Perspectives on AI in College Admissions and the Future of Higher Education

As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes increasingly integrated into college admissions, it raises questions about trust, fairness, and transparency. This study examines how undergraduate students at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill perceive AI in admissions, focusing on awareness, trust, perceived benefits and risks, and concerns about equity. Using survey data and open-ended responses, the findings show that students hold nuanced and cautious views. While respondents recognize AI’s potential to improve efficiency and manage large applicant pools, they express concerns about bias, inaccuracy, and reduced human involvement. Students are more comfortable with AI in supportive roles than in decision-making positions, and most prefer a model in which human judgment remains central. Limited awareness of AI use also shaped perceptions of fairness and legitimacy. Overall, acceptance of AI in admissions is conditional and depends on transparency, accountability, and meaningful human oversight.