Scholarships and bursaries
We offer a range of financial support packages to help you succeed at university, no matter your income or background.
Spärck AI Scholarship
The Spärck AI Scholarship is designed to encourage home and international students to study Artificial Intelligence at Master's level.
Key information
- Paid directly to you
- 20780
- Award length
- 1 year
- Study level
- Postgraduate Taught
- Fee status
- Home (UK), International, I'm not sure
- Number of awards available
- 10
- Student type
- Prospective
Still unsure if this is for you? Then please contact us
The Spärck AI Scholarship is a UK government programme designed to attract top home and global talent to study artificial intelligence (AI) and related subjects at master's level. It is named after pioneering British computer scientist Karen Spärck Jones. As a Spärck AI Scholar, you’ll 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 the industry partners of the Spärck AI Scholarship in an AI-related field.
Scheme eligibility
Essential criteria are criteria you must meet to be considered for this scheme. Students who do not meet this criteria will not be considered for this award. The essential criteria for this scheme are as follows:
You’ll need to:
- Hold a First-class honours degree (70% average) from a UK university, or the overseas equivalent, in a Computer Science or related degree.
- Hold a conditional or unconditional offer to study a relevant master's course at The University of Manchester.
- Demonstrate in your application a strong motivation to contribute to the AI ecosystem in the UK, to be part of a government-funded scholarship, and a drive to make the most of the opportunity.
Application and selection process
How to apply
Students must complete the application form to be considered for this award.
What you need to apply
You’ll need to include a personal statement which outlines how you meet the core attributes and a chosen essay topic related to AI. Your personal statement will need to demonstrate these core attributes:
- Vision of AI technologies and their impact.
- Curiosity, critical thinking and problem-solving.
- Adaptability and comfort with ambiguity and change.
- Strong communication and collaboration skills.
- Entrepreneurial mindset and leadership potential.
Selection process
Eligible offer-holders will be contacted by email and invited to apply. Following an application, there will be an interview process and final decisions made by the 15 June.
Contact
For enquiries about this award, please contact us