Google DeepMind AI for Science Master’s program at AIMS 2026
AI for Science is a specialised stream within AIMS South Africa’s Master’s programme in Mathematical Sciences, established through a partnership with Google DeepMind. The programme operates at the dynamic intersection of artificial intelligence and the sciences, equipping students with advanced mathematical and computational tools to address complex scientific challenges.
Launched with its first cohort in September 2023, the programme is a fully residential, one-year taught master’s degree that includes a strong research component. It is open to applicants from across Africa who have a deep interest in mathematics, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. The programme seeks curious and highly motivated students those inspired by the natural world and the universe who are eager to apply their skills to advance and accelerate scientific discovery.
Requirements for the Google DeepMind AI for Science Master’s Programme at AIMS
To be eligible for the AI for Science stream, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be resident in Africa at the time of application*.
- Be a citizen of any African country.
- Have completed a four-year undergraduate degree, or a three-year undergraduate degree plus an honours year, by August 2025 (or by December 2025 for applicants from Southern Africa, as outlined in the FAQ).
- Not have previously received a scholarship to study at any AIMS centre.
Eligible undergraduate backgrounds include physics, mathematics, statistics, computer science, engineering, or any other discipline with a strong foundation in mathematics and computation.
Selection Process
The online application is not an examination; rather, it is designed to help the selection panel understand how applicants think and solve problems. Completing a strong application requires time and preparation, so prospective Google DeepMind Scholars at AIMS South Africa are strongly encouraged to apply early.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to participate in brief online interviews, which form the final stage of the selection process and are scheduled for May 2026.
Application Documents
Applicants are required to submit the following documents:
- A current curriculum vitae (CV)
- A motivation letter of approximately 500 words
- Official academic transcripts
- Representative samples of previous work in the mathematical sciences (as specified on the application platform)
- Completion of a coding problem (available on the application platform)
How to Apply
To register kindly visit: apply.aims.ac.za and upload the required documents there before 11:59 PM on 6 March, 2025
For further inquiries and information kindly visit: AIMS Scholarship webpage
Application Deadline
6th March, 2026
