Widely available artificial intelligence has changed every aspect of our lives, and college admission is no exception. In the past, high-quality writing assistance was limited to those with access to private college admission counseling or invested school counselors and teachers. Now, with AI-powered tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, and DeepSeek, every student can instantly seek feedback on their writing.
But just because you can doesn’t mean you should. Using AI carelessly in your college application can put your entire future at risk. If you’re thinking about using ChatGPT for your personal statement, supplements, or activities list, STOP and read this first.
Many students see AI as an easy way to get well-written, sophisticated essays to impress admissions officers. But admissions officers know better. Using ChatGPT irresponsibly can get your application flagged and rejected.
Here’s why:
Colleges are already using AI-detection software like Turnitin AI Detection and GPTZero to flag applications that rely too much on AI-generated writing.
What happens if your essay gets flagged?
❌ Your application could be sent for extra scrutiny, making your chances of admission plummet.
❌ If your essay gets flagged at a selective school, they have thousands of other applicants to take your place. Why spend the time to follow up with you?
❌ If admissions officers believe you plagiarized or misrepresented your work, your application will be rejected entirely.
🚨 Risk Level: HIGH – If colleges detect AI writing, you may never get a chance to explain yourself.
Even if AI-detection tools don’t catch you, real people are reading your application.
Admissions officers are trained and well-educated professionals. They read thousands of essays every year. When an essay is vague, overuses AI-generated language, or feels too polished to be written by a teenager, AOs will notice.
Common AI Red Flags in College Essays:
❌ Vague or generic phrases that don’t add meaning or depth (e.g., "Ever since I was young, I have always had a passion for learning.")
❌ A polished but emotionally empty essay with no personal anecdotes or detailed storytelling
❌ A writing style that doesn't match your transcript (a student with B’s in English usually won’t write like a published author) and doesn’t match your other responses
💡 Remember: Colleges aren’t just looking for well-written essays. They’re looking for personality, character, and brave storytelling. If your essay sounds too generic, they may suspect AI.
🚨 Risk Level: HIGH – Admissions officers have good instincts, and the application is built on trust. If they suspect AI, they might doubt your entire application, from your activities to your recommendations.