About the opportunity
The HP-UCL IOE Fellowship in AI in Education is a global fellowship delivered by the UCL Institute of Education and HP. It equips senior policymakers and organisational leaders to lead AI transformation responsibly. Bringing together expertise in AI, learning sciences, policy, ethics, and human-computer interaction, the programme supports participants in moving beyond the hype surrounding AI and explores its impact on education and public institutions. Through engagement with global peers, researchers, and industry experts, fellows address real-world challenges and develop learning-centred strategies that strengthen inclusion, institutional capacity, and effective AI adoption. The 12-month hybrid programme combines weekly live online sessions, a one-week residential in London, and a 9-month mentored capstone project addressing a live challenge within the fellow’s organisation.
Funding and benefits
- All programme costs and tuition fees covered upon acceptance
- Accommodation and catering covered during the residential week in London
- Expert academic instruction and mentorship from UCL Institute of Education faculty
- Engagement with a selective international cohort of senior education leaders
- Development of a 9-month mentored capstone project addressing a live organizational challenge
Who can apply?
- Open to senior education policymakers, system leaders, and organisational leaders
- Applicants must work in Europe, Asia, or Africa
- Suitable roles include ministry officials, education regulators, C-suite edtech executives, regional education directors, trust CEOs, and education non-profit leaders
- Applicants must have the authority to influence AI decisions, strategies, or procurement within their organisation or system
- Must have employer support and commitment to enable full attendance across all components
Required documents
- Personal statement (maximum 4 pages) covering professional background, motivation, and an outline of a potential capstone or leadership project
- Letter of support from the employer or sponsoring organisation confirming commitment to release time and participation
When to apply
- Applications open: 29 June 2026
- Application deadline: 7 November 2026
- Notification of outcomes: 16 November 2026
- Programme start date: 11 January 2027
How to apply
- Complete the online application form via the UCL programme website
- Submit the required 4-page personal statement
- Secure and submit a signed letter of support from your employer
Additional information
- Travel costs for the residential week in London and evening meals are the responsibility of the participant
- The programme does not require a technical background in AI
- For inquiries, contact hp-ucl-aied@ucl.ac.uk
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Senior leaders and policymakers in education systems across Europe, Asia, and Africa looking to build robust ethical frameworks and procurement strategies for AI.
- Professionals seeking structured mentorship and academic guidance from top-tier researchers to solve an active institutional challenge via a capstone project.
- Leaders wanting to join an elite global network of peers navigating identical digital transformation decisions.
What should you think carefully about?
- Airfares and visa expenses for the London residential week are not covered and must be self-funded.
- Applicants must commit approximately half a day per week for 12 months, requiring explicit employer buy-in and release time.
- In-person attendance at the one-week residential in London (scheduled for April 2027) is strictly mandatory.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This fellowship is exceptionally well-suited for high-level decision-makers aiming to translate high-stakes artificial intelligence concepts into actionable, defensible institutional policies without requiring deep technical coding skills.
Our take
Senior education leaders and policymakers with institutional decision-making authority who are ready to commit to a 12-month hybrid journey should apply; classroom teachers or individual practitioners looking for curriculum-level teaching methods should seek alternative UCL courses.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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