Free AI Training: OpenAI, Google, Microsoft Lead the Way

The Rise of Free AI Training

Artificial intelligence (AI) is experiencing rapid growth, transforming numerous professional sectors. In response to this evolution, major tech companies have taken the initiative to offer free training programs. These programs aim to make their technologies more accessible and understandable to a broad audience. Meanwhile, French and European institutions are also providing resources to help individuals familiarize themselves with AI. Here’s an overview of the main training options available.

Initiatives from AI Giants

OpenAI Academy: An Immersion in ChatGPT

OpenAI has launched the OpenAI Academy, a free platform that offers live workshops, tutorial videos, and educational resources. This initiative targets a diverse audience, ranging from beginners to experienced developers. Topics covered include the basics of prompting and more advanced applications such as creating AI agents or using the API. Upcoming live workshops will cover themes such as using ChatGPT for educators and business leaders, as well as Codex for developers. These contents are currently available in English only.

Anthropic Academy: Training with the Claude Assistant

In March 2026, Anthropic launched the Anthropic Academy, a platform hosted on Skilljar, offering 13 free and certification courses. These courses cover the fundamentals of AI, daily use of Claude, as well as specific technical needs like the API and the Model Context Protocol. Among the programs, "Claude 101" introduces users to the basics of Anthropic's AI assistant, while "AI Fluency: Framework & Foundations," developed in collaboration with academic institutions, teaches collaboration with an AI system. Other courses, such as "Claude Code in Action," focus on using Anthropic's command-line coding tool.

Google Skills: AI Skills for Everyone

Google offers a wide range of free training through its Google Skills platform. Among these, the "Google AI Essentials" course provides a comprehensive introduction to the fundamentals of AI, the use of generative tools, and responsible prompting, with no prerequisites required. The platform also offers specialized courses for developers and marketers, with 35 free monthly credits to access these trainings.

Microsoft Learn: Mastering Copilot and More

Microsoft Learn provides a range of free AI modules suitable for all skill levels. The pathways include daily use of Copilot, developing AI applications with Azure, and AI strategies for leaders. Some courses allow participants to earn recognized Microsoft certifications, specifying the targeted professions for each pathway.

Hugging Face Learn: Open Source AI at Your Fingertips

Hugging Face, a platform dedicated to open-source AI, offers 12 free courses without registration. These courses cover various topics, such as the "LLM Course" for understanding large language models, and the "Agents Course" for learning how to build AI agents.

Canva Design School: Integrating AI into Visual Creation

Canva, through its Design School, offers several free and certification courses in French, focused on integrating AI into visual creation. Among these courses, a beginner's pathway teaches how to "work smarter with AI," and a course on AI workflows with the Studio Suite allows for automating part of the creative process.

Offers from Institutions and Organizations

In addition to tech companies, several institutions and organizations in France and Europe provide free resources to understand AI. These trainings, often more focused on citizenship, address the ethical and societal implications of AI.

• Elements of AI: This free course, developed by the University of Helsinki with the support of the European Commission, is available in French and teaches the basics of AI without requiring prior technical knowledge.

• Objective AI: Initiated by the Institut Montaigne and the Abeona Foundation, this free training is part of France's national AI strategy, allowing participants to acquire fundamentals in just a few hours.

• Practicing Useful AI: Designed by Cécile Dejoux, this MOOC targets professionals eager to identify concrete applications of generative AI in their field.

• Artificial Intelligence and Society: This five-week MOOC explores the impact of AI through ten societal themes, from marketing to health, as well as law and ethics.

In addition to structured training, YouTube is a valuable resource for targeted AI learning. Many creators share practical tutorials on specific tools, such as getting started with ChatGPT or creating AI images. For those seeking more structured support, numerous AI training programs eligible for CPF are available, catering to all levels and professional goals.