A timely look at how students are using AI for brainstorming and editing, and what admissions officers think about it.

A New Tool in the College Prep Toolbox

Artificial Intelligence is changing the way students write—especially when it comes to the college admissions process. Tools like ChatGPT, Grammarly, and Google Gemini are being used to help brainstorm ideas, refine grammar, and organize thoughts.

But in an application process that emphasizes authenticity, students and families are asking an important question: Is it ethical to use AI to help with my college essay?

Let’s explore how students can use AI responsibly—and what admissions officers are really looking for.

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What AI Can (and Can’t) Do

AI writing tools are great at helping students:

• Brainstorm ideas or prompts to get started
• Organize content into a basic structure
• Check grammar, tone, or flow
• Suggest stronger transitions or phrasing

However, they fall short when it comes to:

• Capturing your unique voice and personal story
• Creating a truly original narrative
• Reflecting the nuance of your lived experiences
• Offering insightful self-reflection—a key part of strong college essays

Remember: admissions officers aren’t looking for perfect essays. They’re looking for real students with stories that are honest, reflective, and well-told.

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What Admissions Officers Are Saying in 2025

Colleges know students are using AI tools—and they’re okay with that if used responsibly. The ethics come into play when:

• Students copy-and-paste an AI-generated response without adding their own voice
• The essay misrepresents the student’s abilities, experiences, or identity
• AI is used as a shortcut rather than a tool for improvement

In a recent NACAC (National Association for College Admission Counseling) survey, admissions professionals shared that they are less concerned about whether AI was used, and more concerned with whether the essay reflects authenticity, character, and ownership.

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How to Use AI Ethically in Your Essay Process

At AP College Counseling, I help students strike the right balance. Here’s how you can use AI tools effectively—without losing your voice:

• Use AI to spark ideas, not to write the essay for you
• Ask AI for feedback on structure or clarity, then revise with your own insight
• Run your own writing through AI grammar checkers, but keep your original tone
• Avoid over-editing with AI—your writing should still sound like you

And most importantly…

Be transparent if asked. Some colleges may introduce AI-use disclosure questions in the future (much like asking if an essay was edited by a parent, counselor, or coach).

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The Human Touch Still Matters Most

Here’s the truth: AI can be a helpful assistant, but it cannot replace the process of deep reflection that strong personal statements require. The best college essays come from real moments, real challenges, and real growth—the kind of things no algorithm can invent.

That’s where guided coaching and support come in. At AP College Counseling, I help students:

• Find the stories that matter
• Discover their authentic voice
• Write essays that feel real, personal, and uniquely theirs

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Need Help Crafting Your Essay the Right Way?

Whether you’re using AI tools or not, the essay writing process doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Let’s work together to tell your story—ethically and effectively.