Is this program part of IBM?

Your Big Year® is partnered with IBM SkillsBuild to bring students resources and rewards to help you achieve industry-recognized credentials. Sign up for free IBM SkillsBuild account here.

What is IBM SkillsBuild?

It is a free learning platform supported by IBM SkillsBuild that has hundreds of courses in technology. Sign up for an IBM SkillsBuild account here .

Is this program and IBM SkillsBuild really free?

Yes! Through the partnership between Your Big Year® and IBM SkillsBuild, this program is 100% free for students. There are no hidden fees for the courses or your digital badges.

What is the AI Accelerator?

The AI Accelerator Program is a fast, hands-on learning experience designed to help you build practical AI skills in just minutes. Through industry-focused micro-credentials, you'll explore how AI is transforming fields such as sports, media, beauty, and more. Participants can earn industry-recognized digital badges, attend exclusive IBM TechTalks, and gain in-demand skills that strengthen their resume and LinkedIn profile. Plus, you'll have opportunities to compete for cash rewards while accelerating your AI knowledge and career readiness.

How long does it take to earn a badge?

Most students report that it takes approximately 10-15 minutes per badge in the AI Accelerator. It’s designed to fit into a busy student’s schedule. You can continue learning more technical and more complex badges.

Do I have to be a Computer Science or Tech major?

Not at all. In fact, this program is specifically designed for students in Business, Arts, Healthcare, and Social Sciences. AI is a tool for every industry, and this course focuses on "AI Literacy" for everyone.

Can I put these badges on my LinkedIn or Resume?

Absolutely! Share your credentials on LinkedIn to get noticed and to show you have taken the extra step to be prepared for the future of work. Be sure to tag @Student Ambassador Program with IBM SkillsBuild, @Your Big Year, and @IBM. #IBMSkillsBuild #AI

Who do I contact if I get stuck?

If you have trouble registering or accessing your courses, you can reach out to our support team at ibmskillsbuild@yourbigyear.com , use the contact form on our main site, or attend a Wednesday session.

Why is it important to learn about Artificial Intelligence?

The easiest and quickest answer is so that you can be part of the conversation! While AI is becoming harder and harder to ignore, being able to navigate it effectively ties into having foundational knowledge on what AI is and how to use it.

FREE FOR UNIVERSITY STUDENTS • NO CS BACKGROUND NEEDED

Earn your first IBM AI badge in 10 minutes

Build real AI skills through the IBM Bob Accelerator, earn an IBM-recognized credential, and put it on your resume and LinkedIn today.

Earn your first badge today and showcase on Linkedin.
Stack all 6 to unlock the full Accelerator credential, a Tech Talk seat, and cash rewards* (T&Cs apply).

Why Students Join the AI Accelerator

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Why are students across the U.S. are getting ahead with skills in AI

How it works

FAQs

Your Big Year® is partnered with IBM SkillsBuild to bring students resources and rewards to help you achieve industry-recognized credentials. Sign up for free IBM SkillsBuild account here.
It is a free learning platform supported by IBM SkillsBuild that has hundreds of courses in technology. Sign up for an IBM SkillsBuild account here.
Yes! Through the partnership between Your Big Year® and IBM SkillsBuild, this program is 100% free for students. There are no hidden fees for the courses or your digital badges.
The AI Accelerator Program is a fast, hands-on learning experience designed to help you build practical AI skills in just minutes. Through industry-focused micro-credentials, you'll explore how AI is transforming fields such as sports, media, beauty, and more. Participants can earn industry-recognized digital badges, attend exclusive IBM TechTalks, and gain in-demand skills that strengthen their resume and LinkedIn profile. Plus, you'll have opportunities to compete for cash rewards while accelerating your AI knowledge and career readiness.
Most students report that it takes approximately 10-15 minutes per badge in the AI Accelerator. It’s designed to fit into a busy student’s schedule. You can continue learning more technical and more complex badges.
Not at all. In fact, this program is specifically designed for students in Business, Arts, Healthcare, and Social Sciences. AI is a tool for every industry, and this course focuses on "AI Literacy" for everyone.
Absolutely! Share your credentials on LinkedIn to get noticed and to show you have taken the extra step to be prepared for the future of work. Be sure to tag @Student Ambassador Program with IBM SkillsBuild, @Your Big Year, and @IBM.
#IBMSkillsBuild #AI
If you have trouble registering or accessing your courses, you can reach out to our support team at ibmskillsbuild@yourbigyear.com, use the contact form on our main site, or attend a Wednesday session.
The easiest and quickest answer is so that you can be part of the conversation! While AI is becoming harder and harder to ignore, being able to navigate it effectively ties into having foundational knowledge on what AI is and how to use it.