AI Is Changing Top College Admissions — Most Parents Aren’t Prepared
Join our webinar on December 3rd, 5PM PT / 8PM ET with a Former Duke Admissions Officer.
Over Half of Top Colleges Use AI in Their Admissions Processes.
With applications to the Ivy League and Top 15 at record highs — up 25% to 45% in the last five years — top colleges are now using AI to sort and screen applications. This means if your child’s grades or test scores aren’t strong, their application is likely to be filtered out before it ever reaches an admissions officer.
“Use Your Own Voice”
— Yale Admissions Office
Top colleges are doubling down on authenticity. With AI-written essays now everywhere, many schools are setting explicit rules around how students can and can’t use AI. Yale, Cornell and Brown have banned any AI-generated content in application materials, while others allow only limited support.
Some colleges don’t prohibit AI outright but do require students to explain how they used it. Duke, for example, has added a dedicated essay prompt for the 2025–26 cycle asking applicants to reflect on their AI use.
Many schools are also adding video components so they can hear directly from the student. Brown, UChicago and Caltech now require short video introductions or personal explanations. They want to know that your child sounds like the same person who wrote their essays and that their ideas are genuinely their own.
Want to Learn More?
Most parents underestimate how fast AI is reshaping top college admissions. If you want a clear, insider view of what’s actually happening — and what your child needs to do to stay ahead — join our upcoming webinar with a Former Duke Admissions Officer.
You’ll learn the new expectations around AI, how your child can showcase their authentic voice, and the steps your family should be taking right now.
Join us on December 3rd, 5PM PT / 8PM ET with a Former Duke Admissions Officer
Register for this Free Webinar
Learn everything you need to know about AI and top college admissions.