As AI systems become integrated into critical infrastructure, healthcare, and robotics, the need for “Reliability” has moved from a luxury to a requirement. The 2026 Konrad Zuse School of Excellence in Reliable AI (relAI) MSc Program is a premier initiative designed to train the next generation of AI leaders in the art of building safe, secure, and responsible systems.
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Hosted by Germany’s top-tier universities—Technical University of Munich (TUM) and Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU)—this program is not a standalone degree but an elite enhancement to your regular Master’s studies. It provides selected scholars with specialized training, industry exposure, and a significant €992 monthly stipend to support their journey toward becoming experts in Trustworthy AI.
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2026 Konrad Zuse School AI Scholarship (relAI) Summary Table
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Host Institutions | TUM Munich & LMU Munich |
| Awarding Body | Konrad Zuse School of Excellence (relAI) |
| Primary Benefit | Up to €992 Monthly Stipend + Travel Grants |
| Research Focus | Reliable, Safe, and Responsible AI |
| Degree Level | Master of Science (MSc) Enhancement |
| Application Deadline | June 15, 2026 (23:59 AOE) |
About the Initiative 2026
The relAI MSc program is a cross-disciplinary academic pathway that runs parallel to a standard Master’s degree at TUM or LMU. In the 2026 cycle, the school continues to bridge the gap between theoretical AI and real-world reliability.
Participants are integrated into a vibrant scientific community where they engage in scientific coursework and professional development. The program is heavily research-driven, offering students direct access to leading AI experts and industrial partners. This ensures that graduates are not just technically proficient but also understand the ethical and safety implications of their work.
Core Research Areas
Applicants should align their interests with one or more of the following relAI pillars:
- Mathematical and Algorithmic Foundations: Ensuring the core logic of AI is robust.
- Algorithmic Decision-Making: Transparency and fairness in automated choices.
- Medicine and Healthcare: Reliable AI for diagnostics and patient care.
- Robotics and Interacting Systems: Safety in human-robot collaboration.
- Learning and Instruction: Trustworthy educational AI tools.
Benefits of the 2026 Konrad Zuse School AI Scholarship (relAI)
- Monthly Stipend: Financial support of up to €992 per month for the duration of the program.
- Travel Grants: Funding for international conferences and home travel support for international students.
- Mentorship: Personalized academic and professional guidance from senior AI researchers.
- Industrial Exposure: Networking opportunities with leading tech firms in the Munich ecosystem.
- Resource Access: Full integration into the research facilities of both TUM and LMU.
Eligibility and Requirements
- Academic Background: An excellent Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Mathematics, Engineering, Natural Sciences, or Data Science/AI-related fields.
- Core Interest: A demonstrated passion for Reliable AI topics (Safety, Security, Privacy, and Responsibility).
- Language: Certified proficiency in English (as the program is conducted in English).
- University Status: Applicants must either be enrolled in or applying for a Master’s program at TUM or LMU Munich.
Phase Application Guide for the 2026 relAI Program
Phase 1: University Admission (TUM or LMU)
- Ensure you have submitted (or are in the process of submitting) an application for a regular Master’s program at TUM or LMU.
- The relAI program is an enhancement, so you must have a “host” degree program to be eligible.
Phase 2: Statement of Motivation
- Draft a compelling statement highlighting your interest in Reliability.
- Explain how your chosen research area (e.g., Healthcare or Robotics) fits within the relAI framework.
- Apply the STAR Technique to showcase your previous technical achievements.
Phase 3: Portfolio & Documentation
- Collect your Bachelor’s degree certificate and full academic transcripts.
- Prepare your English proficiency certificate (TOEFL/IELTS).
- Update your CV to emphasize projects related to AI ethics, safety, or robust coding.
Phase 4: Online Application Submission
- Visit the official relAI Application Portal through the link Jamnet proved below.
- Complete the application form and upload your PDFs.
- Ensure your submission is finalized before the June 15, 2026 deadline.
Phase 5: Interview and Selection
- Shortlisted candidates will be invited for a technical interview.
- Prepare to discuss current trends in AI Safety and your specific research goals.
- Wait for the selection announcement (usually in late summer).
Jamnet Expert Advice
- Be Specific about “Reliability”: Don’t just say you like AI. Explain why you care about Reliable AI. Mention specific challenges like adversarial attacks, data privacy, or model interpretability.
- Apply the SMART Method: When describing your research goals, ensure they are Specific, Measurable, and Relevant to the relAI pillars.
- Proactive Tip: Munich is a global hub for AI. In your application, mention specific labs at TUM or LMU you are interested in, as this shows you have done your research on the ecosystem.
Deadline: June 15, 2026
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is this a separate Master’s degree? No, it is an enhancement program. You must be enrolled in a regular Master’s at TUM or LMU to participate.
2. Can international students apply? Yes! The program is open to students worldwide and even provides home travel support as part of the scholarship.
3. What is the “AOE” deadline? AOE stands for Anywhere on Earth. This means as long as it is still June 15 anywhere in the world, you can submit.
4. Do I need to speak German? No. The program is conducted entirely in English, though learning some German will help with daily life in Munich.
5. How much is the scholarship? Funded participants receive up to €992 per month.
6. Which subjects are eligible? Mainly Computer Science, Math, and Engineering. However, if your Natural Science degree had a heavy focus on Machine Learning, you may still be eligible.
7. Can I work a part-time job while on the scholarship? The scholarship is intended to allow you to focus full-time on your studies. There are usually limits on additional income; check the specific contract details upon admission.
8. What if I already have a scholarship? You may not be able to “double-dip” two full living stipends. You should disclose any existing funding during the application process.
9. Is there an interview? Yes, the selection process typically involves a technical interview with relAI faculty.
10. When does the program start? The program usually aligns with the start of the winter semester (October) at TUM and LMU.
