AIMS Google DeepMind Scholarship 2026 – AI for Science Master’s Program

Applications for the AI for Science Master’s scholarship typically close in late March.

In 2025, the deadline was 21 March at 23:59 SAST. 

Prepare both academic and coding problem responses well in advance.

About the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences

The African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS) is Africa’s leading centre of excellence for postgraduate training in mathematical sciences. 

The AI for Science Master’s programme in Cape Town is offered in partnership with Google DeepMind and South African universities. 

It blends advanced AI education with scientific research mentorship.

Fields of Study Funded

This fully residential Master’s in Mathematical Sciences focuses on applying AI and machine learning to scientific domains. 

The programme emphasises research in cosmology, epidemiology, ecology, and related scientific areas. 

40 students from across Africa are selected each year as Google DeepMind Scholars.

Benefits for Recipients

Scholars receive full coverage of:

• Tuition, accommodation, living expenses, and medical insurance
  
• Equipment and computer access
  
• Travel support for relocation and conferences
  
• Bi-directional mentorship from Google DeepMind researchers and engineers
  
• Participation in AI-focused scientific events and networking opportunities

Eligibility Criteria 

Applicants must:

• Be an African citizen and reside in Africa during the application
  
• Hold a four‑year undergraduate degree, or a three‑year degree with an Honours year by August or December 2025 (for southern African students)
  
• Have an academic background in mathematics, engineering, computer science, statistics, physics, or a field with strong quantitative and computational components
  
• Not have held any previous AIMS scholarship

How to Apply

1. Applications open around 13 January 2025 and close 21 March 2025 for the 2025‑26 intake. Expect similar dates in 2026.
   
2. Register at apply.aims.ac.za and complete the online application.
   
3. Submit required documents: CV, motivation letter (~500 words), academic transcripts, answers to mathematics questions, and coding problems.
   
4. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to online interviews in May.
   
5. When asked where you heard about bursaries, enter “www.bursariesafrica.co.za.” 

Required Documents

Ensure you upload the following:

• Curriculum Vitae
  
• Academic transcripts and degree certificate
  
• 500‑word motivation letter
  
• Responses to written mathematics questions and coding problems on the application portal
  Late or incomplete uploads disqualify your application.

Closing Date

The confirmed deadline for the 2025 intake was 21 March 2025 at 23:59 SAST. 

The 2026 deadline has not yet been announced, but is expected to follow the same timeframe. 

Only complete applications submitted before the deadline will be considered.

Contact Details

For official enquiries, contact the AIMS AI for Science programme team:

• Email: ai‑[email protected]
  
• FAQ Portal: ai.aims.ac.za/faq
  Rely only on official AIMS sources for accurate information.