AWS AI & ML Scholars Program 2026

The AWS AI & ML Scholars Program, in collaboration with Udacity, is a massive-scale initiative designed to empower up to 100,000 learners worldwide with foundational and agentic AI skills. The program is structured in two phases: a Challenge Phase where participants gain foundational knowledge through AWS Skill Builder, followed by a Nanodegree Phase for the top 4,500 performers. This year’s curriculum focuses on the AWS AI Practitioner certification and advanced agentic AI capabilities. The program is entirely free and aims to diversify the tech talent pipeline by providing high-quality, project-based learning to individuals from underrepresented backgrounds.

Target Audience:
◦Learners aged 18 or older globally.
◦Individuals interested in building a career in AI and ML.
◦No prior technical experience is required for the initial phase.
◦Strong focus on underrepresented groups in the technology sector.

Geographic Eligibility: Global.

Tangible Benefits:
◦Free Education: Access to foundational AI training for up to 100,000 learners.
◦ Nanodegree Scholarship: Fully funded Udacity Nanodegree scholarship for the top 4,500 assessment performers.
◦Mentorship: Access to 1:1 and group mentorship sessions for Nanodegree scholars.
◦Career Services: Career readiness support and technical interview training.
◦Certification: Preparation for the AWS AI Practitioner certification.

Application Deadline: June 24, 2026.

Event Date:
◦Challenge Phase: March 24 – June 24, 2026.
◦Assessment: July 5 – July 13, 2026.
◦Nanodegree Phase: Starts October 23, 2026 (8-week duration).