Over the past two years, 35% of college applicants self-reported using generative AI tools during the admissions process, helping them increase their number of submissions and apply to higher-quality schools, according to a recent survey from Acuity Insights, an admissions management service.
While college and university leaders may be skeptical about college applicants using the likes of ChatGPT and Grammarly, the survey found that 63% of respondents were confused about the extent to which they could use AI tools in the application process. Furthermore, only 42% said the schools they applied to provided clear instructions on whether these tools could be used.
Acuity Insights collected responses from 1,000 college applicants who had applied to four-year degree programs in the last two years and are now full-time students.
Here are some guidelines students stated they wished they received from their institutions:
- Clear definitions of what constitutes acceptable and unacceptable AI tool usage
- Examples of how to ethically translate AI outputs into application materials
- Guidance on maintaining academic integrity
- Instructions disclosing the use of AI tools
- A list of approved or recommended AI tools for application assistance
Nearly half (43%) of respondents said ChatGPT and other tools offer resources to students that might not otherwise be accessible, such as personalized guidance. Current hourly prices for college counselors range anywhere from $100 to $300, according to Hello College. Nearly all respondents (92%) said they believe AI tools can help bridge equity gaps in the application process.
Over two-thirds (65%) of applicants decided against using AI tools; the top reason being they felt doing so would be cheating or dishonest. Among those who did use them, however, 61% said they were a significant reason they were accepted into their current program. Regardless of institutional policies, 82% of all respondents believe their peers will continue to use AI.
Consequently, Acuity Insights suggests college admissions teams consider integrating video responses or interviews, assessing college applicants’ soft skills or reconsidering the applicant essay altogether.
More from UB: College closures are surging. Can institutions pause the plummet?
