The Spärck AI Scholarship Programme is a fully funded, government-supported master’s scholarship offered through the School of Informatics at the University of Edinburgh. The Spärck AI Scholarship Programme provides full funding for tuition fees and a stipend to selected scholars who wish to pursue eligible MSc programmes in Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, or Cognitive Science. Named after the pioneering British computer scientist Karen Spärck Jones, the Spärck AI Scholarship Programme aims to develop the next generation of AI leaders who will contribute meaningfully to the UK’s artificial intelligence ecosystem.

The Spärck AI Scholarship Programme is designed for high-achieving individuals with leadership potential, intellectual curiosity, and a strong motivation to engage with the future of responsible and high-impact AI development. Scholars selected under the Spärck AI Scholarship Programme will study at one of the nine partner universities, including the University of Edinburgh, while participating in a structured cohort experience that combines academic excellence, industry exposure, and professional development.

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Introduction and Background of the Spärck AI Scholarship Programme

The Spärck AI Scholarship Programme is a UK government-funded scholarship initiative created to strengthen the artificial intelligence talent pipeline within the United Kingdom. Delivered in partnership with leading UK universities, the programme supports students undertaking master’s-level education in AI-related fields that are critical to research, industry innovation, and public policy.

At the University of Edinburgh’s School of Informatics, the Spärck AI Scholarship Programme supports scholars enrolling in specific postgraduate taught programmes aligned with the objectives of the scholarship. The School of Informatics is internationally recognised for its contributions to artificial intelligence, data science, and cognitive science, making it a strategic partner for the programme.

Beyond financial support, the Spärck AI Scholarship Programme emphasises cohort-based learning, leadership development, and engagement with professionals across academia, industry, and government. Scholars are encouraged to think critically about the societal, ethical, and practical implications of AI while developing the technical expertise required to contribute to the field at a high level.

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What the Spärck AI Scholarship Programme Offers

The Spärck AI Scholarship Programme provides full funding to selected candidates. This funding covers:

• Tuition fees for the eligible MSc programme

• A stipend to support living costs during the period of study

In addition to financial support, scholars become part of a prestigious and world-class cohort of individuals who demonstrate:

• Leadership potential

• Resilience and adaptability

• Strong communication skills

• A clear vision for the future of artificial intelligence

Throughout the academic year, scholars participate in structured cohort activities designed to foster collaboration, networking, and professional growth. These activities help build long-term connections within the AI ecosystem and expose scholars to real-world applications of AI across research, government, and industry.

Towards the end of the master’s course, scholars will also have the opportunity to apply for a work placement with one of the programme’s industry partners in an AI-related field.

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Eligible MSc Programmes Supported by the Spärck AI Scholarship Programme

At the University of Edinburgh, funding under the Spärck AI Scholarship Programme is available for the following postgraduate taught master’s programmes:

• MSc Artificial Intelligence

• MSc Data Science

• MSc Cognitive Science

Applicants must apply separately to one of these eligible programmes. Admission to an eligible programme is required before applying for the scholarship, but success in gaining admission does not guarantee success in the scholarship competition.

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Eligibility Criteria for the Spärck AI Scholarship Programme

The Spärck AI Scholarship Programme seeks candidates from a broad range of backgrounds. While specific nationality restrictions are not stated, applicants must meet the academic and personal criteria outlined below and be eligible to enrol in one of the supported MSc programmes.

Who Can Apply

Applicants must:

• Be eligible to apply for and enrol in one of the supported MSc programmes at the University of Edinburgh

• Demonstrate academic capability suitable for postgraduate study in AI-related fields

• Be able to commit to the full duration of the master’s programme

Desired Strengths

Selection assessors will consider evidence of the following strengths:

• Curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving ability

• Comfort with ambiguity and change

• Strong communication skills

• Entrepreneurial mindset and leadership potential

• Ability to work effectively in teams

Candidates may demonstrate these strengths through academic achievements, professional experience, research, or other relevant activities.

Motivational Considerations

Applicants must clearly articulate:

• What it means to be part of a government-funded scholarship

• How they would make the most of the Spärck AI Scholarship Programme

• Their motivation to contribute to the AI ecosystem in the UK

Important Funding Condition

Applicants should note that only one form of UK government funding may be accepted. Candidates who apply to multiple UK government-funded scholarships or bursaries will only be eligible to accept one award if successful.

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Programme Structure and Scholar Experience

The Spärck AI Scholarship Programme runs alongside the selected MSc programme for the full academic year. Scholars will:

• Undertake a full-time master’s degree in Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, or Cognitive Science

• Participate in cohort-based activities with fellow scholars

• Engage with professionals from academia, industry, and government

• Build networks that support long-term career development in AI

The programme emphasises both technical excellence and responsible innovation, ensuring scholars are well-equipped to contribute to AI research, policy development, and industrial applications.

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Application Process for the Spärck AI Scholarship Programme

The application process for the Spärck AI Scholarship Programme is separate from the application process for the MSc programme.

Step 1: Apply to an Eligible MSc Programme

Applicants must first submit an application to one of the eligible MSc programmes at the University of Edinburgh:

• MSc Artificial Intelligence

• MSc Data Science

• MSc Cognitive Science

An offer for an eligible programme is required before submitting a scholarship application.

Step 2: Apply for the Scholarship

The scholarship application consists of two stages.

Stage One: Online Application

Applicants must complete an online form that includes:

• An Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) statement

• A personal statement

• An essay question

• A reference

Applications are assessed based on the overall strength of the submission.

Stage Two: Interview

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview.

• Interviews are scheduled to take place in May 2026

• Selection for interview is based on the quality of the written application

Due to the volume of applications, feedback will not be provided. Successful applicants will be notified of the outcome by July 2026.

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Important Dates and Deadlines

• Scholarship applications open: Currently open

• Application deadline: Monday, 2 March 2026 at 5:00 pm GMT

• Interviews: May 2026

• Notification of successful applicants: July 2026

Applicants are encouraged to prepare all materials carefully and submit before the deadline.

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Contact Information

For enquiries related to the scholarship at the University of Edinburgh:

Neil Heatley
Head of Student Services
Email: neil.heatley@ed.ac.uk

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Why Choose the Spärck AI Scholarship Programme

The Spärck AI Scholarship Programme offers more than financial support. It provides scholars with:

• Access to world-class AI education

• A prestigious government-funded scholarship

• A strong professional network within the UK AI ecosystem

• Opportunities for leadership development and industry engagement

Through this programme, scholars are positioned to become future leaders in artificial intelligence, contributing to responsible and impactful AI innovation.

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The Spärck AI Scholarship Programme at the University of Edinburgh is a unique opportunity for students seeking a fully funded master’s scholarship in Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, or Cognitive Science. With full tuition coverage, a stipend, structured cohort activities, and exposure to industry partners, the Spärck AI Scholarship Programme supports talented individuals committed to shaping the future of AI in the UK. Applicants who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a strong motivation to contribute to the AI ecosystem are encouraged to apply.

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 Application Portal

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