BI Norwegian Business School PhD Scholarship in Data Science 2026 – Fully Funded PhD in Norway

Pursuing a PhD is not just about earning a degree — it is about becoming a knowledge creator, shaping future innovations, and solving complex global problems using science, data, and critical thinking. For ambitious students who dream of conducting impactful research in data science, machine learning, and artificial intelligence, Norway offers one of the most supportive and rewarding academic environments in the world.

If you are searching for a fully funded PhD opportunity in Europe, where you are treated as a professional researcher with a competitive salary, international exposure, and long-term career prospects, this opportunity deserves your full attention. The BI Norwegian Business School PhD Scholarship in Data Science 2026 is designed for highly motivated candidates who want to work at the intersection of data, decision sciences, and real-world applications.

This prestigious doctoral position not only provides four years of full funding but also places you within a globally recognized research ecosystem. Whether your goal is academia, industry, or public-sector leadership, this scholarship can be a life-changing step forward.

Why Choose the BI Norwegian Business School PhD Scholarship?

The BI Norwegian Business School PhD Scholarship in Data Science 2026 stands out because it offers far more than financial support. It combines academic excellence, career development, and real-world impact, making it one of the most attractive PhD opportunities in Scandinavia.

Here is what makes it exceptional:

• You receive a full salary, not a stipend
• You work in cutting-edge research centres
• You gain international research exposure
• You build strong industry and public-sector connections
• You live and study in Norway, one of the world’s happiest and safest countries

This scholarship is ideal for candidates who are passionate about data-driven decision-making and want to apply advanced analytics to industries like retail, logistics, transportation, energy, and commodity markets.

Brief Description (Quick Overview Table)

Subjects Offered

The PhD specialization focuses on advanced quantitative and analytical disciplines, including:

• Data Science
• Operations Research
• Machine Learning
• Artificial Intelligence (AI)
• Optimization Techniques
• Applied Statistics
• Decision Sciences
• Computational Analytics

These subjects are taught and researched with a strong emphasis on real-world problem solving, ensuring that graduates are highly employable across academic and industrial sectors.

Degree Offered

• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Data and Decision Sciences

This internationally recognized doctoral degree equips candidates with deep theoretical knowledge, advanced research skills, and professional academic experience.

Scholarship Benefits

The BI Norwegian Business School PhD Scholarship in Data Science 2026 provides one of the most generous benefit packages available for doctoral students in Europe.

Financial Benefits

• Annual salary of NOK 572,800, adjusted according to the Norwegian State Salary Scale
• Automatic enrollment in the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund
• Salary increases over time based on national regulations

Academic & Professional Benefits

• Four years of full funding
• 25% teaching or research assistance, providing valuable professional experience
• Access to international conferences, workshops, and seminars
• Collaboration opportunities through SURE-AI and AMOR research centers

Career Development

• Strong academic supervision from leading scholars
• Exposure to industry and public-sector research projects
• Opportunities for joint research, publications, and global networking

Eligible Nationality

• Open to applicants from all countries
• Both EU/EEA and non-EU/EEA candidates are welcome to apply

This makes the scholarship highly inclusive and globally competitive.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the BI Norwegian Business School PhD Scholarship in Data Science 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:

Academic Qualifications

• A Master of Science degree with a thesis, Research Master’s, M.Phil, or equivalent
• Relevant fields include:
  • Statistics
  • Operations Research
  • Machine Learning
  • Computer Science
  • Mathematics
  • Economics
  • Finance
• Minimum grade B or equivalent
• MBA degrees are not accepted

Applicants completing their master’s degree by autumn 2026 are also eligible.

Skills & Research Interest

• Strong quantitative and analytical skills
• Proven programming ability
• Clear motivation for fundamental and applied research
• Interest in applied domains such as:
• • Retail
  • Logistics
  • Transportation
  • Energy and commodity markets

GRE / GMAT Requirements

• Mandatory for applicants with master’s degrees from non-EU/EEA countries
• Strongly encouraged for EU/EEA applicants
• Competitive scores are typically 85th percentile or above

English Language Requirements

Applicants must provide TOEFL or IELTS scores unless exempt.

Minimum Scores:

• TOEFL iBT: 90
• TOEFL Paper: 575
• TOEFL Computer: 233
• IELTS: 6.5

Exemptions apply for:

• Native English speakers
• Prior education taught entirely in English
• Certain EU/EEA or Council of Europe qualifications

Gender Preference

• When candidates are equally qualified, female applicants may be given preference to promote gender balance in research.

How to Apply (Step-by-Step Guide)

All applications for the BI Norwegian Business School PhD Scholarship in Data Science 2026 must be submitted online only.

Application Method

• Apply through the official “Send Application” button
• Email or paper applications are not accepted

Required Documents

Prepare the following documents carefully:

1. Curriculum Vitae (CV)

   • Include academic background, research experience, publications, and thesis details

2. Letters of Recommendation (Minimum 2)

   • Must be sent directly by referees to:
     📧 [email protected]

3. Statement of Purpose (Max 1000 words)

   • Clearly explain your research interests and motivation

4. One Academic Work

   • Master’s thesis or equivalent research paper

5. Degree Certificates & Transcripts

   • Bachelor’s and Master’s level

6. GRE / GMAT Scores (if applicable)

7. TOEFL / IELTS Scores (if applicable)

8. Signed Verification Document

Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview as part of the selection process.

Research Environment at BI Norwegian Business School

BI Norwegian Business School is one of Europe’s leading business and research institutions, known for its strong emphasis on data-driven research and innovation.

As a PhD candidate, you will benefit from:

• World-class research facilities
• International faculty and supervisors
• Collaborative research culture
• Access to global academic networks

The Department of Data Science and Analytics plays a critical role in shaping future leaders in analytics, AI, and decision sciences.

📅 Application Deadline

⏰ 15 February 2026

Early preparation is strongly recommended due to the competitive nature of this scholarship.

Apply Now (Official Link)

👉 Apply Now (Official Application Portal): Click Here

Final Encouragement: Take the Leap

Opportunities like the BI Norwegian Business School PhD Scholarship in Data Science 2026 do not come often. This program is designed for individuals who are ready to challenge themselves intellectually, contribute to meaningful research, and build a future grounded in knowledge, innovation, and global impact.

If you have the academic background, curiosity, and ambition to push boundaries in data science and artificial intelligence, this could be the defining opportunity of your academic career. Do not let self-doubt stop you — world-class institutions are actively looking for dedicated researchers just like you.

Start preparing today, submit a strong application, and take the first step toward a fully funded PhD in Norway that can transform your future.