What You Need to Know About the UK Government's AI and Data Science Scholarships

Could you join the next generation of Artificial Intelligence and Data Science experts in the UK? As part of an effort to encourage new talent in one of the world’s fastest-developing sectors, the government has announced that it will invest £23 million in over 2,000 scholarships for postgraduate conversion courses.

The announcement commences the second phase of the AI Scholarship Programme, which was first launched in 2019. It aims to make tech jobs accessible to as many people as possible, by targeting underrepresented groups without previous experience in the field.

Which courses are funded?

As part of a push to attract students from diverse academic backgrounds, the scholarships are available exclusively for conversion courses in Data Science and/or AI. You can apply for a conversion course with an undergraduate degree in any (including a non-STEM!) subject. Funded courses are currently available at 28 universities.

Artificial intelligence refers to the development of computer systems to carry out tasks that were once only achievable by humans, such as speech recognition and decision making. Data science is the extraction and analysis of information needed to utilise AI. You can choose to study either discipline, or a combination of the two.

Some courses are focused on the use of AI in specific industries, such as healthcare or business. All programmes include paid work placements, giving you the opportunity to apply your learning and expand your professional network.

You’ll be able to choose from various modes of study, including distance, blended and part-time options.

When can I apply?

The current phase of the AI Scholarship Programme will run until 2023, meaning many courses are open for September 2022 entry! You can view a full list of eligible courses and start dates on the Office for Students website.

The second round of the scheme will begin in April 2023 and continue until 2025. Universities will be able to bid for scholarships later this year as part of an open competition.

Who is eligible?

Exact eligibility requirements will differ from university to university, but scholarships will generally be prioritised for Black, female and disabled applicants. Other priority groups may include:

Students living in areas of the UK where young people are less likely to attend university (this is defined as POLAR quintiles 1 and 2)
Students who have experience of being in care
Students from traveller communities
Refugees
Veterans and children of military personnel

Applications are also open to international students from eligible groups, though some universities may give priority to UK students.

How much will I get?

Scholarships are worth up to £10,000 and can be used towards tuition fees, living expenses and any other associated costs.

What can I do with a Masters in AI or Data Science?

An expertise in AI or Data Science is in high demand in almost every area of the economy, from transport to medicine to infrastructure.

Whether you’re assisting in the development of self-driving cars, designing robotic tools for use during surgical procedures or analysing data to find innovative business solutions for top companies, you’ll be at the forefront of revolutionary advances across a variety of industries.

Further information

To find out more about currently available scholarships, visit the Office for Students website. Details of the second phase will be released later this year, so make sure to check back for updates!