I'm Jeff, an advisor at Nova Scholar Education. I was previously a software engineer and received a BS in Computer Science at UC Berkeley. Many of the students I work with have been asking the same question: What role does AI play in the college admissions process today? In response, I wanted to share some thoughts with both current and future students on how to navigate this shifting landscape.
The path to higher education is no longer as straightforward as it used to be. In recent years, rapid technological, legal, and cultural changes have redefined what it means to be a strong college applicant. AI, the recent Supreme Court ruling on affirmative action, an increased focus on student wellness, and evolving ideas of academic success are combining to reshape the admissions process.
That means students, parents, and educators need to think beyond test scores. Strategic planning, reflection, and adaptability are now just as important as academic preparation.
At Nova Scholar Education, we approach this evolving landscape through mentorship and insight. Our academic mentors—from Stanford, Harvard, Yale, Princeton, and MIT—bring real knowledge of elite academic culture and admissions trends. In this guide, I’ll outline four trends shaping college admissions and how students can approach each one with confidence.
The Role of Artificial Intelligence in College Admissions
AI is changing the way students learn and communicate—and increasingly, how they apply to college. Tools like ChatGPT and Grammarly offer new possibilities, but also raise ethical questions. Students, families, and educators need to ask: What’s appropriate use, and what crosses the line?
AI as a Tool, Not a Crutch
AI can help students get started—generate outlines, fix grammar, and clarify ideas. But it shouldn’t replace personal voice. College essays are about identity, growth, and lived experiences. Overreliance on AI leads to generic writing that feels polished but impersonal.
Admissions officers notice when an essay lacks vulnerability, specificity, or genuine insight. Even if technically perfect, these essays can feel flat—missing the voice and self-awareness that makes a student memorable.
Teaching Students to Use AI Responsibly
Used correctly, AI can support—not replace—student writing. For example:
- Students might ask AI for ideas or outline structures, but write their own content.
- Others may use it for sentence clarity or grammar review.
- Some may input a draft to get feedback—like asking a teacher to read it.
At Nova Scholar, we guide students in using AI during research and revision while maintaining originality and voice. Responsible AI use mirrors how students might use editors or writing tutors.
Colleges Are Using AI Too
Behind the scenes, colleges are also testing AI to manage application volume. Some use it to sort files, tag activities, or flag trends—not to make final decisions. Think of it like how companies use AI for hiring: to assist, not replace, human reviewers.
For students, that means the personal parts of your application—essays, recommendations, interviews—matter more than ever. These sections are hard to replicate with AI and help admissions officers connect with your story.
Affirmative Action and Evolving Diversity Metrics
Recent court rulings have reshaped how colleges consider race in admissions. Race can no longer be used in the same way, but diversity is still important to colleges. So how do students talk about their identity now?
What’s Really Changing
Historically, race was one of many factors used late in the review process. It wasn’t the only consideration. Schools also looked at first-generation status, geography, school context, access to AP courses, and more.
Now, some of those factors will carry even more weight. Personal essays and teacher recommendations give students space to express how their background shaped them.
New Essay Prompts
Some colleges now include optional prompts about a student’s environment or challenges. Students can share how their identity, family, or community shaped their perspective. This lets them speak to diversity without directly addressing race.
Expanding the Definition of Diversity
Diversity now includes socioeconomic status, neurodiversity, immigration background, language, religion, and more. Even interests and lived experiences can count.
Colleges also weigh “institutional priorities.” For example, a student from a rural area or with sustainability research experience might fill a specific campus need. That means students should think about what makes their story unique and how it aligns with the school’s values.
Rethinking the Meaning of “Top School”
Many students focus on Ivy League or ultra-selective schools. But there are hundreds of outstanding colleges that offer strong academics, great outcomes, and personalized experiences.
Schools like University of Michigan, Pomona College, Georgia Tech, and Amherst can be just as competitive—and may offer better opportunities depending on a student’s interests.
Focusing on programs, campus culture, and mentorship opportunities helps students find a better fit and reduces pressure.
The Test-Optional Era
Test-optional policies—first introduced during the pandemic—are here to stay at many top schools. This shift makes other parts of your application more important.
What “Test-Optional” Really Means
Without standardized tests, schools rely more on transcripts, essays, extracurriculars, and recommendations. Students should focus on crafting a strong academic story that reflects their interests and goals.
Tell a Cohesive Story
Admissions officers now ask: Does the application make sense as a whole? Does it reflect the student’s growth, interests, and personality?
If you’re into biology, show that through your classes, clubs, summer research, and volunteer work. If you’re undecided, highlight curiosity and the ability to connect ideas across fields.
One student might link robotics club, an app they built, and a coding bootcamp. Another might connect sports with creative writing. The key is consistency and depth.
When to Submit Scores
If your SAT/ACT scores are above the school’s average, submit them—they can boost your application. If not, consider leaving them out and focusing on other strengths. Always check each school’s policy.
Prioritizing Mental Health
The pressure to get into college is real—and it affects student well-being. Rejections feel personal. Social media adds comparison. Students often tie their worth to admissions outcomes.
Supporting Students Emotionally
Parents, mentors, and educators can help by:
- Sharing that rejection is not failure.
- Reframing college as one chapter, not the whole story.
- Encouraging reflection and self-care.
- Highlighting alternative paths like gap years or community college.
Students should take breaks, ask for help, and remember that success isn’t defined by where you go—but by how you grow.
Final Thoughts
Today’s college admissions process requires more than grades and test scores. It demands thoughtfulness, adaptability, and honesty. The most successful students are not just those with perfect transcripts—but those who know who they are, what they care about, and how to tell that story. By approaching college admissions with curiosity and intention, students can create applications that reflect their full potential—not just as scholars, but as people.
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