Deadline: March 2, 2026
Applications are open for the Spärck AI Scholarship Programme 2026. The government funded Spärck AI Scholarship programme, is named after pioneering British computer scientist Karen Spärck Jones. This will provide full funding (tuition fees and stipend) for each chosen scholar to undertake a master’s course paired to the programme at one of the nine partnered universities.
If selected, you will join a dynamic world-class cohort of high-achieving and adaptable individuals who demonstrate leadership potential, resilience, and a clear vision for the future of AI. You’ll be empowered to drive innovation and contribute meaningfully to the UK’s AI ecosystem—emerging as part of the next generation of AI leaders. Through industry exposure and structured cohort activities, you’ll gain the skills and networks needed to shape responsible, high-impact AI development across research, government, and industry.
Throughout the year, you’ll take part in a range of activities designed to build connections within your cohort and with professionals across the AI landscape, acting as a prestigious community of future AI leaders. Towards the end of your master’s course, you’ll have the opportunity to apply for a work placement with one of our industry partners in an AI-related field.
Funding is available to support the following MSc programmes:
- MSc Artificial Intelligence
- MSc Data Science
- MSc Cognitive Science
Eligibility
They are looking to recruit candidates from a broad range of backgrounds, who can demonstrate how they meet some of the following characteristics. Upon receipt of your application, assessors will consider these qualities as part of the selection process, recognising that candidates may demonstrate them in different ways and through varied experiences:
Strengths:
- Curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving
- Comfort with ambiguity and change
- Strong communication skills
- Entrepreneurial mindset and leadership potential
- Teamwork
Motivations:
- What it means to be part of a government-funded scholarship and how you would make the most of this opportunity
- Your motivation to contribute to the AI ecosystem in the UK
Application
The application processes for the scholarship and the programme are separate and success in one does not guarantee success in the other. You must submit an application to an eligible programme before you apply for the scholarship.
The scholarship application process involves two stages. Stage one is the completion of an online form that comprises four components:
- equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) statement
- personal statement
- essay question
- reference
For more information, visit Spärck AI Scholarship Programme.
