TLDR: Recent surveys indicate a dramatic increase in generative AI tool adoption among university students, with nearly 9 out of 10 using AI for assessments. While students leverage AI for efficiency and quality, concerns about cheating and accuracy persist. Institutions face the challenge of developing clear policies and enhancing staff AI literacy to guide this evolving landscape.
New data from recent surveys, including a comprehensive study by HEPI and Kortext, highlight a significant surge in the use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools among higher education students. The ‘Student Generative AI Survey 2025’ reveals that the proportion of students utilizing generative AI for assessments has jumped from 53% last year to a striking 88% this year. Overall, the use of any AI tool by students has risen from 66% to 92% in the same period.
Students are primarily employing generative AI to explain complex concepts, summarize articles, and suggest research ideas. ‘Generating text’ emerged as the most popular reason for AI use, followed by editing work and accessing university textbooks. Many students find AI to be a powerful productivity enhancer, with 51% citing time-saving as a main reason and 50% believing it improves the quality of their work. One student enthusiastically noted, ‘The productivity of work since has been off the chain. Absolutely brilliant.’
Despite the widespread adoption, students harbor significant concerns. A majority (53%) are deterred by the fear of being accused of cheating, and 51% worry about receiving false results or ‘hallucinations’ from AI tools. Another student expressed this apprehension, stating, ‘I enjoy working with AI as it makes life easier when doing assignments however I do get scared I’ll get caught.’ Furthermore, an Inside Higher Ed survey found that first-generation students were less confident in the appropriate use cases for AI compared to their continuing-generation peers, suggesting potential equity implications.
Institutions appear to be lagging in providing clear guidance. Only 29% of higher education students feel their institution ‘encourages’ them to use AI, while 40% disagree. However, there’s a positive trend in staff preparedness, with 42% of students now suggesting staff are ‘well-equipped’ to assist them with AI, a notable increase from 18% in 2024.
The survey also touched upon academic integrity and assessment. A significant 18% of students admitted to including AI-generated text directly in their assignments. Interestingly, 40% of students believe AI-created content would achieve a good grade in their subject, compared to 34% who disagree. When considering AI-assessed exams, 34% of students indicated they would put in more effort, 29% less, and 27% would maintain their current effort levels.
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In response to these findings, the HEPI and Kortext report recommends that institutions urgently ‘stress-test’ their assessments for AI vulnerability, adopt balanced policies that support AI skill development while educating on risks, and foster collaboration on AI policy and best practices. The landscape of higher education is rapidly adapting to AI, necessitating proactive strategies from institutions to harness its benefits while mitigating its challenges.
