for students aiming to pursue advanced research careers in STEM.
For more information, visit INSAIT.