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AI Course Fees and Career Opportunities in India for 2026

By upGrad

Updated on Nov 12, 2025 | 6 min read | 12.08K+ views

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Did you know? The global AI market is currently valued at around $391 billion - and it’s expected to grow nearly 9x by 2033! 

 Thinking of building a career in Artificial Intelligence, but unsure about the costs involved? AI course fees in India vary widely depending on the institute, course specialization, and program duration. On average, the fees range between INR 50,000 to INR 3,00,000, though this may fluctuate over time. 

This guide breaks down the typical fee structure and course syllabus while also highlighting the top AI career opportunities. With this information, you’ll be better equipped to make informed choices whether you’re starting your AI journey or looking to advance in this fast-growing field. 

Explore and learn more about AI with upGrad's comprehensive artificial intelligence courses and become a part of this Gen AI generation! 

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What are the Artificial Intelligence Course Fees in India? 

When beginning your journey in Artificial Intelligence, one of the most important aspects to consider is the AI course fee in India. The cost of pursuing an AI program depends on several factors, including the institute offering it, the type of course you choose, and your preferred mode of learning. 

Self-paced online courses are usually more affordable compared to full-time, classroom-based programs at renowned universities. Additionally, factors such as career support, mentorship, and industry exposure also play a role in determining the overall fee. 

Most AI courses, regardless of format, cover core subjects such as: 

  • Machine Learning (ML) 
  • Data Science 
  • Neural Networks 
  • Natural Language Processing (NLP) 

Before exploring artificial intelligence course fees in India, have a look to the AI and ML courses provided by upGrad: 

Below are the Artificial Intelligence courses and fees. 

Certificate Programs in Artificial Intelligence Course Fees in India 

AI certificate programs serve as an excellent starting point for beginners. These courses typically require a basic understanding of mathematics and programming, along with a high school diploma or bachelor’s degree. Some also accept learners with coding experience or relevant work exposure. 

Here’s a look at the AI certificate course fees in India: 

Course Name 

Duration 

Total Course Fee 
Executive Program in Generative AI for Leaders, upGrad  5 months  INR 2,25,000 
Advanced Generative AI Certification Course, upGrad  5 months  INR 1,06,000 
Professional Certificate Program in AI and Data Science, upGrad  Flexible (60+ hours session)  INR 70,000 - INR 80,000 
Microsoft Certified: Azure AI Fundamentals  Flexible  INR 8,579 (USD 99) 

Diploma in Artificial Intelligence Course Fees in India 

A diploma in AI provides more comprehensive learning than a certificate and emphasizes job-ready skills. Most diploma programs require a bachelor’s degree in computer science, mathematics, or engineering. In some cases, working professionals with IT or data experience may also be eligible. 

Prior knowledge of programming languages like Python can be a significant advantage. 

Here’s an overview of the AI diploma course fees in India: 

Course Name 

Duration 

Total Course Fee 
Executive Diploma in Machine Learning and AI with IIIT-B, upGrad  11 months  INR 3,40,000 

Executive Diploma in Data Science & AI with IIIT-B, upGrad 

 12 months  INR 3,15,000 
Master’s Degree in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science, upGrad  12 months  INR 2,75,000 
LL.M. in AI and Emerging Technologies (Blended Learning Program), upGrad  12 months  INR 4,00,000 

Online Artificial Intelligence Course Fees

Online AI courses are a popular choice for learners who value flexibility and affordability. These programs are particularly well-suited for working professionals or individuals managing busy schedules. They range from short certifications to extensive executive-level courses. 

Most online AI programs expect applicants to hold a bachelor’s degree in a technical field or demonstrate strong knowledge of mathematics and programming. 

Here’s a breakdown of the online AI course fees in India: 

Course Name 

Duration 

Total Course Fee 
Post Graduate in Data Science & AI (Executive), upGrad  6 months  INR 1,80,000 
AI-Powered Full Stack Development Course, upGrad  9 months  INR 1,83,000 
Microsoft Certified: AI Engineer Associate  Flexible  INR 4,865 

Top Colleges and Platforms Offering AI Courses in India 

India is one of the fastest-growing markets for Artificial Intelligence education, offering a wide range of AI courses through top universities and online platforms. Students can choose between on-campus degree programs at leading institutes like IITs, IIMs, Amity, and LPU. 

These programs help learners gain expertise in machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing, and data science, preparing them for high-growth AI careers in 2026 and beyond. 

Below is a consolidated comparison of the top Artificial Intelligence colleges and online platforms in India, along with their course duration, mode, and average fees: 

Institute / Platform & Course 

Duration 

Average AI Course Fees (INR) 

Mode 
IIT Hyderabad - B.Tech in Artificial Intelligence  4 Years  INR 8-12 Lakhs  On-Campus 
IIT Delhi / IIT Madras - M.Tech in Artificial Intelligence  2 Years  INR 2-4 Lakhs  On-Campus 
Amity University / LPU - B.Tech / M.Tech in AI and Data Science  3-4 Years  INR 3-7 Lakhs  On-Campus 
IIM Kozhikode - PG Programme in AI & Machine Learning  11 Months  INR 3.15 Lakhs  Online / Hybrid 

Artificial Intelligence Course Fees at International Colleges: Global Comparison 

With the increasing global demand for AI professionals, many students are also exploring international programs. These typically require a bachelor’s degree in a technical subject along with strong programming skills like Python. 

For non-native English speakers, proficiency tests such as TOEFL or IELTS are mandatory. 

Here’s a quick look at some international AI programs and their fees: 

Course Name 

Partnered With 

Duration 

Total Course Fee 
Master of Science in Machine Learning & AI  Liverpool John Moores University, UK  18 months  INR 5,65,000 
DBA in Emerging Technologies with Concentration in Generative AI  Golden Gate University, USA  36 months  INR 18,00,000 

What is the Artificial Intelligence Course Syllabus?

While AI courses may differ slightly depending on specialization, most programs cover essential topics in machine learning, programming, and real-world applications. These curricula are designed to balance theoretical foundations with hands-on projects, ensuring learners gain both conceptual understanding and practical skills. 

Here’s an overview of the common subjects included in AI courses: 

Course Module 

Topics Covered 
Introduction to AI  Fundamentals of AI: History and real-world applications  
Key AI domains: ML, NLP, Robotics, Deep Learning  
Basic Mathematics: Probability, Linear Algebra, Calculus 
Programming for AI  Python for AI: Libraries like NumPy, Pandas, Matplotlib, Scikit-learn  
Data Handling: Pre-processing, visualization, and data manipulation 
Machine Learning & Deep Learning  Supervised Learning: Linear Regression, Logistic Regression, Decision Trees  
Unsupervised Learning: K-Means, PCA  
Reinforcement Learning: Agent-based learning  
Deep Learning: Neural Networks, CNNs, RNNs 
Natural Language Processing (NLP)  Text Analysis: Tokenization, Stemming, Lemmatization  
Speech Recognition: Machine understanding of speech  
NLP Models: BERT, GPT 
AI in Real-world Applications  AI in Business: Sales forecasting, customer service automation  
AI in Healthcare: Diagnostics, personalized medicine  
AI in Robotics: Object recognition, navigation 
AI Model Deployment and Production 

Deployment: Moving AI models to production  
Cloud Platforms: AWS, Google Cloud, Azure for AI  
Scaling AI: Large datasets and high-traffic applications 
AI Ethics and Future Trends  Ethical Implications: Bias, transparency, AI safety  
Future Trends: Explainable AI, AI for social good, edge computing 
Capstone Projects & Case Studies  Hands-On Projects: Image recognition, chatbots, financial analysis  
Industry Collaboration: Real-world business problems 

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Career Opportunities After Artificial Intelligence Course 

Pursuing an Artificial Intelligence course in India can lead to high-paying roles like AI Engineer, Data Scientist, ML Engineer, Robotics Specialist, and NLP Expert. With rising demand across healthcare, finance, automation, and marketing, professionals who invest in the right artificial intelligence course fee gain strong career growth and global opportunities. 

Freshers earn around ₹6-10 LPA, while experienced professionals from advanced or high-value programs (with higher artificial intelligence and machine learning course fees) can make ₹20 LPA or more. 

Role 

Average Annual Salary (INR) 

Top Hiring Sectors 
AI Engineer Salary  17.6 LPA  IT, Automation, FinTech 
Data Scientist Salary  15.5 LPA  Finance, Retail 
Machine Learning Engineer Salary  11.3 LPA  E-commerce, Healthcare 
AI Researcher  11.5 LPA  Manufacturing, Defense 
Robotics Engineer Salary  4.8 LPA   AI Research, Tech Firms 

Source: Glassdoor 

Future Scope of Artificial Intelligence in India (2026 and beyond) 

The future of Artificial Intelligence in India is booming, offering high-demand career opportunities, global roles, and strong returns on investment for those pursuing AI courses. 

  • The AI market in India is expected to reach USD 28-35 billion by 2030, driven by rapid adoption across industries. 
  • Key growth sectors include healthcare, finance, retail, manufacturing, and education. 
  • Government initiatives like Digital India and private sector investments are boosting AI research and automation. 
  • Completing an Artificial Intelligence course in India provides high employability and global opportunities. 
  • Advanced programs, even with higher artificial intelligence and machine learning course fees, offer strong ROI through career growth and international placements. 
  • Remote and cross-border AI roles are expanding, increasing opportunities for skilled professionals. 
  • The demand for AI experts is expected to outpace supply, making 2026 the ideal time to upskill. 
  • Investing in the course fee of Artificial Intelligence is a strategic move for long-term salary growth and career advancement. 

Also Read: Future Scope of Artificial Intelligence in Various Industries

How to Choose the Right AI Course?

Selecting the right Artificial Intelligence course in India is crucial to maximize learning outcomes and career opportunities, especially when considering the artificial intelligence course fee or artificial intelligence and machine learning course fees.  

Here’s a step-by-step checklist to help you choose:

  1. Assess Your Skill Level - Determine if you are a beginner, intermediate, or advanced learner. Beginner-friendly programs usually have lower course fee of Artificial Intelligence, while advanced courses may cost more but offer deeper expertise. 
  2. Check Course Duration - Short-term certifications (3-6 months) are ideal for working professionals, while full-time UG/PG programs provide comprehensive learning over 1-4 years. 
  3. Choose a Specialization - Decide whether you want to focus on Machine Learning, NLP, Computer Vision, Robotics, or AI for Business. Specialized courses often have different artificial intelligence and machine learning course fees. 
  4. Consider Placement Support - Look for programs that offer internships, mentorship, and placement assistance. Strong support ensures better ROI on the artificial intelligence course fees in India you invest. 
  5. Evaluate Mode of Learning - Choose between online, offline, or hybrid courses based on your flexibility and schedule. Online programs like upGrad’s AI & ML courses provide industry-relevant projects and global certifications. 
  6. Review Alumni Outcomes - Check past graduates’ career growth, salary hikes, and hiring companies to ensure the program justifies the course fee of Artificial Intelligence.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the average artificial intelligence course fee in India? 

The average artificial intelligence course fee in India ranges from ₹40,000 for short-term certifications to ₹12,00,000 for postgraduate programs, depending on course type, duration, institution, and mode of learning, including online and offline options. 

 

 

2. Why do AI course fees vary across different institutions?

AI course fees vary due to factors like institution reputation, course duration, level of specialization, faculty expertise, mode of delivery, and added benefits such as mentorship, projects, and career support. Premium programs cost more due to their global recognition. 

 

3. Are online AI courses more affordable than offline programs?

 Yes, online AI courses are generally more affordable, ranging from ₹40,000-₹1,50,000. Offline or university-based programs, such as B.Tech or M.Tech in AI, can cost ₹2,50,000-₹12,00,000, reflecting infrastructure, faculty, and hands-on lab access. 
 

 

4. How much does a certification in AI typically cost? 

Certification courses, ideal for beginners or working professionals, usually range between ₹40,000-₹1,50,000. They are short-term, often 3-12 months, focusing on practical skills and industry-relevant projects in machine learning, NLP, and computer vision. 

 

 

5. What is the fee for a diploma in artificial intelligence? 

Diploma programs in AI range from ₹1,00,000-₹3,00,000 for 1-2 years. They offer deeper technical knowledge than certifications, covering Python, ML algorithms, deep learning, NLP, and hands-on projects for practical learning. 

 

6. How much do undergraduate AI programs cost in India? 

Undergraduate programs like B.Tech or B.Sc in AI range from ₹2,50,000-₹8,00,000 per year. Duration is typically 3-4 years, providing foundational knowledge in AI, data science, programming, and real-world applications. 

 

7. What are the fees for postgraduate AI programs in India? 

Postgraduate AI programs, including M.Tech, M.Sc, or MBA in AI, cost approximately ₹3,00,000-₹12,00,000 for two years. They provide advanced technical knowledge, research exposure, and specialization in areas like NLP, computer vision, and deep learning. 

 

8. Are international AI programs more expensive than Indian courses? 

Yes, international AI programs offered online or in hybrid mode cost ₹8,00,000-₹25,00,000. These programs often provide global recognition, advanced curriculum, and networking opportunities with international peers, making them more premium than domestic courses. 

 

9. How do AI course fees relate to career outcomes? 

Higher fees often reflect advanced curriculum, mentorship, industry projects, and placement support, which can lead to better career outcomes. However, ROI depends on course quality, skill acquisition, and industry demand for AI professionals. 

 

10. Does upGrad offer affordable AI programs with good ROI? 

Yes, upGrad offers a range of AI programs from ₹1,25,000-₹8,50,000, including certifications, PG, and global master’s programs. Courses combine mentorship, live projects, and placement assistance, ensuring strong career growth and return on investment. 

 

11. Can working professionals afford AI courses? 

Absolutely. Many AI programs are part-time or online, allowing professionals to learn without leaving jobs. Fees are flexible with installment options, making AI education accessible to working individuals seeking skill upgrades or career transition. 

 

12. Are scholarships or financial aid available for AI courses? 

Yes, platforms like upGrad offer scholarships, early-bird discounts, and financial aid options. Some universities and edtech providers also provide EMI facilities or income-based support, reducing the upfront cost of AI courses significantly. 

 

13. How does course duration affect AI fees? 

Longer programs like UG or PG degrees cost more due to extended curriculum and lab infrastructure. Short-term certifications are cheaper as they focus on practical skills over theory and typically last 3-12 months. 

 

14. Are AI course fees worth the investment? 

Yes, considering India’s AI job market is growing rapidly, paying ₹40,000-₹12,00,000 for skill-based programs is often justified. Graduates can earn competitive salaries, gain industry recognition, and work in emerging AI domains. 

 

15. What are the typical payment options for AI courses? 

Most AI courses offer one-time payment, EMI plans, or scholarships. Online platforms and universities often provide flexible monthly or quarterly installments, making it easier for students and professionals to manage costs. 

 

16. Do higher AI course fees guarantee better placements? 

Not necessarily. While premium programs often have industry connections, mentorship, and project exposure, career outcomes depend on the learner’s skills, portfolio, and ability to apply AI knowledge effectively in real-world scenarios. 

 

17. How does upGrad structure its AI course fees? 

UpGrad structures fees based on program type and duration, ranging from certifications (~₹1,25,000) to global master’s (~₹8,50,000). The fees include live classes, projects, mentorship, and career support, ensuring learners gain practical and job-ready AI skills. 

 

18. Are there hidden costs in AI courses besides the tuition fee? 

Most programs have transparent fees, but some may include optional costs for additional workshops, software licenses, or on-campus visits in hybrid programs. It’s important to check the course details before enrollment. 

 

19. Can students negotiate AI course fees? 

While standard fees are fixed, learners can explore scholarships, early-bird discounts, or corporate tie-ups. UpGrad and other platforms offer financial aid programs to ensure deserving candidates can access quality AI education. 

 

20. How can I choose the AI course with the best fee-to-value ratio? 

Compare programs based on curriculum, mentorship, hands-on projects, alumni success, placement support, and fees. Courses like upGrad balance affordability with ROI, ensuring learners gain practical skills, industry recognition, and career growth in AI. 

21. Can I pay monthly for AI certification programs?

Yes, many AI certification programs - including those offered through platforms like upGrad - provide flexible monthly payment or EMI (Equated Monthly Installment) options. This allows learners to spread out the program fee over several months instead of paying it up front.

For example, upGrad offers no-cost EMI plans with top universities for its AI and Machine Learning programs, letting you start learning with minimal upfront payment. The monthly cost and duration of the EMI plan may vary depending on the total program fee, tenure selected, and the financial partner.

If you’re considering enrolling, check the program’s payment section or speak with an enrolment counsellor to understand:

  • The available EMI duration (e.g., 3, 6, 9, or 12 months)
  • Any processing fees (if applicable)
  • Minimum eligibility or documentation required

References:

https://explodingtopics.com/blog/ai-statistics 

https://www.rwskill.edu.in/blog/growth-of-the-ai-industry-in-india-by-2030-trajectories-enablers-and-scenarios/#:~:text=With%20coherent%20execution%2C%20India%20can,%2C%20skills%2C%20and%20responsible%20AI.

https://iith.ac.in/academics/fee-structure/
https://mtechadm.iitm.ac.in/M.Tech._Fees_2024.pdf
https://www.amity.edu/aset/programmes-PG.asp
https://iimkozhikode.emeritus.org/iimk-ai-officer-programme?utm_source=Google&utm_medium=Search&utm_campaign=B-365D_IN_GG_SE_IIMK-AIO.SEPO_Brand_Phrase&utm_content=IIMK_AI_Courses&utm_term=Iim%20kozhikode%20ai%20course&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22504005772&gbraid=0AAAAACz6rRKxA9tnaZ2Wf2Mc2oV4udsvW&gclid=CjwKCAiA_dDIBhB6EiwAvzc1cPCPAdD8Q9JyRZmolert2DPmumNwZEXcwguE4rgF8cxFM45NTI9aHBoCNGUQAvD_BwE
https://www.ambitionbox.com/profile/ai-engineer-salary
https://www.ambitionbox.com/profile/machine-learning-engineer-salary
https://www.ambitionbox.com/profile/data-scientist-salary
https://www.ambitionbox.com/profile/artificial-intelligence-researcher-salary
https://www.ambitionbox.com/profile/robotics-engineer-salary

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