We Asked 30 Top Colleges their AI Policies for Admissions Essays... Here's What They Said

Introduction

As college application season approaches, many students are grappling with the question of whether they can use AI tools, like ChatGPT, to assist in writing their essays. This has left applicants wondering about the individual policies of the colleges they are applying to. Having coached students for over 15 years through the college admissions process, including successful admissions to prestigious schools like Harvard and Stanford, I set out to investigate what the top 30 colleges in the U.S. have to say about using AI in their application essays.

The Challenge of AI in College Applications

One reason many colleges have not published an official policy on the use of AI in applications is that over-reliance on AI can lead to essay submissions that lack authenticity. Such essays can sound bland or not reflect a typical 17-year-old's voice. Colleges like Harvard don't need to specify policies against it because, quite frankly, if your essay written through AI lacks depth and originality, it won't get you in regardless.

Conversely, if an applicant uses AI tools sparingly and in a way that is not detectable, how would a college enforce a policy against it? Many students are already receiving help from parents, friends, and teachers in refining their essays. In this sense, AI can level the playing field for those who may not have access to as much support.

When we reached out to 30 top colleges, we found varying responses regarding their policies on AI in admissions essays.

The Responses

Out of the 30 colleges we contacted, only a handful provided clear responses. Notably, 25 of them did not respond at all. Among those who did, we found a mix of policies:

1. Brown University: They took a strong stance, stating that any use of artificial intelligence in crafting essays is strictly prohibited. Their definition of application fraud includes submitting AI-generated content.

2. California Institute of Technology (Caltech): Caltech provided thoughtful guidelines, warning students that over-reliance on AI tools could dilute their unique voices. They encourage using AI for grammar and spelling checks but stress maintaining individual expression in essays.

3. University of Michigan: They confirmed that their current admissions process, including essay questions, remains unchanged, suggesting that traditional standards still apply despite the emergence of AI technology.

4. Cornell University and University of Florida: Both institutions declined to provide specific information, leaving applicants in the lurch about their policies.

5. University of Denver: They noted that while they do not have an explicit policy against using AI, students should ensure their essays reflect their individual skills and voice.

Conclusion

The landscape of college admissions is evolving, and with it comes the emergence of AI technology. Applicants must weigh the use of AI in their essays against their desire to showcase their authentic selves. While some colleges have established strict rules, many are still navigating how these tools fit into the application process.

If you want to succeed in your college applications, remember to focus on authenticity, creativity, and your unique experiences. Embrace the process and ensure that your voice shines through in your writing.

Keyword

• College admissions
• AI policies
• Essays
• Authenticity
• Brown University
• Caltech
• University of Michigan
• Application fraud

FAQ

Q: Can I use AI tools like ChatGPT in my college application essays?
A: The ability to use AI tools varies by college. Some institutions, like Brown University, prohibit any use of AI in essay crafting, while others, like Caltech, allow limited use for grammar and spelling checks.

Q: What are the potential risks of using AI for my college essays?
A: Over-reliance on AI can lead to essays that lack authenticity and originality, possibly harming your candidacy.

Q: How do colleges enforce AI usage policies?
A: Enforcement can be challenging, especially if AI use is undetectable. Colleges rely on students to present their own work honestly.

Q: Are there colleges that do not have any formal policy regarding AI in essays?
A: Yes, many colleges have not explicitly stated their positions on AI use in application essays.

Q: What should I keep in mind while writing my college essay?
A: Always prioritize authenticity and ensure that your essay reflects your individual voice and experiences.