Google DeepMind AI Master’s Scholarships 2026–2027 at GATE Institute, Sofia University (Fully Funded): Apply for Up to USD 28,695 to Study Artificial Intelligence in Bulgaria

Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming industries, economies, and societies across the world. As the demand for highly skilled AI professionals continues to grow, access to quality postgraduate education has become increasingly important for aspiring researchers, engineers, data scientists, and technology innovators.

To help nurture the next generation of AI experts, the GATE Institute at Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski” has officially opened applications for the Google DeepMind AI Master’s Scholarships 2026–2027. This prestigious scholarship programme offers two fully funded scholarships for outstanding students pursuing Master’s studies in Artificial Intelligence and related disciplines at the Faculty of Mathematics and Informatics (FMI), Sofia University.

The initiative is funded through Google DeepMind, one of the world’s leading artificial intelligence research organizations, with the objective of increasing access to advanced AI education while supporting talented students from diverse backgrounds who demonstrate academic excellence and financial need.

Unlike previous years, where only one scholarship was available, the 2026–2027 academic year introduces two fully funded scholarships, doubling the opportunity for deserving students to pursue graduate education in one of Europe’s leading AI research environments.

Applicants selected for this highly competitive programme will receive comprehensive financial support throughout their studies, enabling them to concentrate on academic excellence, research, innovation, and professional development without the burden of financial constraints.

About the Google DeepMind AI Master’s Scholarships

The Google DeepMind AI Master’s Scholarships are designed to encourage talented individuals to pursue advanced education in artificial intelligence and computer science while promoting greater diversity and inclusion within the technology sector.

Since its launch in 2017, Google DeepMind has partnered with universities worldwide to provide scholarship opportunities that support students with exceptional academic potential who may face financial barriers to postgraduate education.

The scholarship programme has expanded significantly over the years and has supported scholars at universities across numerous countries, including:

• Bulgaria
• Colombia
• Greece
• Poland
• Romania
• South Africa
• Turkey
• United Kingdom
• United States
• Canada
• France

The programme aims to strengthen the global AI ecosystem by empowering talented students with access to world-class education, research opportunities, and professional networks.

Study at Sofia University’s Faculty of Mathematics and Informatics

Successful applicants will undertake their Master’s studies at the Faculty of Mathematics and Informatics (FMI), one of Bulgaria’s leading institutions for mathematics, computer science, artificial intelligence, and information technologies.

Students admitted through the scholarship programme will become part of an academic environment recognized for excellence in research, innovation, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Eligible Master’s programmes include:

• Artificial Intelligence
• Information Retrieval and Knowledge Discovery
• Big Data Technologies

Each of these programmes prepares students with advanced theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to address complex technological challenges in academia, industry, and research.

Scholarship Benefits

Each scholarship provides financial support throughout the entire 18-month duration of the eligible Master’s programme.

The indicative total funding available to each successful scholar is:

USD 28,695.06

The scholarship package covers numerous educational and personal expenses, ensuring scholars can dedicate their full attention to their studies.

Financial support includes:

• Full tuition fees for the Master’s programme
• Housing expenses
• Living costs
• Academic travel support
• Equipment expenses
• Relocation expenses
• Access to AI-related academic conferences

This comprehensive funding package enables students to participate fully in academic activities, international conferences, research collaborations, and professional development opportunities without significant financial concerns.

Why This Scholarship Matters

Artificial intelligence continues to reshape sectors such as:

• Healthcare
• Finance
• Agriculture
• Manufacturing
• Transportation
• Cybersecurity
• Climate research
• Education
• Public administration

The Google DeepMind AI Master’s Scholarships aim to prepare graduates capable of contributing innovative AI solutions to these and many other sectors.

The increase from one scholarship to two scholarships demonstrates the growing commitment of Google DeepMind and GATE Institute to developing future AI specialists and making postgraduate education more accessible.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must satisfy all scholarship eligibility requirements before applying.

To qualify, candidates must:

• Be ordinarily resident in Bulgaria or another European Union (EU) Member State.
• Achieve a candidate-student examination success rate of at least 4.50.
• Hold a Bachelor’s degree with a minimum overall grade of 4.50.
• Apply for and be admitted to one of the eligible Master’s programmes at Sofia University for the 2026–2027 academic year.
• Meet the scholarship programme’s financial eligibility criteria.

Financial Eligibility Requirements

Financial need forms an important component of the selection process.

Eligibility will be determined based on:

• Total household income.
• Number of family members living within the household.

The calculated income per household member must fall below the minimum salary level in Bulgaria as of 1 January 2026.

Applicants should prepare supporting financial documentation to demonstrate compliance with these requirements.

Required Application Documents

Applicants must submit a complete application package before the deadline.

Required documents include:

• Completed scholarship application form
• Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Motivation letter
• Bachelor’s degree diploma and/or academic transcripts demonstrating academic performance
• Financial eligibility documents
• Proof of application or admission to one of the eligible Master’s programmes
• Additional supporting documents where applicable

Only complete applications submitted before the deadline will be considered.

Selection Process

Applications will be assessed by an independent selection panel comprising:

• Professors from the Faculty of Mathematics and Informatics, Sofia University
• Representatives of GATE Institute

The evaluation process will include:

1. Eligibility Verification

Applicants will first be assessed to ensure they satisfy all scholarship eligibility requirements.

2. Academic Assessment

The panel will evaluate:

• Academic achievements
• Degree performance
• Examination results
• Educational background

3. Motivation and Qualifications

The committee will carefully examine:

• Motivation letter
• Curriculum Vitae
• Relevant experience
• Professional qualifications
• Career aspirations
• Potential contribution to the AI field

4. Financial Assessment

Financial documentation will be reviewed to determine whether applicants satisfy the programme’s financial eligibility requirements.

Following the evaluation process:

• Two scholarship recipients will be selected.
• One additional candidate will be placed on a waiting list.

The final nomination of scholars will be completed by 31 October 2026.

Important Dates

Applicants should carefully note the following timeline:

Applicants are encouraged to begin preparing their documentation early to avoid last-minute delays.

About GATE Institute

The GATE Institute is Bulgaria’s first Centre of Excellence dedicated to Big Data and Artificial Intelligence.

The institute brings together:

• Researchers
• Students
• Industry experts
• Government institutions
• International partners

Its mission is to develop cutting-edge technologies and innovative data-driven solutions addressing important societal and economic challenges.

Students studying within the GATE research environment benefit from:

• Interdisciplinary collaboration
• AI research projects
• Big Data technologies
• Machine learning applications
• Innovation ecosystems
• International partnerships
• Exposure to real-world technological challenges

This research-rich environment provides excellent preparation for careers in academia, research institutions, technology companies, startups, and international organizations.

Visit HERE to know more about the Google DeepMind AI Master’s Scholarships 2026–2027 at GATE Institute, Sofia University

Why You Should Apply

The Google DeepMind AI Master’s Scholarships provide far more than financial assistance.

Successful scholars will gain:

• Access to one of Europe’s emerging AI research centres.
• Full financial support throughout their Master’s studies.
• Opportunities to attend AI conferences.
• Exposure to interdisciplinary research.
• Professional networking opportunities.
• Hands-on experience with cutting-edge AI technologies.
• Preparation for careers in research and industry.

For students passionate about artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science, and related technologies, this represents an exceptional opportunity to earn a postgraduate degree while minimizing financial barriers.

How to Apply

Interested applicants should complete the official scholarship application form before the deadline.

Application Deadline: 09 October 2026

Applicants should ensure all required supporting documents are included before submission.

APPLY HERE

For additional enquiries: career@gate-ai.eu

Conclusion

The Google DeepMind AI Master’s Scholarships 2026–2027 at GATE Institute and Sofia University offer one of the most attractive fully funded postgraduate opportunities available in Europe for students pursuing careers in artificial intelligence. By expanding the programme from one scholarship to two, Google DeepMind and GATE Institute are strengthening their commitment to supporting talented students and advancing innovation in AI.

With funding worth approximately USD 28,695.06, coverage of tuition fees, living expenses, housing, academic travel, equipment, relocation costs, and conference participation, recipients will have the financial freedom to focus entirely on their education and research. Students who meet the academic and financial eligibility requirements are strongly encouraged to apply before 09 October 2026 and take advantage of this outstanding opportunity to study in a dynamic research environment dedicated to shaping the future of artificial intelligence.

For more global Scholarship opportunities visit OFY HERE