As generative AI spreads across college campuses, students and professors are still debating how it should be used. Some see it as a helpful tool, while others worry it may undermine critical thinking.
Standardized tests are returning at some elite colleges while more than 1,800 schools remain test-optional, creating a confusing two-tier system. At the same time, AI is increasingly reviewing applications and international interest in U.S. colleges is declining.
As these technologies become better at producing knowledge work, they risk hollowing out the ecosystem of learning and mentorship upon which colleges and universities are built, and on which they depend.
Despite its increasing role in the economy (and in students' lives), many colleges and universities stop at plagiarism while developing their AI policies.
Two-thirds of the colleges surveyed have no official policy about the use of GenAI in applications essays. Still, many admissions officers are wary of the technology.
The program, called One Click College Admit, allows Illinois high school seniors and community college transfer students to apply for and receive college acceptance into 10 of the state's public universities by meeting only a single requirement for admission: grade point average.
As AI tools like ChatGPT reshape education, colleges must teach students to balance tech use with human skills. Professor Michael Serazio says what graduates need most is space to think, connect, and focus—things AI can’t replace.
