Survey: How High Schoolers Are Using AI in College Search

"Of those who are using AI, 62 percent say they used the tool to find colleges that are a good fit for them; about half use AI to research application requirements and search for institutions that aren't already on the students' radar. Fewer-about a quarter-said they're using AI to create application materials."

"AI is having a significant impact on students' decisions; 34 percent say their interest in an institution has grown because of AI research, while 18 percent have stricken a college from their list because of what AI said."

"Almost 40 percent said they were considering some alternative to college, such as starting a business or doing an apprenticeship, rather than going to college because of advances in AI technology. Some students also reported that AI is impacting the majors they may study, with 14 percent of respondents saying they're no longer considering computer science."

A survey of over 5,000 high school students shows that 46 percent use AI during college searches, though only 7 percent prioritize chatbots for institutional information. Among AI users, 62 percent employ it to find suitable colleges, while about half research application requirements and discover new institutions. Fewer students use AI for application materials. AI substantially influences decisions: 34 percent increased interest in institutions based on AI research, while 18 percent eliminated colleges from consideration. However, most students react negatively to AI-generated institutional correspondence. Colleges are implementing answer engine optimization strategies to improve visibility in AI searches. Additionally, 40 percent of students consider alternatives to college due to AI advances, and 14 percent have reconsidered computer science majors.

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