AI Foundations
OpenAI Academy
Last updated June 29, 2026
AI Foundations is a roughly 70-minute, self-paced course from OpenAI Academy for people who are new to AI or want firmer footing before relying on it at work. It covers the basics — how AI and large language models work, and how to get useful results from ChatGPT — but the spine of the course is practice, not theory: you pick a real task you do regularly and work it through with AI. Along the way you build the core habits that separate a good result from a poor one — giving clear instructions, supplying the right context, checking what comes back, and using AI responsibly. You finish with a practical understanding of how these tools behave, those habits in place, an improved version of a task you actually do, and a course completion certificate. No technical background is needed.
What you'll learn
- How AI, large language models, and ChatGPT work, in plain terms
- Writing clear instructions and giving AI the context it needs
- Reviewing and improving what AI produces, rather than taking it at face value
- Using AI responsibly at work
- Applying all of it to a real, recurring task of your own
Frequently asked questions about AI Foundations
Who is AI Foundations for?
People new to AI, or anyone wanting a stronger foundation for using AI well at work — no technical background required.
Is AI Foundations free?
Yes — AI Foundations is completely free to take.
What are the prerequisites for AI Foundations?
None, and no programming required. You'll need a ChatGPT account and a real work task to practise on.
Does AI Foundations offer a certificate?
Yes. Course completion certificate from OpenAI Academy.
Why we suggest this course
A short, plain-language entry point that treats using AI as a skill you practise, not a topic you read about — you spend the time improving a real task instead of watching demos. Built by OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT, so the guidance comes straight from the source. One thing to know: the hands-on work is done in ChatGPT specifically, and you'll need a ChatGPT account to take part.