Scholarship overview

  • Degree level

    Postgraduate taught

  • Value

    To be confirmed

  • Number of awards

    8

  • Academic year

    2027/2028

  • Tuition fee status

    Home, Overseas

  • Mode of study

    Full time

  • Available to

    Prospective students

  • Application deadline

  • Additional information

    scholarships@imperial.ac.uk

Eligibility criteria

Details of the Spärck AI Scholarships for the 2027/28 academic year will be confirmed and published by the end of January 2027. This information will include eligible programmes, the application process, and all relevant scholarship deadlines.

Please note: This scholarship is available to new entrants only. Students already studying the course are not eligible.

Additional information

Thank you for your interest in applying for the government funded Spärck AI Scholarship programme, named after pioneering British computer scientist Karen Spärck Jones. This will provide funding 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 ambitious, 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, mentorship, 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.

 

The first cohort of Spärck AI scholars will begin their studies in October 2026. This is backed by £17.2 million in government funding and delivers on a recommendation of the AI Opportunities Action Plan.

 

Companies signed up to participate in the scholarship programme include PolyAI, Quantexa, CausaLens, Flok, Beamery, Darktrace and Faculty.

Contact

If you have any additional questions, please contact us at scholarships@imperial.ac.uk.