MBZUAI AIR – AI Reach

Participants will:

• Strengthen their Python programming skills through an intensive refresher integrated into the program and apply them daily in hands-on AI research
• Build and experiment with advanced AI systems, including large language models, gaining insight into how data, model architecture, and training decisions affect model behavior and performance
• Explore image generation, multimodal AI, and robotics through guided labs and experimentation
• Conduct a collaborative research project in small teams, mentored by MBZUAI researchers and graduate students, from defining a research question to testing ideas and presenting findings
• Experience how AI research is conducted at the university level through critical analysis, iteration, and problem-solving rather than traditional lectures

• A competitive, cohort-based research program designed for high-achieving students
• Close mentorship from MBZUAI faculty, researchers, and graduate students
• Small-group research projects emphasizing technical rigor, collaboration, and independent thinking
• Interactive discussions connecting research work to real-world AI systems and current research challenges
• Exposure to university life at MBZUAI, including a formal final research showcase
• Guided cultural experiences in Abu Dhabi, introducing students to Emirati history and culture, with visits to landmarks such as the Presidential Palace, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, teamLab Phenomena, and the Natural History Museum

Participants will learn how modern AI systems are built and studied through hands-on work and guided research. Learning areas will include:

• How machines learn from data, and how training decisions influence model performance and limitations
• How large language models process and generate text, and how design choices shape their behavior
• How AI systems work across images and multiple data modalities through image generation and multimodal models
• Core Python programming skills used in AI research, including experimentation, debugging, and model training
• Fundamentals of robotics and intelligent systems through practical labs and demonstrations
• Principles of ethical, safe, and responsible AI development in real-world systems

Activities emphasize learning by doing—building, experimenting, iterating, and collaborating—providing students with a realistic introduction to advanced, university-level AI research.

AI Reach is fully funded and designed to provide a safe, structured, and well-supported environment for all participants:

• Accommodation: Supervised, on-campus housing for the duration of the program
• Campus access: Structured access to MBZUAI’s academic facilities, student spaces, and research resources
• Travel support: Full travel assistance, including visa support, round-trip airfare, and airport transfers
• Activities and supervision: A carefully planned and fully supervised schedule of academic, social, recreational, and cultural activities

AI Reach offers students an early, serious introduction to advanced AI research within a graduate-level research university. Through selective admissions, close mentorship, and immersive project-based work, the program reflects the rigor, culture, and expectations of leading research institutions worldwide—while remaining intentionally small and focused.

Applications close on 31 March, 2026

Online application

Applications for the 2026 AI Reach program will open on 8 February, 2026.

Eligibility

The MBZUAI AI Reach (AIR) – High School Summer Research Program is open to high-achieving high school students with a strong interest in artificial intelligence and STEM disciplines.

Applicants must meet all of the following criteria:

• Currently enrolled high school students, typically aged 16–18.
• Strong academic performance in STEM subjects and math in particular 90% and above (or equivalent in the applicant’s education system).
• Interest in artificial intelligence, technology, or related fields.
• Ability to participate fully in an on-campus program in Abu Dhabi.
• High school English grade of 90% or above (or equivalent in the applicant’s education system).

No prior research experience is required. Selection is based on academic readiness, motivation, and demonstrated curiosity.

Required documentation

Applicants must submit the following documents as part of the online application:

• 
  High school transcript(s)
• 
  Proof of English proficiency: either

  • - an official school letter confirming English is the medium of instruction, or
  • - a valid English Language Proficiency (ELP) test result
• 
  Passport copy: clear coloured copy. The passport’s expiration date must be after 31 December, 2026.
• 
  Passport size photo: with a white background
• 
  Curriculum Vitae (CV), highlighting:

  • - Academic background and extracurricular activities
  • - Achievements, competitions, projects, or publications (if applicable)
• 
  Statement of Purpose (SoP), covering:

  • - Motivation for applying to the AIR program
  • - Learning goals for the AIR program
  • - Future academic and career aspirations