Top 10 Best AI & Machine Learning Courses in India 2026
Why Choosing the Right AI & ML Course Matters in 2026
2026 should officially be labelled as “Confusingly Advancing” for tech roles. We can see that generative AI systems help with coding, businesses have started to operate much faster with newer tech models, and automation has become just easy (well, almost). And with these rising changes comes a whole pool of skill advancement, especially for job seekers.
We all know that the best way to truly gain experience is through internships and voluntary projects, but before appearing in these, it is important to first get incredibly natural at performing the required skillset. And what better way than gaining knowledge along with credible certifications?
If you are considering credible courses, then do look at the best AI machine learning courses India has. Certifications from trusted names such as Scaler, IITs, IIITs, and IISc carry strong value in hiring pipelines because they prove quality mentorship, real-world projects, and industry relevance. In short, picking the right AI & Machine Learning course in India today means positioning yourself for tomorrow’s most in-demand careers.
Criteria for Selecting the Best AI & ML Course
There are indeed plenty of AI and ML course options available, so which ones should you really check out? You can keep the following criteria in mind before enrolling:
- Curriculum Depth: Choose a course that covers Python, ML, Deep Learning, and newer tools like Generative AI, LLMs, and MLOps.
- Practical Learning: Projects and capstone work matter the most by the time you complete your course.
- Instructor Credibility: Courses backed by Scaler, IITs, IIITs, or IISc offer stronger mentorship and recognition.
- Flexibility: Look for online, weekend, or part-time formats that fit your schedule.
- ROI: Compare, duration, and placement support; a well-structured course pays back in career growth.
The best AI & ML courses balance updated content, practical learning, and credible certification, which is exactly what you need to become job-ready in 2025.
Before moving on to the detailed ai ml course in India, here is a summary table for you to have a quick glance:
| Course Name | Institute | Duration | Format | Best For/Overview |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scaler Data Science & Machine Learning Program (IIT Roorkee) | Scaler | 7-15 months | Live online classes + 1:1 mentorship | Industry-led training with mentorship, real projects, interview prep, and placement support |
| IIIT Bangalore Executive Diploma in Machine Learning & AI (with upGrad) | IIIT Bangalore × upGrad | 12 months | Online live + graded assignments | Structured academic program with capstone projects and career guidance |
| IIT Madras Pravartak - Advanced Certificate in Applied AI & ML (with Emeritus) | IIT Madras Pravartak × Emeritus | 6 months | Recorded + live sessions + virtual labs | Faculty-led masterclasses, strong theoretical base, and applied learning |
| IISc (CCE) × TalentSprint - AI & MLOps (Advanced Certification) | IISc (CCE) × TalentSprint | 9 months | Hybrid (live + campus immersion) | Advanced track for tech professionals focusing on MLOps and deployment |
| IIT Hyderabad - Professional Certificate in AI (with TalentSprint) | IIT Hyderabad × TalentSprint | 6 months | Live online + industry projects | Domain-specific AI projects, strong faculty interaction, for STEM grads |
| Edureka - AI & Machine Learning Engineer Master’s Program | Edureka | 12 months | Live online | Instructor-led training + industry projects & capstone work |
| ISB Executive Education - Applied Business Analytics / AI in Business | Indian School of Business (ISB) | 14 weeks | Pre-recorded + live masterclasses | Business-focused AI course for managers and non-tech professionals |
| NPTEL (IITs/IISc) - Introduction to Machine Learning (Credit-aligned) | IITs & IISc (MoE Initiative) | 8-12 weeks | Online lectures + proctored exam | Government-backed foundational course, ideal for students |
| IIT Mandi (CCE) - AI & Data Science | IIT Mandi (CCE) | 9 months | Online live, trimester-based | Beginner-friendly, open to all, includes projects and mentorship |
| IIT Madras CODE - Foundations of Machine Learning (Short Executive) | IIT Madras (CODE) | 2 months | Online short-term | Compact, high-impact program ideal for quick ML upskilling |
Top 10 AI & Machine Learning Courses in India
Finding the right AI or Machine Learning course in India can be a bit confusing, especially with every institute claiming to offer the “best” one. To make it easier, we’ve made a list of the top 10 AI & ML courses in India for 2025, covering all levels, from beginner-friendly foundations to advanced professional certifications. Each program listed below includes its institute, duration, format, and key highlights to help you make your decision.
1) Scaler Data Science & Machine Learning Program (IIT Roorkee)
- Institute: Scaler
- Duration: 7-15 months (Based on the level of program chosen)
- Format: Live online classes with 1:1 mentorship
Program Overview
Scaler’s Data Science & Machine Learning Program is designed for professionals looking to switch or advance their careers in AI and data. The course covers Python, Statistics, Machine Learning, Deep Learning, and Generative AI, with industry-level projects that simulate real-world work pace and challenges. Learners receive guidance from top engineers and data scientists, along with personalized career coaching and placement support.
Why should you consider it?
Scaler provides 1:1 mentorship with industry experts, live classes along with recorded lectures, practical assignments, and capstone projects, interview preparation, and resume building guidance, making it one of the most practical AI & ML courses in India for job readiness.
2) IIIT Bangalore Executive Diploma in Machine Learning & AI (with upGrad)
- Institute: IIIT Bangalore (in collaboration with upGrad)
- Duration: 12 months
- Format: Online with live sessions and graded assignments
Program Overview:
This program is ideal for working professionals who want an academic yet flexible route to upskill. It offers a structured curriculum that starts from Python and Machine Learning fundamentals and moves up to Deep Learning, Generative AI, and MLOps. Learners also complete multiple case studies and a final capstone project guided by industry mentors.
Why should you consider it?
The course combines IIIT-B’s academic depth with upGrad’s strong career support, including mentorship, mock interviews, and access to hiring partners.
3) IIT Madras Pravartak - Advanced Certificate in Applied AI & ML (Emeritus)
- Institute: IIT Madras Pravartak, in collaboration with Emeritus
- Duration: 6 months
- Format: Online with recorded lectures, live sessions, and hands-on labs
Program Overview
This advanced certification provides both academic depth with practical exposure. The curriculum includes Python, Machine Learning, Deep Learning, Generative AI, and model deployment techniques. Learners also get access to virtual labs and faculty-led masterclasses from IIT Madras experts, ensuring strong conceptual grounding and real-world application. The program does have an eligibility criterion for people having a Minimum Graduate Diploma with a minimum of 5 years of work experience.
Why should you consider it?
This program offers a credible certification and an applied learning approach that’s perfect for professionals aiming to strengthen their AI foundations.
4) IISc (CCE) x TalentSprint - AI & MLOps (Advanced Certification)
- Institute: Indian Institute of Science (CCE) in collaboration with TalentSprint
- Duration: 9 months
- Format: Hybrid (live online sessions + campus immersion at IISc)
Highlights
This program is designed for tech professionals who already understand the basics of AI and want to master MLOps, model deployment, and automation pipelines. It covers advanced ML, deep learning, data engineering, and cloud deployment practices through hands-on labs and industry projects. Participants also get access to IISc’s research ecosystem and mentorship from leading faculty.
Why should you consider it?
If you are someone who already has an undergrad or post-grad level knowledge in tech, along with 2+ years of experience, then you are certainly eligible for this course.
5) IIT Hyderabad - Professional Certificate in AI (with TalentSprint)
- Institute: IIT Hyderabad, in collaboration with TalentSprint
- Duration: 6 months
- Format: Live online sessions with faculty interactions and industry projects
Program Overview
The program covers core AI concepts, machine learning, deep learning, and Generative AI applications. Learners work on use cases from finance, healthcare, and automation, gaining practical skills aligned with current industry demands.
Why should you consider it?
The program’s focus on domain-specific projects and direct faculty engagement makes it ideal for professionals looking to strengthen both technical depth and implementation skills. The eligibility criteria for the program are to be a graduate in STEM, along with having 6+ months of work experience.
- Edureka - AI & Machine Learning Engineer Master’s Program
- Institute: Edureka
- Duration: 12 months
- Format: Online with live instructor-led sessions
Program Overview
Edureka’s AI & Machine Learning Engineer Master’s Program provides an end-to-end learning path covering Python, Machine Learning, Deep Learning, NLP, and Generative AI. The course features hands-on labs, live projects, and capstone assignments designed in collaboration with industry experts to simulate actual AI challenges.
Why should you consider it?
This program is ideal for professionals who want instructor-led training with career-oriented project work and post-course support.
7) ISB Executive Education - Applied Business Analytics / AI in Business
- Institute: Indian School of Business (ISB)
- Duration: 14 weeks
- Format: Pre-recorded lectures along with a live masterclass
Program Overview
This program is developed for business leaders, managers, and professionals who want to understand how AI and analytics drive strategic decisions. It covers data-driven decision-making, predictive modeling, and AI applications in marketing, operations, and finance. Learners also gain exposure to case studies from global organizations and interactive sessions with ISB faculty.
Why should you consider it?
ISB’s program focuses on business impact, which can help professionals integrate AI into real-world workflows. It’s ideal for non-technical professionals looking to lead or manage AI-driven projects effectively.
8) NPTEL (IITs/IISc) - Introduction to Machine Learning (Credit-aligned)
- Institute: Joint initiative by IITs and IISc under NPTEL (MoE, Government of India)
- Duration: 8-12 weeks
- Format: Online lectures with proctored final exam and credit transfer option
Program Overview
Offered through the National Programme on Technology Enhanced Learning (NPTEL), this course provides a solid foundation in supervised and unsupervised learning, neural networks, and optimization techniques. Learners can earn academic credits recognized by universities, which makes it one of the most accessible and affordable AI learning options in India.
Why should you consider it?
It’s government-backed, affordable, and taught by IIT/IISc professors. Perfect for students and early professionals who want to build a strong ML foundation before pursuing advanced certifications.
9) IIT Mandi (CCE) - AI & Data Science
- Institute: IIT Mandi, Centre for Continuing Education (CCE) Duration: 9 months
- Format: Online live sessions with a trimester-based structure
Program Overview
This program is designed for learners from both technical and non-technical backgrounds who want to enter the world of AI and Data Science. The curriculum progresses in three trimesters, starting with mathematics and programming, moving to machine learning and deep learning, and ending with real-world applications and deployment.
Why should you consider it?
It’s one of the most inclusive IIT programs, which provides flexible learning, practical projects, and mentorship opportunities without strict eligibility barriers.
10) IIT Madras CODE - Foundations of Machine Learning (Short Executive)
- Institute: IIT Madras, Centre for Outreach and Digital Education (CODE)
- Duration: 2 months Format: Online short-term executive course
Program Overview
This program focuses on the fundamentals of Machine Learning and its real-world applications, offering a concise and practical learning experience. The syllabus covers supervised and unsupervised learning, model evaluation, and algorithm optimization, all taught through IIT Madras’s structured digital education platform.
Why should you consider it?
Ideal for professionals who want a quick, high-impact refresher on ML concepts, this course provides IIT-level instruction with flexibility, making it one of the best short executive AI programs in India.
What You’ll Learn & Skills You’ll Gain
Every top AI & Machine Learning course on this list is designed to help you develop the core skills employers look for in 2025. From learning technical frameworks to building problem-solving and presentation skills, here’s what you can expect to gain from these programs.
Technical Skills
- Python and Data Libraries: Gain command over Python along with NumPy, Pandas, and Matplotlib, which are a must-know for any AI workflow.
- Machine Learning & Deep Learning: Learn to design, train, and optimize models using CNNs, RNNs, and neural networks.
- Generative AI & LLMs: Advanced courses introduce you to Generative AI tools, LangChain frameworks, and Large Language Models that are reshaping automation.
- MLOps & Deployment: Understand how to take models from notebooks to production through data pipelines, model versioning, and deployment best practices.
Soft & Career Skills
- Analytical Thinking: Approach real-world business challenges through data-driven problem-solving.
- End-to-End Project Execution: Manage the complete AI lifecycle, from data collection to deployment.
- Communication Skills: Learn how to present AI insights and model outcomes to non-technical teams clearly and persuasively.
- Career Readiness: Build a professional portfolio, refine your resume, and gain confidence for interviews through guided mentorship and project experience.
How to Choose & Enrol in the Right AI/ML Course
By now, you’ve seen how many great AI and ML courses exist in India, but which one is right for you? The answer depends on your goals, background, and time commitment. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide smartly.
1. Match the Course with Your Background
If you’re new to tech, start with a beginner-friendly program that covers Python, statistics, and core ML will build a strong foundation.
And if you are already part of the industry, go for advanced or domain-specific programs that include Deep Learning, MLOps, or Generative AI.
2. Compare Curriculum & Projects
It is important to check your course syllabus and see if it includes the latest technologies, concepts, and also:
- Case studies from real companies
- Capstone projects that use real datasets
- Exposure to Generative AI or deployment workflows The more practical your learning, the faster your job-readiness.
3. Check Flexibility & Support
At the end of the day, your availability matters the most. Ask yourself:
- Can I manage live classes, or do I prefer recorded ones?
- Does the course include career mentorship or placement guidance?
- Are there weekend or evening options?
4. Evaluate Budget vs ROI
AI & ML programs can range from ₹20,000 to ₹3,00,000, but what really matters is which program aligns with your goals better.
Look at:
- Mentor access and project scope
- Certification credibility
- Placement or alumni success stories
The right course can become a fruitful investment if the future outlook seems promising.
In the end, choose the course that fits your stage, i.e, beginner or advanced, and gives you both skills and support to apply them. Once decided, visit the course’s official page, check eligibility, and enrol early (many cohorts fill up fast).
FAQs
Still have doubts about choosing the right AI & ML course in India? Here are some quick answers to the questions most learners ask before enrolling.
1. Can I start an AI & ML course with no coding background?
Yes, you can. Many beginner-friendly programs, like those by Scaler or IIIT Bangalore, start with Python basics before moving to ML and AI. All you need is logical thinking and consistency to pick up the technical part.
2. How much does an AI/ML course in India cost?
It depends on the institute and format. Short-term online courses start around ₹20,000-₹50,000, while advanced certifications from IITs or IISc can go up to ₹2-3 lakhs. It is best to compare what’s included and what actually aligns with your goals, such as mentorship, projects, and placement support make a big difference in value.
3. Will a certificate help me get a job in AI?
To be fair, a certificate alone isn’t enough, but a recognized credential + real project work can work in your favour for entry-level roles. Employers want proof of skills, and capstone projects or portfolios from reputed programs help you gain some brownie points in interviews.
4. What duration should I look for in a course?
If you’re a beginner, go for 3-6 month foundation programs. If you’re aiming for a full transition or advanced specialization, choose 9-12 month certifications that cover Deep Learning, MLOps, and Generative AI.
5. Are online AI & ML courses as good as classroom ones?
Yes, as long as they include live mentor sessions, practical projects, and career support. Most professionals now prefer online learning because it allows flexibility without compromising quality.
Conclusion
The truth is, there’s no single “best” AI or Machine Learning course; there’s only the one that fits you best. If 2025 has shown us anything, it’s that technology won’t slow down to wait for us to catch up. Whether it’s Generative AI reshaping creative work or MLOps changing how models reach production, the real opportunity lies in learning how to adapt. The courses listed here, from Scaler’s industry-led mentorship to IITs’ research-backed programs, are meant to help you do exactly that: build skills that last across trends. So, take a step back, look at where you stand, and choose the course that complements your goals and schedule, not just the one that looks impressive on paper. Once you’re ready, download the AI & ML Course Checklist to better understand what the course must include.