RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) — December is a big turning point for high school seniors as they decide to take university entrance exams.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the college admissions application process. Some universities are starting to incorporate this tool into their application review process.
“I’m sure every system is in place somewhere now,” NC State junior Vinay Sadhwani said.
“I think people should actually read it. That’s what they’re getting paid to do,” Jackson Goodrich told ABC11.
As students respond to AI used in the admissions process, universities are looking for ways to make the process more efficient.
College admissions counselors say more students are applying to more schools each year, and everyone is trying to crack the college admissions code.
“I think families are definitely concerned. There’s a lot at stake, especially for students, because they’ve been studying hard for all four years of high school. They’ve been studying for the SAT, taking the SAT, trying out courses and activities. And this can be a barrier,” says Colleen Paparella, D.C. College of Counseling.
ABC11 has checked with universities in the Triangle.
North Carolina State University (NCSU) announced that it received more than 49,000 applications for its 2025 freshman class.
“At NC State, we do comprehensive screening, and it’s important to truly understand where our students come from,” said Don Hunt, NC State’s senior vice president for enrollment management and services. Hunt said North Carolina is using AI to summarize important data from individuals’ applications and records. That person will then read your essay and review your application as a whole.
Leaders say national organizations are discussing the use of AI in hospital admissions, particularly regarding guardrails.
“What about the effectiveness of using a, what about bias, potential transparency, and how can we come together?” Hunt said.
UNC-Chapel Hill (UNC) shares on its website that the university is using an AI program to provide data points about students’ common application essays and transcripts. All applications for admission to Carolina University are comprehensively evaluated by trained human application evaluators, with final decisions made by members of the admissions committee.
North Carolina Central University (NCCU) told ABC 1 that the university does not use AI tools at any point in the admissions process.
Experts say that while AI may be included in certain schools’ screening processes, applicants should be clear.
“I think you talk to your high school counselor and always follow their guidance. Don’t use AI. You know, don’t create copyrighted material with any kind of AI program, because when this comes up, colleges can see that kids are using it, even if they don’t think they’re using it,” Paparella said.
Some students believe that all applications should be reviewed by a human.
“There’s a person behind every story, every GPA, every number. I think it’s important to get the full picture of the person you’re accepting,” Sadhwani said.
Virginia Tech Article: Virginia Tech updates undergraduate admissions process | Virginia Tech News | Virginia Tech
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