Best Free AI Courses & Certificates Online in 2025

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming every industry—from healthcare and finance to transportation and education. The best part? You don’t need to spend thousands of dollars to start learning. Today, many top universities, tech companies, and platforms offer free AI courses with certificates to help you build valuable skills in machine learning, deep learning, and AI applications.

Here’s a curated list of the 10 best free AI courses and certificates online you can start today.

1. Elements of AI – University of Helsinki & MinnaLearn

This world-famous free course was designed to make AI understandable for everyone, regardless of background. It covers the basics of machine learning, neural networks, and the ethics of AI. Available in multiple languages, it has already attracted millions of learners worldwide.

2. CS50’s Introduction to AI with Python – Harvard University

Offered by Harvard, this course teaches the foundations of artificial intelligence, including search algorithms, reinforcement learning, and natural language processing. The best part: the learning content is free, and you only pay if you want a verified certificate.

3. Google AI Essentials – Coursera (Google)

Created by Google experts, this beginner-friendly program introduces AI concepts in simple terms. It demonstrates how AI is utilised in real-life scenarios and how you can apply it in the workplace. You can audit the course for free on Coursera.

4. IBM SkillsBuild – AI Courses & Certificates

IBM offers a vast library of free courses on AI, data science, and cloud computing. Through SkillsBuild, learners can earn IBM-branded certificates and gain hands-on experience with fundamental AI tools—perfect for boosting their career profile.

5. Fast.ai – Practical Deep Learning for Coders

If you know some Python and want to jump straight into deep learning, Fast.ai is a top choice. It teaches you how to build neural networks, work with computer vision, and understand natural language processing—all for free.

6. Microsoft Learn – AI Fundamentals

This free training path introduces the core concepts of AI, machine learning, and responsible AI. It’s also a helpful prep for Microsoft’s official AI certification exam—an excellent choice for professionals starting their AI journey.

7. Kaggle Learn – AI & ML Micro-Courses

Kaggle, owned by Google, provides bite-sized courses on AI, machine learning, and data science. These interactive lessons let you code in the browser, using real datasets, making it a practical and fun way to learn.

8. Stanford Online – Machine Learning (Free Audit on Coursera)

Stanford’s machine learning course, taught by Andrew Ng, is one of the most popular AI courses in the world. The free audit option gives you access to lectures and assignments that have inspired millions of AI learners.

9. DeepLearning.AI – AI for Everyone (Free Audit on Coursera)

Created by Andrew Ng and his team at DeepLearning.AI, this non-technical course helps beginners understand what AI can and cannot do. It’s ideal for professionals and managers who want to learn how AI impacts business and society.

10. OpenAI – Free AI Learning Resources & Tutorials

OpenAI provides a variety of free community tutorials, guides, and learning materials. From experimenting with GPT models to exploring responsible AI practices, these resources are a solid starting point for anyone interested in modern AI.

Top 10 FAQs About Free AI Courses & Certificates

1. What is the best free AI course for beginners?

Elements of AI by the University of Helsinki & MinnaLearn is widely considered the best starting point for beginners. It’s free, simple, and doesn’t require coding skills.

2. Can I get a free AI certificate online?

Yes. Platforms like IBM SkillsBuild, Elements of AI, and Microsoft Learn provide free certificates upon completion of their AI courses.

3. Do I need coding knowledge to take AI courses?

Not always. Courses like AI for Everyone (DeepLearning.AI) and Elements of AI don’t require coding, while Fast.ai or CS50’s AI with Python do need some programming knowledge.

4. How long does it take to complete a free AI course?

It depends on the course. Some can be finished in a few hours (Kaggle micro-courses), while others may take 4–6 weeks (Elements of AI or CS50 AI with Python).

5. Which free AI courses are best for professionals?

Google AI Essentials, Microsoft Learn AI Fundamentals, and IBM SkillsBuild are excellent options for professionals seeking practical, workplace-ready AI skills.

6. Are Coursera AI courses really free?

Yes, if you choose the “audit” option, you can access course materials for free. However, if you want a verified certificate, you usually need to pay.

7. Is Fast.ai free to use?

Yes. Fast.ai’s Practical Deep Learning for Coders is entirely free and very popular among developers and coders.

8. Which free AI course is best for managers and non-technical people?

AI for Everyone (DeepLearning.AI) is designed specifically for non-technical learners who want to understand AI’s impact on business and society.

9. Can I learn AI online without a degree?

Absolutely. Many free online AI courses from universities and companies (Harvard, Google, IBM, Microsoft) don’t require a degree and are open to anyone.

10. Do free AI certificates help in getting a job?

While free AI certificates may not carry the same weight as paid professional diplomas, they show initiative, skills, and interest—helping you stand out in applications and interviews.