Fulbright Iceland-National Science Foundation Nordic Award in Arctic Security
Multi-Country
Iceland
Finland
Denmark
Norway
Sweden
Multi-country
Number of recipients
This is primarily a research grant. The recipient of this award will conduct research related to evolving Arctic security/northern security and geopolitical concerns. This research will be undertaken in Iceland and one other Nordic country, with the goal of contributing substantively to the debate on Arctic security, broadly defined, to ensure a stable and sustainable Arctic region.
This is a unique opportunity to undertake research in two Arctic states on a timely topic that is high on the agenda in the U.S. and the Nordic countries.
Project proposals must be well-defined, and the chosen project must be completed within the grant period. The scholar may be invited to engage in some teaching, mentoring, and development activity, in addition to the research.
Applicant will spend three months in Iceland and three months in one of the following countries: Denmark, Finland, Norway or Sweden.
Affiliation with any university, research organization, or other appropriate partners in Iceland and another Nordic country.
3 months in each country consecutively, 6 months in total.
Grants should begin no earlier than mid-August 2027. Grants must be completed by end of June 2028.
There is a possibility to conduct the project in two segments, with one segment encompassing Iceland and the other segment encompassing the other Nordic state.
The grant is open to scholars and professionals in relevant fields as they relate to Arctic security.
Relevant fields include, but are not limited to governance, political science and international relations, security studies, defense studies, law, cybersecurity, environmental security, food, energy, and water security, science and technology, hybrid threats or other appropriate fields.
The local hosts should help the scholar to settle in, provide introductions and, in general, provide assistance to ensure a productive and enjoyable Fulbright experience.
This grant is offered through a unique partnership with the National Science Foundation and provides an unique opportunity to build relations with NSF and Fulbright Commissions. The grant is a great opportunity for those who wish to conduct NSF-funded research abroad under the auspices, and with the support, of Fulbright Commissions.
All applicants must meet the Program eligibility requirements (click to review the requirements).
Applicants must submit letters of invitation from institutions both in Iceland and the other Nordic country involved. Applicants can send the letter of invitation after the application deadline, but has to be submitted no longer than 1 month after the deadline has passed.
If applicants need assistance in finding appropriate affiliation, they are welcome to contact the appropriate Fulbright Commissions.
In Iceland:
University of Iceland | Research Centres at the University of Iceland
University of Akureyri
Bifröst University
Hólar University
The Agricultural University of Iceland
University Centre of the Westfjords
Stefansson Arctic Institute
The Centre for Arctic Studies
In Denmark:
University of Copenhagen
Arctic DTU - Technical University of Denmark
AAU Arctic– Aalborg University
Ilisimatusarfik – University of Greenland
Pinngortitaleriffik – Greenland Institute of Natural Resources
University of Southern Denmark – Center of Public Health in Greenland
DIIS - Danish Institute for International Studies
In Finland:
Universities with Arctic-focus:
University of Oulu
University of Lapland
Arctic Centre – University of Lapland
Thule Institute – University of Oulu
Finland’s Strategy for Arctic Policy
In Norway:
General:
Basic introduction to life in Norway
Government’s presentation of higher education in Norway, with links to all universities
Statistics Norway has a wealth of information in English about Norway
List of US scholars who have had Fulbrights to Norway
Institutions with an Arctic focus:
Government page on High North strategy
Norwegian Polar Institute
UiT Arctic University of Norway
UNIS – University Centre at Svalbard
NORD University
University of Bergen
NTNU
Bjerknes Centre for Climate Research
In Sweden:
Universities and organizations with Arctic focus:
The Arctic Centre
The Arctic Five
Stockholm Environment Institute
Swedish Polar Research Secretariat
Sami Land Free University
Swedish Sami Council
$5,000 per month, payable monthly.
The grant is denominated in U.S. dollars but some and possibly all payments will be paid in the local currency according to the current exchange rate.
The grant is intended to cover living costs in the host countries.
No separate housing allowance provided. Grantees are responsible for arranging their own housing, but the host institution is expected to assist the grantee in finding affordable housing and settling in. Some hosts institutions in Iceland may in some instances be able to offer on-campus housing.
Travel allowance is $2,500 for the grantee, payable with the first grant payment.
Baggage allowance is $600, payable at the end of the grant period.
It is not necessary to provide a receipt for travel and baggage allowance.
Travel and baggage allowances are to cover both travels from and to the U.S. and between Iceland and the other Nordic country.
All allowances are denominated in U.S. dollars but may be paid in the local currency according to the current exchange rate.
An additional research stipend up to $500 per month.
The monthly grant is increased to $5,500 (a $500 increase) per month for grantees with a dependent or dependents. A dependent must stay in Iceland for at least 80% of the grant period to be eligible for a dependent supplement.
Children can attend primary and lower-secondary public schools at little or no cost in the Nordic countries, which is a great way to integrate into local society. Depending on the location, there might be private international schools available in the area. Tuition fee for private schooling is not covered by the grant.
The Nordic countries are considered high-cost countries. Housing is comparable to many U.S. cities, with housing most expensive in capital areas and less expensive outside the capital areas. Food is relatively expensive compared to some areas in the U.S., but of high quality. Many grantees live centrally and can walk to most destinations, but public transport is widely available.
In Iceland:
The scholar will be invited to monthly grantee enrichment events provided by the Fulbright Commission during the academic year. Also, the scholar will be taken out to lunch at the beginning and end of the grant period for briefing and debriefing.
In Denmark:
The scholar will be invited to enrichment events provided by Fulbright Denmark and their respective research group(s) during the academic year. Strong focus on social activities. Special activities for scholars traveling with families.
In Finland:
The scholar will be invited to special enrichment events provided by Fulbright Finland Foundation during the academic year.
In Norway:
Scholar will be invited to orientation seminar and reception at Nobel Institute, and the social highlight of the Fulbright Norway year, the February ski-weekend at a resort near Lillehammer.
In Sweden:
The scholar will be invited to special enrichment events provided by Fulbright Sweden during the academic year.
Special funding for disabled grantees
Funding is available for U.S. Fulbright scholars to Iceland and Finland with a disability, be it a structural or functional impairment or activity/participation limitation, that entails additional costs that are not covered specifically through the Fulbright Program. Some funding may be available for a wide range of disabilities, including, for example, hearing, vision or movement impairment. The funding could, for example, be used to assist with specialized housing needs, in-country transport or specialized assistance. The extra funding amount will depend on need and will be decided by the Commission after consultation with the scholar. Funding is provided through the Bruce A. Fowler Mobility Fund.
Iceland
Iceland is a small Nordic country, an island republic in the North Atlantic, between the U.S. and the European mainland. Iceland is technologically advanced, English is widely spoken and Americans find Icelandic society and culture relatively easy to navigate.
There has been tremendous growth in academia in Iceland in recent years. On the one hand, the Fulbright Program aims, through teaching grants, to enhance and develop key disciplines at the university level and encourage newer and smaller departments. Being a small country, it is very important to the Icelandic higher education system to have access to Fulbright Scholars who have an important role to play in terms of broadening curricula and offering courses that would otherwise not be available, as well as bringing new perspectives and collaboration in research. Fulbright Scholars make a real difference and have a large role in shaping courses and curricula. The Fulbright Commission has increasingly focused also on bringing research scholars to Iceland. Opportunities for research are many and varied and can easily be conducted in English. U.S. scholars, both in natural and social sciences, have in the past years been very satisfied with the research infrastructure in Iceland. Research collaboration is also highly valued by Icelandic academics, who are eager for opportunities to host and collaborate with U.S. colleagues. Through the Commission's partnership with the National Science Foundation, the goal is to strengthen research in Iceland that has relevance for the Arctic and promote cooperation amongst scientists in a wide variety of Arctic relevant fields. Please note that many research topics can have relevance to the Arctic, even though they may not be strictly categorized as Arctic research, for example topics dealing with, health, conservation, security broadly defined (for example, food or energy security), marine or coastal studies, anthropology and archaeology, just to name a few.
Fulbright Scholars are generally pleased with their stay in Iceland and find it very useful for their careers back home. For those grants where Fulbright Scholars are expected to teach and advise, the program is designed to ensure an opportunity for scholars to do their own research as well, if they so desire. Iceland provides very interesting research opportunities in many fields. As a small, highly technologically advanced country, Iceland is ideal for many types of research. English is widely spoken and much used in academia. Scholars can generally expect good access to people, institutions and information for research purposes.
Those who receive research grants will have opportunities to engage in some teaching and lecturing, if they so desire. Many find that this enhances their experience and is useful also for their research. Even if not teaching, scholars are required to present some talks while in Iceland.
Teaching awards are for three to five months in the fall or spring semester. The fall semester starts at mid-to-end of August and ends around mid-December. The spring semester is from early January through mid-May. Research awards are more flexible in terms of time frame and length, but must be completed within the allotted time frame.
Iceland has spectacular nature and offers scholars an opportunity for unique outdoor experiences, in addition to a vibrant cultural scene and an exciting local cuisine. There is a good public school system, and scholars with children have had positive experiences.
Since the Fulbright Program in Iceland is relatively small, the Commission is able to maintain close ties with scholars during their stay and provide a sense of community among Fulbright scholars and fellows. There are monthly grantee activities sponsored by the Commission, in addition to access to Fulbright alumni events and other social activities.
Please see below two grantee video profile of U.S. scholars who talk about her experiences doing research and teaching in Iceland:
Denmark
Living in Denmark
One of the world’s oldest monarchies, the Realm includes Denmark, Faroe Islands, and Greenland. Twice named the happiest people on earth; highly developed public welfare system; bicycle culture; many traditions and great modern design - but Denmark is so much more! Why not apply for a Fulbright Scholar grant to Denmark and come see for yourself?
Take a moment to imagine yourself as a Fulbright scholar in Denmark living among a population that consistently ranks above average on OECD’s Better Life Index in environmental quality, civic engagement, well-being, personal security, and a great work-life balance. Denmark offers a relaxed and friendly, yet pragmatic and modern lifestyle.
Denmark is very design and energy conscientious with its windmill industry, focus on renewable energy, innovative solutions, and clean simple lines in classic creations.
Strong Fulbright Denmark support
During your grant period, Fulbright Denmark will be there to help you settle into your Danish life. Fulbright Denmark will arrange for three meetings during the academic year: an Arrival Orientation in early fall, a seminar and Thanksgiving Dinner in November, and a Wrap-Up Seminar in spring. Should you arrive outside of these meetings, Fulbright Denmark staff will set up an individual arrival meeting and provide you with the same information. Fulbright Denmark works closely with all institutions of higher education in Denmark and can be your broker into the Danish educational system and culture. Fulbright Denmark urges you to make use of its knowledge while you are contemplating or planning to apply for a grant to Denmark.
There are ample opportunities to liaise with colleagues and give guest lectures at other institutions in the country, and to participate in the Fulbright Inter-Country Travel Program with guest lectures in other European countries.
Excellent higher education system
Higher education began here in 1479 with the creation of the University of Copenhagen and the culture it engendered has produced Tycho Brahe, Hans Christian Andersen, Soren Kierkegaard, Niels Bohr, Karen Blixen, Johannes V. Jensen and countless others.
There are eight research-based universities in Denmark: University of Copenhagen, Aarhus University, Roskilde University, University of Southern Denmark, Aalborg University, Copenhagen Business School, IT University of Copenhagen, and Technical University of Denmark. There is one university in Nuuk, Greenland (Ilisimatusarfik) and one university in Thorshavn, Faroe Islands (Fróðskaparsetur Føroya). There are also University Colleges and Schools of Applied Science which may best be compared to U.S. community colleges. There are also national artistic programs of higher education offered under the Danish Ministry of Culture.
Most of the higher education in Denmark is public and regulated by the Ministry of Higher Education and Science. These are some of the degree programs offered in Denmark: Academy Profession programs (2 years), Professional Bachelor’s programs (3-4 years), Fine Arts programs (3-4 years), University study Programs (Bachelor’s (3 years) and Master’s (2 years), PhD programs (3 years). You can read more about the degree programs on the Ministry’s website, specifically The Danish Higher Education System.
The fall semester runs from the end of August or beginning of September to approx. December 20. January is exam month. The spring semester runs from the beginning of February to approx. May 20. Part of May and June are for exams. There is typically a one-week fall break in mid-October and another at Easter. Most institutions are closed in the summer and so it might be challenging to reach relevant contacts during this period.
Finland
To learn more about Fulbright U.S. Scholar awards in Finland for 2026-27, please view our archived webinar and slides to hear directly from the Fulbright Commission, IIE staff, and U.S. Scholar alums regarding award details, the scholar experience, and application guidance.
Finland is a Nordic country the size of California located in northern Europe and is part of the European Union. It is rather sparsely populated (5.6 million people) and has extensive nature: forests, coastline, and lakes. The six largest cities host approximately 60% of the population; urban environments are closely linked to nature. It is a country that has a well-organized and efficient society. The general infrastructure, both public and private services, is considered very effective. Well run public services such as transportation, police, education, and healthcare are fundamental and highly regarded parts of the society. The arts and design, cultural life, nature, and sports are highly valued. Finland ranks as one of the world’s most stable nations and has been named one of the safest and least corrupt countries in the world, which makes it an easy place to live and travel.
Finns believe strongly in equality and education, and the country is especially known for its effective and free education system. Finland has two types of higher education institutions: universities and universities of applied sciences (UAS). Finnish higher education institutions engage in world-leading research and offer high-quality academic programs. On a national level, research and development is highly emphasized. The Finnish government is committed to the target of raising research and development expenditure to four per cent of GDP by 2030. Together with a welcoming and intriguing environment, Finland offers interesting opportunities for American researchers, teachers, and professionals. English is widely used at the university level.
The academic year in Finland is based on a two-semester system. The official academic year starts on August 1 and ends on July 31. However, in the fall semester, lectures are usually scheduled between September and mid-December, and in the spring semester, between early January and May. Typically, there is no teaching during the summer and on public holidays.
Finland has a strong Fulbright program with a unique history. The program has an important role in supporting the internationalization of education and research in Finland, helping U.S. and Finnish institutions create linkages, and promoting a wider exchange of knowledge and professional talents through educational contacts between Finland and the United States. The program has grown in recent years due to the close cooperation of the Fulbright Finland Foundation with Finnish universities, research institutions, governmental agencies, and private foundations, as well as to U.S. and Finnish alumni contributions. Most of the program’s funding currently comes from Finland.
Norway
Norway is an excellent place to live, teach, and conduct research. With a strong public emphasis on knowledge and learning, Norway's generously funded and publicly accessible system of higher education and research is the backbone of Norwegian intellectual development, creativity, and innovation. A good introduction to Norway can be found here. In addition, Statistics Norway has a wealth of information in English on many topics.
The vast majority of higher education institutions in Norway are public. There is a single national admissions process for undergraduate study at public colleges and universities as well as some private institutions. In accordance with European standards, the years of study for a bachelor’s, master’s and Ph.D. degree are three, two and three respectively. In-depth information about higher education in Norway can be found here.
Norwegian institutions of higher education and research offer many opportunities for international scholars to conduct research and teach. English is used almost as a second language in Norway, and the international environment in most research and higher education institutions means that competence in Norwegian is not a requirement for a successful short-term research or teaching visit.
In addition, The Research Council of Norway has designated a number of Centers of Excellence and Centers for Research-Based Innovation in various fields. The centers are affiliated with Norway's top universities and premier independent research institutes and may be of particular interest for Fulbright scholars. Scholars especially interested in efforts to strengthen quality in higher education may want to consider one of the Norwegian Centres for Excellence in Education.
The academic year runs from mid-August to mid-December and mid-January to mid-June.
Sweden
With a total population of approximately 10.6 million, Sweden is a sparsely populated country, characterized by its long coastline, extensive forests and numerous lakes. It is one of the world’s northernmost countries. In terms of surface area, it is comparable to Spain, Thailand or the American state of California. Sweden’s borders have been unchanged since 1905, and the country has not been at war since 1814. Considering its geographic location, Sweden enjoys a favorable climate. This is mainly because of the Gulf Stream, a warm ocean current that flows off Norway’s west coast.
Americans visiting Sweden will find that English is widely spoken. Swedish society is welcoming, and the culture is relatively easy to navigate. As a technologically advanced country, Sweden is ideal for many types of research. Scholars can generally expect reasonable access to people, institutions and information for research purposes. Previous U.S. awardees have remarked on the “Nordic Model” as being built on mutual trust between citizens and government, where individuals generally feel like they can trust their leaders to do what’s best for them. In most aspects of society, Sweden follows “the science,” as opposed to public opinion, and generally trusts the work and research of scientists from the many top-tier universities above political and business interests.
A useful overview of Sweden is available online.
With a strong public emphasis on education, Sweden is an excellent place to teach and conduct research, and all Swedish institutions of higher education and research offer opportunities for international scholars. Candidates from the level of recent Ph.D. scholar to full professor in any discipline will therefore be considered. Preference is given to academic and professional excellence, feasibility and significance of the project, and match with host affiliation. English is sufficient, as Swedish students and scholars have excellent proficiency in English, but interest in or limited knowledge of the Swedish language is appreciated and often useful. The academic year consists of two 20-week semesters. The fall semester runs from the middle or end of August through mid-January and the spring term from mid-January through the beginning of June. Awards are rarely made in the summer months, unless justified by the nature of the project and prearranged with the prospective host institution.
All applicants should prioritize making a preliminary reservation at the university housing office of the host institution as soon as possible. If additional help is needed, they should ask their Swedish academic hosts for assistance in placing them in the university's housing queue. The Commission is unable to assist with housing. As all Fulbright grants are less than one year in length, U.S. grantees will not be issued a personal ID number and will therefore not be included in the social welfare system, nor be required to pay Swedish tax. As such, school options for family members should be discussed with the host institution.
Grantees in Sweden for less than six months will not be able to open a Swedish bank account and will receive their grant payment to their U.S. bank/financial institution. All grants will be paid in Swedish crowns (SEK) at the current exchange rate.
For more information on living and studying in Sweden, click here.
Contact at the Fulbright Commission in Iceland: fulbright@fulbright.is.
Contact at the Fulbright Commission in Denmark: info@fulbright.dk
Contact at the Fulbright Finland Foundation:
Program Manager, Scholar Programs
Tel: +358 44 5535 275
UsScholars@fulbright.fi
Coordinator
UsScholars@fulbright.fi
Contact at the Fulbright Commission in Norway: fulbright@fulbright.no
Contact at the Fulbright Commission in Sweden: fulbright@fulbright.se