9 Free AI Courses Ranked

DataCamp has published a review of 9 free-to-start AI courses from various providers, including universities and tech companies. The review, written by Josef Waples and last updated on May 17, 2026, compares the courses based on learning format, curriculum depth, and outcomes.

The reviewed courses are from providers such as Harvard, MIT OpenCourseWare, Stanford Online, Google, Microsoft, IBM SkillsBuild, fast.ai, and DeepLearning.AI. All 9 courses allow newcomers to begin without paying, making them accessible to a wide range of learners.

The courses cater to different levels, from introductory material to advanced study, allowing learners to choose the best fit for their goals and skill levels. DataCamp's review includes a comparison table describing each course, helping learners make informed decisions.

The providers included in the review are some of the biggest names in the tech industry, including Google ($GOOGL), Microsoft ($MSFT), and IBM ($IBM). The courses are current as of May 2026, ensuring that learners have access to the most up-to-date information and skills.

## Why it matters The abundance of free AI courses online can be overwhelming, making it difficult for learners to choose the right course for their needs. DataCamp's review helps to simplify this process, providing a clear comparison of the different courses available. By knowing what to expect from each course, learners can save time and frustration, and make progress towards their goals.

The review is particularly useful for marketers, engineers, and other professionals who want to learn AI skills, but may not know where to start. By providing a clear overview of the different courses available, DataCamp's review helps learners to make informed decisions and choose the course that best fits their needs and goals.