Artificial Intelligence Course Fees and Duration [2025]
Artificial Intelligence was once an advanced tech area that surrounded only a few people working on, but for a decade now, the AI Boom has become prominent, especially in the technical hubs in India.
Even with industries other than tech, such as healthcare, fintech, and e-commerce, they use AI for its effective outcomes. As a result, more students and working professionals are exploring AI courses in India to gain relevant skills and certifications.
When it comes to AI course fees and duration, it totally depends on the kind of program you require. Costs vary widely depending on whether you choose a short-term online certification, a mentor-led professional program, or a premium institute-backed diploma. Similarly, course duration can range from a few weeks to over a year based on depth and specialization.
So, if you wish to know which course might suit you best, we have prepared this piece on AI course fees in India by program type, expected timelines, and the kind of career outcomes you can expect. Whether you’re a beginner or a professional planning to upskill, understanding these factors will help you pick the course that fits your goals and budget.
What are the AI Course Fees in India?
The cost of AI course fees in India can range anywhere from ₹50,000 to over ₹5,00,000, depending on the type of program you choose. Short-term online certifications and introductory courses are usually budget-friendly, while advanced diplomas or degree programs from top institutes are on the costlier side.
Several factors influence these fees:
- Type of Program: Basic certification courses or nano-degree programs are more affordable, while postgraduate diplomas and master’s degrees are significantly more expensive due to their academic depth and credentials.
- Mode of Learning: Online programs tend to cost less because they eliminate infrastructure costs and offer flexibility. Offline or hybrid formats, especially those involving campus sessions, are priced higher.
- Institution Brand: Courses from prestigious institutes like IITs, global universities, or top industry platforms (such as Google, IBM, or Stanford) command higher fees because of their credibility and global recognition.
- Duration and Depth: A two-week introductory course will naturally cost less than a 12-month program that includes mentorship, hands-on projects, and career support.
For learners, it’s important to match the AI course fees with career goals. Beginners might benefit from affordable short-term certifications, while professionals planning a career switch could see more value in premium, institute-backed programs and those that have strong placement support.
AI Courses Fees Breakdown by Program Type
1. Certificate Programs in AI
Certificate programs are best suited for credibility. Having a course certification that proves your specialization works best during interviews and even enhances your resume. That’s why at Scaler, we provide an ideal structured program designed for learners who would like lectures, guidance, and everything that requires growth.
If you’re considering various other options like Coursera, Udemy, or edX, then always look for programs that cover specific areas such as Python for AI, machine learning basics, or deep learning frameworks, as these components are the most important while specializing in AI.
Fees for these programs typically range from ₹20,000 to ₹1,00,000, depending on the provider and the depth of the curriculum. Since most are self-paced, they’re accessible to students and working professionals alike.
Duration is relatively short, usually between 3 and 9 months, making these courses ideal for those who want to pick up new skills without a long-term commitment. While certificates may not carry the same weight as a diploma or degree, they’re still valuable additions to your resume, especially when combined with portfolio projects.
Who is it best for?
Beginners or early-stage professionals who want a budget-friendly introduction to AI and prefer flexible, self-paced learning options.
2. Diploma in AI (Online & Offline)
Certifications do provide credibility, but you can see diploma courses as programs falling between a degree and an external course. Here, the modules are more elaborate, covering broader aspects of AI and ML. Institutes like NIIT, IIIT-Bangalore (through collaborations), upGrad, and IITs provide such programs, often including live classes, mentorship, and capstone projects.
AI diploma course fees for these programs usually fall between ₹50,000 and ₹2,00,000, depending on the institution and whether the course is delivered online or offline. While online options are more affordable and flexible, offline programs provide more institutional and on-ground resources.
Duration is typically 6 to 12 months, which makes them a manageable option for both students and working professionals.
Who is it best for? Professionals or graduates who want structured training and stronger credentials than a basic certificate, without committing to a multi-year degree.
3. PG/Advanced Degree AI Programs
Postgraduate and advanced degree programs in AI are good options if you would like to go in-depth academically. These programs are offered by institutes like IIT Madras, ISB, Amity, and international universities.
IIT Course fees for these programs typically range between ₹2,00,000 and ₹7,00,000 or more, as their curriculum contains depth, and the brand value of the institute also matters. Global programs are usually costlier for their international faculty and alumni networks.
Duration is generally 1 to 2 years, so once you join the program, it becomes a serious commitment till completion. While expensive, these programs are best suited for those aiming for long-term careers in AI, research roles, or leadership positions in tech-driven companies.
Who is it best for?
Mid- to senior-level professionals or students who want maximum academic credibility, global exposure, and in-depth expertise in AI.
4. Online Bootcamps & Nanodegrees
Bootcamps and nanodegrees are focused, intensive programs designed to get you industry-ready in a shorter time. Platforms like Udacity, Scaler, Great Learning, and Simplilearn offer these programs with a strong emphasis on practical projects, mentorship, and career support.
Fees for these courses generally range between ₹30,000 and ₹2,50,000, depending on the provider, curriculum, and additional features like mock interviews or placement drives.
Duration varies from 4 to 12 months, which makes it a great option for working professionals who want to upskill quickly without committing to a multi-year degree.
Who is it best for?
Early- to mid-career professionals who want practical, career-oriented AI training with strong placement and mentorship support.
AI Course Fees in India by Price Brackets
AI courses in India are available across a wide range of price points. The right choice depends on your career goals, budget, and the level of depth you’re seeking. Here we have listed the typical fee brackets and what they offer:
AI Courses Under ₹50,000
Affordable and flexible, these programs are often available on platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning. They’re best suited for beginners who want to build foundational skills without making a large financial commitment.
Here’s a list you can check out:
- Coursera: AI for Everyone (Andrew Ng)
- Scaler Certificates
- LinkedIn Learning: AI Learning Path
- Fast.ai: Practical Deep Learning for Coders
- Google AI Essentials
Best for: Students, freshers, or professionals curious about AI and exploring it for the first time.
AI Courses Under ₹1 Lakh
This bracket includes structured online programs from providers like Great Learning, Simplilearn, and many others. These courses are on the affordable side for the kind of curriculum and practical exposure they provide.
Here’s a list you can check out:
- Great Learning: PG Program in AI & ML
- Simplilearn: AI & Machine Learning Course
- Internshala: Generative AI Course
- IBM Applied AI (Coursera Professional Certificate)
Best for: Learners who want more than just a certificate and are looking for guided training at a reasonable cost.
AI Courses ₹1 Lakh - ₹5 Lakh
In this range, you’ll find advanced certifications and diplomas and programs from institutions like IIIT-Bangalore, IITs, Scaler, and top Indian universities. These courses offer deeper coverage of AI concepts, industry-grade projects, and institutional credibility, which makes them ideal for professionals planning a career switch.
You can check out these courses:
- Scaler: AI & ML Certificate (entry-level)
- IIIT-Bangalore: PG Diploma in AI & ML
- IIT Madras: Online BSc/BS in Data Science & AI
- IIT Bombay: ePGD in AI & Data Science
- ISB: Certificate Program in AI & ML
- HarvardX: AI and ML with Python (edX)
Best for: Serious learners who want a strong credential and career-ready skills for mid- to senior-level AI roles.
AI Courses Over ₹5 Lakh
Premium programs from international universities such as Stanford, MIT, ISB, and INSEAD fall in this bracket. While they do seem expensive, they provide global recognition, academic prestige, and often lifelong alumni benefits. They are seen as long-term investments for those aiming at global opportunities.
Here are some courses you can check out:
- Stanford AI Professional Program (Online)
- MIT: Introduction to Deep Learning & Extensions
- INSEAD: AI Strategy for Business Leaders
- ISB + International Executive Programs in AI
Best for: Professionals seeking international exposure, leadership roles, or research-focused AI careers.
Comparison Table: AI Course Fees in India
| Price Bracket | Typical Platforms/Institutes | Duration | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under ₹50,000 | Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, Scaler Certificates | 1-6 months | Beginners, students, casual learners |
| ₹50,000 - ₹1 Lakh | Great Learning, Simplilearn | 3-9 months | Early-career professionals, guided learners |
| ₹1 Lakh - ₹5 Lakh | IIIT-B, IIT certifications, Scaler, Indian universities | 6-18 months | Serious career switchers, mid-level professionals |
| Over ₹5 Lakh | Stanford, MIT, ISB, INSEAD | 1-2 years | Global opportunities, advanced careers, leadership roles |
This table shows different courses and how much each ranges differently in accordance with what is provided to learners.
Best Online Platforms for AI Courses in India
If you’re planning to learn AI online, several trusted platforms offer programs that combine flexibility with strong career outcomes. Here are some of the most reliable options we recommend:
- Scaler Academy: You can count on Scaler Academy for its AI & ML program with IIT Roorkee. We provide live mentorship, structured learning, and strong placement support so that it is manageable for our learners to run along a well-curated path.
- upGrad: Offers a PG Diploma in AI/ML with IIIT-Bangalore, which goes well with both learning experience and practical exposure, just like Scaler. It’s a good option for learners who want both credibility and practical exposure.
- Udacity: Known for its AI Nanodegree, which is project-based and career-oriented, providing learners with real-world portfolios.
- edX: Features courses from top institutes like Harvard and MIT, offering academic depth and global recognition for those who want university-backed learning.
You can choose any of these platforms based on your requirements and which structure could actually add value to your portfolio.
Best Institutions in India for AI Courses
India is no less when it comes to top institutes providing extensive learning and opportunities. Here are some institutes you should definitely check out:
- IIT Madras: We all know about IIT Madras and how it provides various certifications and courses by tying up with ed-tech platforms. They also offer an Online BSc in Data Science with AI electives, making it accessible for students across the country.
- IIT Hyderabad: Runs a specialized M.Tech in Artificial Intelligence, one of the first dedicated AI degrees in India.
- ISB and IIMs: Offer executive programs in AI and Business Analytics, designed for managers and leaders aiming to integrate AI into business strategy.
These institutions bring credibility, strong alumni networks, and research-driven curricula, which make them excellent choices for learners who want both recognition and depth in AI.
Career Opportunities After AI Courses
Completing an AI course in India opens doors to some of the most in-demand tech roles today. Popular job profiles include AI Engineer, Machine Learning Engineer, Data Scientist, and NLP Specialist.
In terms of salary, freshers can expect packages around ₹6-10 LPA, while experienced professionals and specialists often command ₹20-40 LPA or more, depending on skills and the industry. With AI adoption spreading across sectors like healthcare, fintech, e-commerce, and manufacturing, career opportunities are only expected to grow in the coming years.
Conclusion
The cost of AI courses in India can range anywhere from ₹20,000 to over ₹5,00,000, depending on the type of program, institution, and depth of curriculum. From short-term certificates to full-fledged degrees, the right choice comes down to your career goals, whether that’s quick upskilling, a complete career switch, or earning global recognition.
If you’re looking for a program that consists of strong fundamentals, advanced applications, and career support, choosing Scaler’s AI & ML Course with IIT Roorkee certification is what we truly recommend. With mentorship, practical projects, and placement assistance, it’s designed to make you job-ready in some of India’s fastest-growing AI roles.
FAQs
What is the average AI course fee in India?
AI course fees in India generally range from ₹20,000 for short-term certificates to ₹5,00,000+ for advanced diplomas and degree programs.
Why do AI course fees vary so much?
Fees depend on the program type, institute brand, duration, and career support offered. IITs and global universities charge more because of their credibility and alumni networks.
Which is the best AI course under ₹1 Lakh?
Platforms like Scaler, Great Learning, and Simplilearn are some of the really good options considering the curriculum they provide under ₹1 Lakh, along with mentorship and guidance.
Are EMI/scholarships available for AI courses?
Yes. Most platforms and institutes provide EMI payment options, and some also offer scholarships or financial aid for eligible students. At Scaler, we provide scholarships and EMI options to make learning more accessible and financially flexible for learners.
Can non-tech professionals take AI courses?
Yes. Many beginner-friendly courses require no coding background. Over time, learners may need to build Python and math basics, which are often taught in structured programs.
Do higher fee courses guarantee better placements?
Not always. While premium programs provide stronger networks and career services, placements depend on skills, projects, and consistency.
What’s the ROI of a premium AI course?
Premium programs can significantly improve ROI by boosting salaries, enabling career switches, and providing long-term recognition from reputed institutions.