University of Bristol Spärck AI Scholarships 2026

Fully Funded Master’s Scholarship in Artificial Intelligence (UK)

The University of Bristol is launching a prestigious opportunity for future leaders in artificial intelligence through the Spärck AI Scholarships 2026. This fully funded scholarship program, announced by the UK Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), supports students pursuing postgraduate degrees in AI and related STEM fields.

Named after renowned computer scientist Karen Spärck Jones, this government-backed initiative will fund at least 100 master’s students at nine top UK universities, including Oxford, Cambridge, UCL, and Bristol. The program offers not only full tuition and living expenses but also unmatched access to mentorship, internships, and collaboration with some of the UK’s leading AI institutions and companies.

Why Study AI at the University of Bristol?

The University of Bristol is one of the UK’s most innovative and forward-thinking institutions in artificial intelligence. Recently named AI University of the Year, Bristol is also the proud host of Isambard-AI, the UK’s most powerful supercomputer.

The university houses:

• The Bristol Centre for Supercomputing

• A Centre for Doctoral Training in AI

• Two National AI Research Hubs

This environment makes Bristol one of the best-equipped universities in the UK for advanced study and research in AI.

According to University of Bristol Vice-Chancellor Professor Evelyn Welch:

“We relish the opportunity to shape the next generation of global AI pioneers – collaborating with our partners to explore bold new ideas, nurture exceptional talent, and advance the future of this transformative technology together.”

Available Master’s Programs in AI (2026/27)

The following new master’s degree programs will be available at the University of Bristol as part of this scholarship initiative:

• MSc in Artificial Intelligence

• MSc in Engineering with Artificial Intelligence

• MSc in Artificial Intelligence for Business

• MSc in Artificial Intelligence for Medicine and Health

These programs focus on real-world AI applications across sectors such as healthcare, robotics, sustainable engineering, and business intelligence.

Scholarship Benefits

Recipients of the Spärck AI Scholarship at the University of Bristol will receive:

• Full tuition fee coverage for the entire master’s program

• Monthly living allowance to support day-to-day expenses

• Mentorship from leading AI researchers and professionals

• Internship placements with top AI companies in the UK

• Access to industry partnerships, including:

  • Darktrace

  • Faculty

  • Quantexa

  • PolyAI

  • CausaLens

  • Beamery

  • Flok

• Involvement with the UK’s AI Safety Institute

Eligibility Criteria

To apply, candidates must:

• Hold or be pursuing a bachelor’s degree in a relevant STEM field such as:

• Be eligible to study in the UK

• Demonstrate academic excellence and potential in the field of AI

• Be committed to driving innovation and ethical AI development

• Applicants from underrepresented or low-income backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply

Application Timeline

• Applications Open: Spring 2026

• Course Commencement: October 2026

• Scholarship Deadline: To Be Announced (Please check the official University of Bristol website for updates)

How to Apply

1. Visit the University of Bristol’s postgraduate admissions portal

2. Choose your preferred AI-related MSc program

3. Prepare your application materials:

4. Indicate your interest in the Spärck AI Scholarship within your application

5. Submit before the scholarship deadline

6. Shortlisted applicants may be invited for interviews or additional documentation

Government Support for AI Talent

UK Technology Secretary Peter Kyle MP emphasized the importance of this scholarship:

“We are providing unique opportunities for talented young people to take up master’s degrees in AI, with fully funded tuition and unparalleled access to industry. Students will go on to highly skilled jobs, building a workforce fit for the future and boosting economic growth.”

This scholarship is part of the UK’s broader effort to build a world-class, diverse AI talent pipeline, driving innovation in critical sectors such as drug discovery, security, and climate change.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the scholarship available for international students?
Yes, students from all nationalities are welcome to apply.

Do I need prior work experience in AI to apply?
No, work experience is not mandatory, though relevant academic or professional experience can strengthen your application.

Will the scholarship cover living expenses?
Yes, it provides a full living stipend in addition to covering all tuition costs.

Is the scholarship limited to Computer Science majors?
No, students from other STEM and applied disciplines—like engineering, business, and health—are eligible if they demonstrate strong AI interest and capability.

When will I know if I’m selected?
Final selection timelines will be published on the University of Bristol’s website closer to the application deadline.

Conclusion

The Spärck AI Scholarships 2026 at the University of Bristol offer a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to earn a fully funded master’s degree in artificial intelligence at one of the UK’s most advanced AI research institutions. With industry partnerships, cutting-edge research, and real-world impact, this program equips the next generation of AI innovators with the tools to shape the future.

If you are driven to transform industries and solve global challenges using AI, this scholarship could be your gateway to academic excellence and professional success.