Germany is stepping up efforts to attract global AI talent as applications open for the 2026 SECAI Scholarships, offering international students monthly financial support of €934 to pursue master’s studies in artificial intelligence-related fields.
- Germany is stepping up efforts to attract global AI talent as applications open for the 2026 SECAI Scholarships, offering international...
- Funding Targets Future AI Specialists The SECAI scholarship programme was established to support outstanding students working in areas connected to artificial...
- Eligible programmes include computer science, data science, bioinformatics, medical informatics, computational modelling, and nanoelectronic systems.
- Universities connected to federally supported AI initiatives are becoming attractive alternatives for students seeking research-intensive education in Europe without the...
Keep reading for the full breakdown on AI scholarship — everything you need to know is covered below.
SECAI hosts the programme in partnership with TU Dresden and Leipzig University, two institutions increasingly recognised for research in data science, computational systems, and intelligent technologies, alongside access to research networks and academic mentoring. Applications close on 30 June 2026.
Funding Targets Future AI Specialists
The SECAI scholarship programme was established to support outstanding students working in areas connected to artificial intelligence and embedded systems. According to official programme details, the initiative aims to encourage interdisciplinary research across computer science, engineering, medicine, mathematics, and related fields.
The funding is available to current or prospective master’s students enrolled at TU Dresden or Leipzig University. Eligible programmes include computer science, data science, bioinformatics, medical informatics, computational modelling, and nanoelectronic systems. Students pursuing other AI-focused pathways may also qualify if their studies align with SECAI research themes.
The scholarship can continue for up to 24 months, depending on the remaining duration of the student’s degree programme. Foreign students may also qualify for a family allowance under the programme regulations.
Strong Competition Expected
Germany’s growing investment in AI research has increased international interest in programmes linked to the country’s technology sector. Universities connected to federally supported AI initiatives are becoming attractive alternatives for students seeking research-intensive education in Europe without the high tuition fees often associated with other study destinations.
Applicants are expected to demonstrate excellent academic performance, with many successful candidates typically holding a converted German GPA equivalent of 1.7 or higher. Scholarship organisers have also encouraged applications from women in STEM-related subjects as part of wider diversity goals in AI education.
Separate Admission Process Required
Students who have not yet secured admission into their chosen master’s programme can still apply for the scholarship. However, organisers stress that university admission and scholarship applications are handled separately and must both be completed.
Required documents include academic transcripts, degree certificates, a CV, a motivation letter outlining the applicant’s connection to AI studies, and proof of admission status where applicable.
SECAI officials confirmed that while the final deadline is 30 June, a limited number of exceptional applicants may receive earlier consideration during preliminary review rounds. Students hoping to study AI in Germany next year are therefore encouraged to submit applications well before the closing date.
Interested applicants must submit their applications through the official SECAI application portal.