IBM revealed last year that only 35% of professionals are actually trained in AI. That’s a huge gap, especially when AI skills are quickly becoming essential for staying relevant in today’s job market.
Are you eager to build expertise in AI but unsure where to begin? Great! I’ve curated a list of the Best Free AI Courses for Beginners in 2025 to help you take that first step with confidence.
Whether you’re a complete beginner, a developer, a non-tech professional, or simply looking to upskill, there’s something here for everyone. These courses are offered by trusted names like Google, IBM, DeepLearning.AI, and more. So you’re learning from the very best.
Let’s find the perfect course!
Why Learn About AI?
AI is today’s reality, and the field is advancing every day! And those who don’t know and adapt to it risk falling behind. Today, AI tools are being used across various domains, such as academics, marketing, creative work, and more.
For example, generative AI is helping beginner graphic designers create stunning digital art. Meanwhile, creators are using AI for content research, brainstorming ideas, writing captions, scripting videos, and much more.
So, if you’re still a beginner, don’t worry! With beginner-friendly AI courses, you can quickly build your skills, boost your productivity, and save time and effort. It’s never too late to get ahead with AI.
The Best Free AI Courses for Beginners (Summary)
| Course Name | Hosting Platform | Duration | Certificate | Affiliation | Best for |
| ChatGPT For Beginners | Great Learning | 3 hours | Yes | Great Learning | Absolute Beginners |
| Elements of AI | MinnaLearn | 40 to 60 hours | Yes, paid | University of Helsinki, Finland | Conversational AI learner |
| Prompt Engineering for ChatGPT | Coursera | 18 hours | Yes, paid | Vanderbilt University, USA | AI Prompting Beginners |
| ChatGPT Prompt Engineering for Developers | DeepLearning.AI | 1.5 hours | Yes, paid | Instructed by Andrew Ng (Co-founder and head of Google Brain) | Aspiring Prompt Engineers, Developers, and Programmers |
| Google AI Essentials | Grow with Google | 5 hours | Yes, paid | Writers and Content creators | |
| Generative AI for Everyone | Cousera | 5 hours | Yes, paid | Instructed by Andrew Ng from DeepLearning.AI | Startup owners and non-technical users |
| Machine Learning Crash Course | Google Developers | 15 hours | No | Aspiring Data Scientists and Programmers | |
| Introduction to AI with Python | edX | 7 weeks (10 to 30 hours/ week) | Yes, paid | Harvard University, USA | Tech Students and Developers |
| ChatGPT for Developers | UpGrad | 2 hours | Yes | UpGrad | Software Developers |
| AI For Everyone | Coursera | 6 hours | Yes, paid | Instructed by Andrew Ng from DeepLearning.AI | Business professionals, Executives, and Non-techies |
| AI Foundations for Everyone | Coursera | 12 hours | Yes, paid | IBM | Students and Career Switchers |
| Become an AI-Powered Marketer | Semrush Academy | 1 hour 40 minutes | Yes | Semrush Academy | Digital marketers and SEO specialists |
| ChatGPT for Digital Marketing | UpGrad | 1.5 hours | Yes | UpGrad | Marketers, social media managers, and content creators |
| Introduction to Responsible AI | Google Cloud Skill Boost | 30 minutes | No, badge only | Ethically conscious users | |
| Ethics of AI | MOOC.FI | Self-paced online program | No | University of Helsinki, Finland | Tech professionals |
The Best Free AI Courses for Beginners
You’ve likely come across hundreds of AI courses. Who has the time to sift through them all? How do you know which course matches your knowledge level? So, we’ve done the research for you! Below is the list of beginner-friendly AI courses, organized by category.
Best Courses to Learn ChatGPT & Conversational AI
1) ChatGPT for Beginners
| Offered by | Great Learning |
| Time Commitment | 3 hours |
| Price | Free |
| Language | English |
Great Learning is a well-known Indian edtech platform that’s been offering free courses to millions for over a decade. ChatGPT for Beginners is one such beginner-friendly course, boasting a 5-star rating from 3,100+ learners.
ChatGPT, developed by OpenAI, is a powerful large language model trained to deliver human-like responses. You can use it for everything from academic help and research to creating art, solving math problems, and making presentations. There are even custom GPTs for specific tasks.
This AI course gives you a clear intro to ChatGPT and generative AI applications. You’ll learn how to use ChatGPT-3.5 for content creation and other everyday use cases. The course also introduces OpenAI’s most advanced model, including real-time applications and how to leverage its variants GPT-4.0, GPT-4o, and GPT-3.5 for personalized tasks.
In short, it’s a great course to start! Students and absolute beginners can explore what ChatGPT can actually do.
2) Elements of AI
| Offered by | MinnaLearn, in collaboration with the University of Helsinki |
| Time Commitment | 40 to 60 hours |
| Price | Free to learn |
| Language | English and Finnish |
If you’re just starting out with AI, Elements of AI is another great course to check out. It was created by MinnaLearn (an EdTech company) in collaboration with the University of Helsinki, Finland. The course is self-paced and combines easy-to-follow theory with practical examples.
When you head over to the platform, you’ll see three main options: Introduction to AI, Building AI, and Elements of AI for your LMS. The first two are free and perfect for individual learners.
As the name suggests, the Introduction to AI course covers the basics: what AI is, how it solves problems, real-world applications, a beginner-friendly look at neural networks, machine learning, and its impact on society.
Once you’ve got that down, Building AI takes things further. You’ll learn how AI algorithms work, explore machine learning techniques like linear regression, deep learning, etc. For this part, having some basic Python skills will definitely help.
Overall, this is a great course for both beginners and intermediate learners. And you can purchase a shareable certificate at the end.
Best Courses for AI Prompt Engineering
3) Prompt Engineering for ChatGPT
| Offered by | Vanderbilt University |
| Time Commitment | 18 hours |
| Price | Free to learn |
| Language | English with subtitles in 23 languages |
Vanderbilt University, a top research university in the U.S., offers several AI specialization courses on Coursera. One of the best picks for beginners is Prompt Engineering for ChatGPT. It’s a great starting point if you want to learn how to craft effective prompts from scratch.
The course includes 6 modules and 7 assignments. It begins with the basics—what prompts are, how root prompts work, prompt length limits, and more. Next, it focuses on different prompt patterns over three dedicated modules.
I highly recommend this course to beginners for two main reasons: First, it blends video lessons, readings, and interactive assignments. Second, you get to practice what you learn through regular assignments after each module.
By the time you complete all the modules, you’ll have a strong foundation and real experience in writing effective prompts.
4) ChatGPT Prompt Engineering for Developers
| Offered by | DeepLearning.AI, in collaboration with OpenAI |
| Time Commitment | 1 hour 30 minutes |
| Price | Free to learn |
| Language | English |
Already have a basic idea of ChatGPT and its use cases? Then you can skip the 1st course and jump straight into ChatGPT Prompt Engineering for Developers.
This is an excellent opportunity to learn from two big names in AI: Andrew Ng (the mind behind Google Brain) and Isa Fulford (technical staff at OpenAI).
In this course, you’ll learn how to work with large language models (LLMs) to build smart applications through 9 video lessons. It starts with the basic concepts of prompt engineering, then moves into real-world use cases like summarizing content, extracting topics, repurposing text, expanding ideas, and more.
You’ll need a bit of Python knowledge to follow along. If you’re ready to get hands-on with ChatGPT and explore its advanced capabilities, this course is perfect for you!
Best Courses for Generative AI
5) Google AI Essentials
| Offered by | Grow with Google |
| Time Commitment | 5 hours |
| Price | Available on the free trial |
| Language | English |
Generative AI is a subfield of artificial intelligence focused on creating original, purpose-specific content, like articles, images, blog posts, and more. To help beginners get started, Google has launched an introductory course called Google AI Essentials.
This course provides a well-rounded overview of AI, including prompt engineering, ethical AI, and practical exercises of generative AI. It’s divided into 5 modules, starting with the basics, what AI is, and how it works.
Next, it moves on to how generative AI can boost productivity. The final modules focus on using AI for innovation and developing critical thinking skills to stay ahead.
Overall, this is a beginner-friendly course offered through the Grow with Google initiative. You can take advantage of Coursera’s 14-day free trial to learn. However, there’s a $49 fee if you want to earn a certificate.
I’d recommend using this course to get a solid grasp of the basics. For career growth, it’s better to invest in the next advanced certification course in generative AI.
6) Generative AI for Everyone
| Offered by | DeepLearning.AI |
| Time Commitment | 5 hours |
| Price | Free to learn |
| Language | English with subtitles in 29 languages |
As the name suggests, Generative AI for Everyone helps both individual learners and business professionals. The course is available on Coursera and is instructed by none other than Andrew Ng.
Generative AI today isn’t about creating text content anymore. With tools like Claude, DeepSeek, Midjourney, and Amazon CodeWhisperer, you can now generate code, images, music, and even synthetic voices. This course is built to help you understand all of that.
You’ll get a clear overview of how generative AI works, how large language models (LLMs) function, and how to use Gen AI tools. It also explores real-world Gen AI projects and techniques beyond basic prompting.
So, if you’re aiming to build a career in graphic design, advertising, or content creation, this certification is worth adding to your resume.
Best Free Courses on Machine Learning for Beginners
7) Machine Learning Crash Course
| Offered by | Google Developers |
| Time Commitment | 15 hours |
| Price | Free |
| Language | English, Spanish, Korean, Mandarin, and French |
Machine learning (ML) models are now used across multiple domains to enhance predictions and automated decision-making. For example, ML supports demand forecasting in e-commerce, risk analysis in fintech, and even business process automation.
If you’re looking to gain both basic and advanced knowledge of machine learning in a single course, I’ll suggest just one course, Google’s MLCC. It’s a self-paced course that’s recently been updated and is perfect for beginners and intermediate learners alike.
The course is grouped into four main parts: ML Models, Data, Advanced ML Models & Real-world ML. It starts off with the foundational knowledge, like linear regression and logistic regression, then moves on to real-world applications using datasets. Later, you’ll explore advanced topics such as neural networks, embeddings, AutoML, and ML fairness.
While the course is primarily theory-based, it includes programming exercises and assessments to test your understanding of what you’ve learned. A basic grasp of algebra and elementary statistics is helpful.
You won’t need calculus (though it can deepen your understanding), and if you’re not into coding, you can skip the Python exercises and still follow along just fine.
Best AI Courses for Developers
8) Introduction to AI with Python
| Offered by | Harvard University |
| Time Commitment | 10 to 30 hours/week |
| Price | Free to learn |
| Language | English with subtitles in 12 languages |
Who would want to miss the chance to get certified by Harvard University? Probably no one! So, if you’re aiming for a career in programming or AI, consider enrolling in the Introduction to AI with Python course.
This course is taught by two renowned Harvard instructors, David J. Malan and Brian Yu. It covers the fundamentals of modern artificial intelligence, including graph search algorithms, classification, optimization, machine learning, large language models, and more.
Over 7 weeks, you’ll learn how to design intelligent systems and apply AI techniques using Python. Keep in mind that prior programming skills are required for this course.
The course is free to audit, but if you want a verified certificate, there’s a $299 fee.
9) ChatGPT for Developers
| Offered by | UpGrad |
| Time Commitment | 2 hours |
| Price | Free |
| Language | English |
UpGrad is a well-known South Asian EdTech platform that has helped over 10 million learners upskill across various fields. One of its standout career-focused courses is ChatGPT for Developers.
The course takes just about 2 hours to complete. It’s designed to help learners understand how to effectively code with ChatGPT.
It features 38 lessons and 17 video tutorials, covering everything from code generation, bug fixing, and documentation to code translation. The primary goal is to teach you how to automate coding tasks using ChatGPT.
And the best part? Unlike some other platforms like Coursera, you don’t need to pay extra for certification; everything is free. Whether you are an intermediate developer, a startup founder, or an AI/ML enthusiast, this hands-on experience and interactive training is a great way to boost skills and advance your career.
Best Courses for Non-Coders & Non-Tech Professionals
10) AI For Everyone
| Offered by | DeepLearning.AI |
| Time Commitment | 6 hours |
| Price | Free to learn |
| Language | English with subtitles in 30 languages |
Another excellent beginner-friendly AI course from DeepLearning.AI is AI for Everyone. This course is quite a favorite among learners, with over 4,700 positive reviews and 1.87 million enrollments on Coursera.
As the name suggests, this course is designed to help both professionals and individuals. It breaks down what AI can and can’t do, and how it’s shaping society. You’ll also gain knowledge on how AI can help automate workflows.
For organizations, the course offers valuable insights on how to select AI projects and collaborate with technical teams. It even touches on how to drive AI-powered transformation across departments.
The course includes 4 modules, 35 video lessons, and supporting reading materials. At the end, there’s a quiz to check your understanding. So, the course is a great way to build a strong foundation in AI for learners with no technical background.
11) AI Foundations for Everyone
| Offered by | IBM |
| Time Commitment | 12 hours |
| Price | Free to learn |
| Language | English with subtitles in 29 languages |
IBM is one of the largest tech companies in the world. If you’re a non-tech professional looking to get recognized by such a big name, the AI Foundations for Everyone course is a great choice.
The course is split into four modules, starting with the basics of AI and ending with important topics like ethical considerations. You’ll learn essential AI concepts and terminology, such as neural networks, natural language processing, and deep learning techniques. It also covers the role of AI in cloud computing, edge computing, and the Internet of Things (IoT) in an easy format.
One of the best parts of this course is how it links AI to real-world business and career growth. Along with video lessons and reading materials, it offers hands-on labs (for example, Using Generative AI for Your Work) and practical projects.
If you’re ready to spend just a day learning and earn certification from IBM, this course is well worth your time. It even covers many of the same topics as DeepLearning.AI’s AI for Everyone, so you might choose this one instead.
Best AI Courses for Marketing & SEO
12) ChatGPT for Digital Marketing
| Offered by | UpGrad |
| Time Commitment | 1.5 hours |
| Price | Free |
| Language | English |
Did you know ChatGPT can help with digital marketing? Yes, it can! Large language models don’t just automate marketing workflows, they can improve engagement and online presence.
If you’re curious to learn how, check out “ChatGPT for Digital Marketing” by UpGrad. It’s a beginner-friendly course that covers all the essentials in one place. The course features 18 short videos and easy-to-follow lessons.
In just 1.5 hours, you’ll gain a solid understanding of how to use AI in digital marketing. You’ll learn how ChatGPT can support SEO, integrated marketing strategies, and more. It also trains you in email marketing, social media management, content marketing, and paid campaigns — all powered by ChatGPT.
Best of all, it’s 100% free, and you’ll receive a certificate upon completion. So, if you’re a fresh graduate, aspiring content creator, social media manager, or freelancer, this UpGrad certification is a great way to add practical AI skills to your resume..
13) Become an AI-Powered Marketer
| Offered by | Semrush Academy |
| Time Commitment | 1 hour 40 minutes |
| Price | Free |
| Language | English |
If you’re already using ChatGPT for digital marketing and want specialized training, Semrush Academy has a fantastic course for you. “Become an AI-Powered Marketer” is a great opportunity for anyone looking to do more in less time with the help of AI.
This course covers everything from strategy development and content creation to campaign ideation with practical, real-world application. The lessons are short and easy to digest, with 10–15 minute videos that walk you through the essentials of how AI works and introduce you to the basics of prompt engineering.
Step by step, the course explores how to optimize SEO, content creation, and social media workflows with AI. You’ll also learn how to generate on-brand images, build marketing strategies, and create ad campaigns using tools like MidJourney and other AI platforms.
You’ll even get SEO and blogging lessons from the Managing Editor of the Semrush Blog. The course has no hidden fees.
Aspiring marketers, content creators, and freelancers looking for practical skills without any hefty fees, join this training. You’ll be a pro at integrating AI into your marketing workflows by the end.
Best Courses for AI Ethics & Responsible AI
14) Introduction to Responsible AI
| Offered by | Google Cloud Skill Boost |
| Time Commitment | 30 minutes |
| Price | Free |
| Language | English and 14 other global languages |
AI technology is being used across virtually every industry. Millions of people rely on it daily to speed up workflows and automate tasks. But like any powerful tool, AI also comes with risks of misuse. That’s why it’s so important for learners like you and me to understand how to use AI responsibly.
To help with that, Google Cloud has launched an introductory-level microlearning course called “Introduction to Responsible AI.” It’s a short, 30-minute course that explains what responsible AI use means, why it matters, and how Google prioritizes ethical AI practices in its products.
I highly recommend that every AI learner take this quick course alongside any technical AI training. Not only will it help you avoid common pitfalls and cyber risks, but you’ll also earn a shareable badge for your LinkedIn profile or resume to highlight your commitment to ethical AI use.
15) Ethics of AI
| Offered by | Univeristy of Helsinki |
| Time Commitment | Self-paced online program |
| Price | Free |
| Language | English |
If you’re interested in the ethical side of AI, I highly recommend the Ethics of AI course by the University of Helsinki, Finland. Unlike the other AI training courses mentioned in this article, this one takes a different approach—it’s entirely theory-based.
As you’re taking steps toward upskilling in the AI field, it’s equally important to understand the responsibility that comes with it. That’s why this course is completely accessible to everyone.
Here, we’ll explore how AI can benefit users, what makes up harmful use, and how to promote transparency, accountability, and fairness in AI systems. It walks you through these topics chapter by chapter in a well-structured format.
What I personally appreciated is the way the course is presented. Even though it’s theory-focused, it uses clear headings, real-world examples, and interactive visuals, so it’s easy to follow. Plus, you can go through it at your own pace.
Conclusion
This article rounds up the best free artificial intelligence courses perfect for beginners. I’ve covered a total of 15 selected free online courses across various categories, from developers and non-tech learners to marketers and more.
You’ll also find courses on ChatGPT, prompt engineering, machine learning, and generative AI. The list ends with two important course recommendations focused on ethical and safe AI practices.
If you’re looking for must-try options, I highly recommend AI Foundations for Everyone by IBM, Generative AI for Everyone by DeepLearning.AI, and Become an AI-Powered Marketer by Semrush Academy. All three are free to learn, but their paid certification is worth showcasing on your resume or LinkedIn.
That said, all the courses listed here are valuable and worth your time. They’ll help you upskill and become more productive—no matter your background.
Tried a course and loved it? Let me know in the comments section! Until then, happy learning!
