AIMS Google DeepMind Scholarships 2026/2027: Requirements, Benefits & Step-by-Step Application Guide
The AIMS Google DeepMind Scholarship 2026/2027 is now open for applications. This prestigious, fully funded opportunity allows talented African students to pursue a Master’s degree in Mathematical Sciences with a focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI) at AIMS South Africa.
If you are passionate about mathematics, machine learning, and solving real scientific problems using AI, this could be your chance to become one of the 40 selected Google DeepMind Scholars for the September 2026 intake.
This comprehensive guide explains the eligibility requirements, benefits, covered expenses, required documents, and step-by-step application process.
About the Scholarship Providers
African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS)
The African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS) is located in Muizenberg, Western Cape. It was founded through partnerships with leading universities, including:
- University of Cambridge
- University of Cape Town
- University of Oxford
- Stellenbosch University
- University of the Western Cape
AIMS is dedicated to developing Africa’s next generation of mathematical scientists.
Google DeepMind
Google DeepMind was founded in 2010 in the UK as an artificial intelligence research laboratory. It was acquired by Google in 2014 and is now one of the world’s leading AI research organisations.
Through this partnership, Google DeepMind supports African students pursuing AI-driven scientific research.
About the AIMS Google DeepMind Scholarship Programme
The scholarship is part of the AI for Science stream within the Master’s in Mathematical Sciences at AIMS South Africa.
This is a:
- Fully residential
- One-year Master’s degree
- Research-based programme
- September 2026 cohort intake
The programme combines:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Machine Learning
- Advanced Mathematics
- Real-world scientific problem solving
Students from across Africa are encouraged to apply.
Scholarship Benefits & Expenses Covered
The AIMS Google DeepMind Scholarship is fully funded and covers:
- Full tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Living expenses
- Medical insurance
- Costs related to AI experiments and research
- Return flights to South Africa
Additional Benefits
- Direct access to DeepMind researchers and engineers
- Mentorship and professional support
- Exposure to cutting-edge AI for Science expertise
- Networking opportunities within the AI research community
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
Citizenship & Residence
- Must be an African citizen (any African country)
- Must be residing in Africa at the time of application
Academic Requirements
Applicants must:
- Have completed:
- A 4-year undergraduate degree, OR
- A 3-year undergraduate degree plus an Honours year
Degree completion must be:
- By August 2025
- Or by December 2025 (for Southern African applicants)
Eligible Fields of Study
Applicants must hold an undergraduate degree in:
- Computer Science
- Engineering
- Mathematics
- Statistics
- Physics
- Or any discipline with a strong computational and mathematical component
Additional Criteria
Applicants must:
- Not have previously received a scholarship from any AIMS centre
- Not have engaged in previous AIMS scholarship awards
- Be enrolling for a Master’s degree
- Be passionate about Mathematics
- Be passionate about Artificial Intelligence
- Be passionate about Machine Learning
Failure to meet any requirement may result in disqualification.
Required Supporting Documents
Applicants must submit:
- Full academic transcripts
- Representative examples of mathematical work (as requested on the portal)
- Coding problem (available on the application site)
- Updated Curriculum Vitae
- Motivational letter (approximately 500 words)
Incomplete applications may not be considered.
Important Notes About the Application Process
- The online application includes mathematics questions and one coding problem.
- This is NOT an exam — it helps the selection panel understand your problem-solving approach.
- Applicants are encouraged to start early, as the application is detailed and time-consuming.
- Final interviews will take place in May 2026.
How To Apply for the AIMS Google DeepMind Scholarship 2026 (Step-by-Step Guide)
Follow these steps carefully:
Step 1: Visit the Official Application Portal
Apply online via:
Step 2: Create an Account
Sign up for an account before logging in and starting your application.
Step 3: Complete the Online Application
Fill in all required sections, including:
- Personal information
- Academic background
- Mathematics problem-solving questions
- Coding problem
Step 4: Upload Supporting Documents
Ensure all documents are:
- Clear and legible
- Correctly formatted
- Uploaded before submission
Step 5: Submit Before the Deadline
Closing Date: 6 March 2026
Time: 11:59 PM South African Time
Late applications will not be accepted.
Why Apply for the AIMS Google DeepMind Scholarship?
This programme offers:
- World-class AI education in Africa
- Full financial support
- International-level mentorship
- Access to leading AI researchers
- A strong foundation for careers in AI, machine learning, and scientific research
If you are driven to use mathematics and AI to solve complex scientific challenges, this scholarship could be a life-changing opportunity.
Final Reminder
Application Deadline: 6 March 2026 (11:59 PM SAST)
Apply early, prepare thoroughly, and submit a complete application to maximize your chances of selection.
