INSAIT SURF 2026 | Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship in AI & Computer Science

The Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) at the Institute for Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence and Technology (INSAIT) is a fully funded, intensive summer research programme in AI, computing, and related STEM fields for motivated undergraduate students from around the world. It takes place at INSAIT’s campus in Sofia, Bulgaria, and is designed to give participants hands-on experience with cutting-edge research alongside faculty and researchers.

About the SURF Programme

INSAIT’s SURF programme is modeled after prestigious summer research initiatives at institutions like MIT, Caltech, and ETH Zurich. Participants contribute directly to ongoing research projects in areas such as machine learning, computer vision, ethical AI, quantum computing, and more, and may have the opportunity to co-author academic papers under supervision.

The programme is now in its fourth edition and has attracted applicants from over 150 countries due to its strong academic focus and immersive environment.

Key Features & Benefits

 Programme Type: Full-time, in-person research fellowship in Sofia, Bulgaria
 Duration: 8–12 weeks during the summer months (typically June–August)
 Target Group: Undergraduate students enrolled in STEM majors such as computer science, mathematics, physics, or engineering

Financial Support Includes:

• Monthly stipend (€1,500) to support living expenses
• Accommodation arranged and covered by INSAIT
• Travel expenses to/from Sofia reimbursed
• Visa and administrative assistance provided
• Social activities and community events to enhance the programme experience

This level of support is designed to allow students to focus entirely on research without financial burden.

Who Can Apply

The SURF programme is open to highly motivated undergraduate students from accredited universities worldwide, with eligibility generally including:

• Active enrollment in a Bachelor’s degree programme in a relevant STEM field
• A strong academic record, often exemplified by a competitive GPA
• A genuine interest in AI and computing research

  Applicants from communities traditionally underrepresented in STEM are especially encouraged to apply.

What You’ll Do

Selected fellows are paired with INSAIT faculty mentors and work on real research challenges, contributing to live projects rather than hypothetical exercises. Throughout the programme, students are typically expected to:

• Collaborate closely with mentors and research groups
• Develop a project plan aligned with research goals
• Produce a final research report structured like a conference paper
• Present findings in seminars or group sessions at the institute
• This hands-on approach helps students build both technical skills and academic research experience.

Application & Timeline (Typical)

While specific dates can vary by year, the SURF application cycle generally follows this pattern for the summer session:

• Applications open: early in the year
• Deadline for submissions: usually in March
• Interviews for shortlisted candidates: later in March
• Final selections announced: by late March or early April
• Project planning and mentoring period: April–May
• Summer research period: June–August

Why It Matters

The SURF programme is an excellent stepping stone for students who aspire to graduate study, research careers, or advanced technical roles in AI and computing. By working alongside world-class researchers in an immersive environment, participants gain:

• Practical research experience and mentorship
• Expanded academic networks
• Opportunities to contribute to high-impact publications
• A competitive edge for future academic or industry paths