Guidance for Ethical AI Use in College Applications

At [Institution Name], we value honesty, originality, and personal growth. As AI tools like ChatGPT become more accessible, we believe it’s important to be transparent about how they may (and may not) be used in the college application process.

AI tools may be used much like a writing tutor or teacher, to support your thinking, not replace it.

You may use AI tools to: - Brainstorm ideas or topics for your application - Help organize your thoughts or structure your writing - Refine grammar or improve clarity of your own words

The writing and ideas you submit should represent your voice and perspective.

You should not use AI tools to: - Write full paragraphs or essays for you - Create your central message, argument, or story - Replace your tone or change your personal voice

(Option 1) Guiding Principles for Responsible AI Use in Your Application:

• If your writing doesn’t sound like something you’d say aloud or explain in your own words, it probably isn’t yours—and shouldn’t be submitted.

• If your writing suddenly sounds more advanced or polished than anything you’ve written before, take a moment to ask if it still sounds like you.

• If you’re copying and pasting large portions of AI-generated text without major edits or rewriting in your own voice, you’ve likely gone too far.

• If you feel uncomfortable taking full credit for what’s written, trust that instinct. Your application should reflect your authentic effort.
  

(Option 2) A Few Quick Self-Checks 

Before you submit, ask yourself:

• Does this sound like something I’d say out loud or explain in my own words?

• Does the tone or polish feel consistent with how I usually write?

• Did I rely on AI to write this for me, rather than help me express my ideas?

• Would I feel fully comfortable putting my name next to this?

At [Institution Name], we want to understand who you are, not who an algorithm thinks you should be. Your application is your opportunity to share your experiences, your voice, and your story. That’s something no AI can truly replicate.

Remember: Admissions isn’t looking for perfection. We’re looking for perspective, potential, and your unique story. Use the tools you have to be your best self, not someone else's version of you.

This guidance applies to all written and creative parts of your application, including short answers, activity descriptions, supplemental essays, and any optional materials you submit.

If you’re submitting multimedia, creative work, or video responses, be thoughtful about how AI tools are used to support (not replace) your original effort.

We recognize that students have different levels of access to technology and support. Using AI tools is not required or expected, and your application will not be evaluated differently based on whether or not you used them.

This statement was developed using AI tools to test tone and clarity, but all final language and intent were created and reviewed by humans. That’s the kind of thoughtful use we encourage from our applicants as well.