For both students and admissions officers, AI presents opportunities and challenges. As the college application process can be daunting, some students and parents are leveraging artificial intelligence for assistance. Although generative AI is still an emerging technology, its impact on college applications is notable. Before submitting your next application, it’s important to understand how AI is influencing the admissions landscape.
### College essays are becoming less important
The significance of the college essay has diminished. Previously a key component for showcasing a student’s personality and writing skills, many students now use AI to expedite the writing process. Colleges are aware of this trend. Unfortunately, distinguishing between AI-generated and human-written essays is challenging, leading some institutions to downplay the role of essays. Data indicates a substantial number of students may be using AI for this purpose, even if exact figures are elusive.
Scholarship360’s CEO observed essays increasingly similar in language and style, often marked by vocabulary and formatting unusual for teenagers. As a result, Duke University, among others, no longer assigns numerical values to essays, partly due to AI’s influence.
### Students aren’t the only ones using AI
AI usage isn’t limited to students. A study by Foundry10 indicates that almost 30% of both students and teachers regularly incorporate AI into the college application process. Students utilize AI mostly for writing essays, while teachers employ it for crafting recommendation letters, integral to applications. While AI can streamline the writing process, it may inadvertently detract from a student’s application if the material appears too generative.
### Colleges often use AI during admissions, too
Despite reservations about AI-generated essays, many colleges utilize AI for reviewing applications. Virginia Tech and UNC-Chapel Hill are among institutions employing AI to assess student work. Some colleges also deploy AI for detecting AI-generated content, emphasizing the technology’s dual role in admissions processes.
### Some colleges have outright banned the use of AI
Policies regarding AI usage vary among colleges. While the University of Georgia allows responsible AI use, many institutions, including Brown and Yale, restrict AI to prevent potential academic dishonesty. Prospective students should check each college’s AI policy to avoid unintentional disqualifications.
### New AI tools for college admissions
Numerous tools are available to assist with college applications, ranging from daily utilities like ChatGPT to specialized platforms such as Kollegio. These tools can help streamline application processes or aid in finding suitable colleges. AI’s role in academia continues to evolve, akin to the transformative impact of the internet on applications decades ago.
For now, applicants are advised against relying heavily on AI for personal essays and should review colleges’ AI policies thoroughly.