Spärck AI Scholarship

Scholarship details

This UK Government award, named after pioneering computer scientist Karen Spärck Jones, supports the development of talented leaders in AI and its application across diverse disciplines.

Key information

Value: Full tuition fees plus £22,780 stipend (for one year)
Available to: Prospective students
Selection criteria: Academic Merit
Other selection criteria: Strengths and motivations
Eligible fee status: Home and Overseas
Eligible programmes: Selected 1-year Master's programmes
Deadline: TBC

Value, benefits, and duration

- There are up to 100 scholarships available across all nine participating UK universities in 2026/27.
- The value of the scholarship is full tuition fees plus £22,780 stipend.
- The scholarship is tenable for one year only.
- The Spärck AI Scholarship may not be held alongside other UK Government scholarships, studentships, awards, or bursaries.
- Bursary recipients are obliged to inform the UCL Student Funding Office immediately of any other funding they are awarded towards their UCL Master’s degree studies, before or subsequent to the Spärck AI Scholarship being awarded.

Other award information

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 a wide range of research projects, 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.