In 2025, the Google DeepMind Research Ready programme run by the Department of Computer Science and Technology at the University of Cambridge offers a unique, paid 8‑week research internship (7 July–29 August) for undergraduates or recent graduates interested in AI and machine learning. Interns are matched with PhD mentors and engage in hands-on AI research, attend workshops, seminars, and receive career guidance—without needing prior research experience—and they gain immersive exposure to postgraduate life at Cambridge.
What’s in It for New Applicants?
As a new applicant for the UK Health and Care Visa, here’s what you’ll get:
1# Fast-Track Processing
Your application will be prioritized. Most visa decisions are made within 3 weeks, compared to the usual 8–20 weeks for other visas.
2# Reduced Visa Fees
You and your eligible dependents will pay less than regular Skilled Worker applicants. The fee reduction is automatically applied if your employer confirms your Health and Care Visa eligibility in the Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
3# No Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
You’re exempt from paying the IHS, which can otherwise cost up to £1,035 per person per year. Your partner and children are also exempt.
4# Bring Your Family (Important Update)
You can bring your partner and children—except if you’re applying under SOC code 6135 (Care Workers and Home Carers) or 6136 (Senior Care Workers) and your visa was issued after 11 March of last year.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify, you must:
- Be submitting an application for a skilled worker visa
- Possess a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from a UK employer licensed by the Home Office.
- Be employed in one of the eligible healthcare or social care occupations specified under Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) codes.
Examples of Eligible Roles (SOC Codes):
- 2211: General medical practitioners
- 2235: Mental health nurses
- 2251: Pharmacists
- 2461: Social workers
- 6131: Nursing assistants
- 2254: Medical radiographers
- 2221: Physiotherapists
- 6135: Care workers and home careers (restrictions apply for dependents).
New Application Process (2025 Update):
Follow this updated step-by-step process for a smooth Health and Care Visa application as per new changes (Ref):
Step 1: Secure a Job Offer: Get hired by a UK employer that is:
- Approved by the Home Office, and
- Involved in health or social care (e.g. NHS, local authorities, CQC-registered institutions)
Step 2: Obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): Your employer issues a CoS that must:
- Clearly confirm Health and Care Visa eligibility
- Include job title and SOC code
- Mention contract details and work location
Step 3: Prepare Your Documents: You’ll need:
- Passport
- CoS number
- Proof of English proficiency
- Tuberculosis (TB) test results (if required)
- Proof of funds (if not exempt)
- Letter from employer (if dependents are applying separately)
Step 4: Apply Online
Go to: https://www.gov.uk/health-care-worker-visa
Fill out the Skilled Worker visa form and check the Health and Care Visa box to activate benefits (fee reduction + IHS exemption).
Step 5: Biometrics Appointment: Attend your visa center appointment to submit biometrics and supporting documents.
Step 6: Wait for a Decision: Most applications are processed within 3 weeks after biometrics.
Additional Guidance for Employers as Per New Changes for 2026:
Your sponsor must:
- Include a brief statement in the CoS that elucidates the role’s eligibility for the Health and Care Visa.
The new guidance applies from 22 July 2025 onward, and applications are open year-round. Just make sure your sponsor is ready and eligible.
Check Also: Max Planck Institute Scholarship Invites International PhD Applicants
Important Note About Care Workers (SOC 6135, 6136):
If you’re applying as a:
- Care Worker or Home Carer, or
- Senior Care Worker,
And your application is after 11 March 2024, you cannot bring dependents unless:
- You already had a visa before 11 March 2024 and have remained under the same route.
- You’re applying for a child born in the UK.
Internship Overview:
The Cambridge Judge Business School at the University of Cambridge is offering an AI research internship that will position interns at the center of a groundbreaking global study that is examining the adoption of artificial intelligence throughout the financial ecosystem. This research endeavors to identify the strategic challenges and opportunities that the sector will encounter between now and 2030, spanning from fintech firms and incumbent institutions to regulatory agencies and AI solution providers.
Interns will be vitally involved in the collection, interpretation, analysis, and writing of reports as members of the AI research team. Additionally, interns may contribute to the Centre’s broader research and policy initiatives. This experience is particularly beneficial for those who have an academic or professional interest in field such as fintech, machine learning, policy research, or financial regulation.
Internship Format and Duration:
The internship is conducted primarily online and is open to candidates from all countries. An onsite option at Cambridge may be discussed in select cases. Applicants can choose between part-time and full-time options, making it suitable for current students and early-career professionals.
- Duration: 3 to 6 months (with the possibility of extension)
- Start date: Immediate
- Time commitment:
- Part-time: 20 hours per week
- Full-time: 37.5 hours per week
- Location: Remote (worldwide); onsite possible in Cambridge.
Benefits of the Internship:
- Participate in a groundbreaking global investigation into the application of artificial intelligence in the financial sector.
- Acquire expertise in policy-oriented and academic research
- Acquire access to one of the most esteemed research centers in alternative finance.
- Participation is feasible from any location on Earth due to the adaptable remote format.
- Enhance your portfolio by incorporating research output that is informed by meaningful data.
- Learn from and collaborate with distinguished faculty and experts at the University of Cambridge.
Who Should Apply?
This apprenticeship is particularly well-suited for students and recent graduates who possess a strong interest or background in regulatory policy, financial services, or artificial intelligence. Although all motivated applicants are welcome to apply, those with prior experience in AI deployment within financial systems or relevant regulatory engagement are particularly encouraged to do so.
Eligibility criteria include:
- Demonstrated interest in AI, financial services, economics, or public policy
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Excellent research and data analysis abilities
- Ability to work independently and meet deadlines in a remote setting.
Application Process:
The application process is straightforward and consists of two simple steps:
Step 1: Download and complete the official application form from the CCAF website.
Step 2: Email your application package to the CCAF team. This should include:
- Your updated CV or resume
- A writing sample demonstrating analytical or research skills
- The completed application form
- Any additional relevant supporting documents.
The internship accepts applications on a continuous basis; however, early submission is strongly advised, as positions may be filled as soon as suitable candidates are identified. While there is no specific deadline, applicants who are interested in commencing employment immediately should submit their applications by September 30, 2025, in order to be considered for current positions.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Who is eligible to apply?
DeepMind Research Ready: UK/ROI students in penultimate or final year undergrad, or recent grads with strong AI‑related academic record, from under‑represented backgrounds. Must have right to work in the UK.
CCAF AI Internship: International candidates welcome; applicants with bachelor’s (or higher) in relevant fields—finance, economics, public policy, or CS/AI. Final‑year undergrads with strong writing skills may also apply.
ICCS: Undergraduate students working on AI/computation in climate science; visa or sponsorship details not explicitly stated (likely applicants must self-arrange).What are typical internship dates and durations?
DeepMind Research Ready: Around 8 weeks in summer (e.g. early July through late August).
CCAF AI Internship: Flexible duration—3 to 6 months—with rolling start. Can begin immediately.What are the benefits and compensation?
DeepMind Research Ready: Paid placement, free accommodation (in college), mentorship and exposure to AI research environment at Cambridge. No fees.
CCAF AI Internship: Up to £800/month reimbursement (full-time) or £400/month part-time; recognition in publications; networking with academics, regulators, and fintech professionals; certificate of completion.
ICCS: Paid at UK National Living Wage plus holiday pay; accommodation covered via college housing.
