Recent research by the Higher Education Policy Institute shows that artificial intelligence is quickly becoming a common tool in UK universities. Over 90% of full-time undergraduate students now use AI in their studies—a dramatic increase from just two-thirds a year ago. This rapid adoption is transforming the way students approach their assignments and forcing universities to rethink their assessment strategies.
A Rapid Shift in Student Behavior
According to the survey, a striking 88% of students reported using generative AI tools like ChatGPT for their coursework. In comparison, only 53% of students used these tools last year. The increase is most noticeable among science students, who appear to be the most eager adopters of the technology, while those studying social sciences and humanities remain slightly less engaged. This shift highlights not only a growing comfort with advanced technology but also a changing landscape in academic work.
How AI is Changing the Way Students Work
Students have shared that the main reasons for turning to AI are simple: saving time and improving the quality of their work. With the pressure of deadlines and the desire for polished assignments, AI tools offer quick solutions for brainstorming ideas, drafting content, and even checking for errors. However, the reliance on AI also raises important questions about academic integrity and the authenticity of student work.
Editing Is Key
The survey found that while 25% of students now believe it is acceptable to include AI-generated text in assignments if it is edited, only a small 6% think that using unedited AI content is appropriate. This trend shows that students are beginning to understand the importance of personal input and oversight, even when AI can provide a strong initial draft.
The Challenge for Educators
Josh Freeman, policy manager at the Higher Education Policy Institute, warned that every assignment now requires careful review. “Every assessment must be reviewed in case it can be completed easily using AI,” he explained. This rapid change is pushing universities to implement bold new policies and retraining initiatives for staff so they can better understand and manage the use of generative AI in academic work.
Many lecturers now find themselves in a position where they must balance the benefits of AI with the need to maintain academic standards. Some educators admit that the rules surrounding AI use remain vague. One student described the situation as “vague and up in the air if/when it can be used and why,” while another noted that the messaging from lecturers is mixed—some use AI themselves while cautioning students against overreliance.
Digital Divides in AI Competency
The survey also revealed a “persistent digital divide” among students. Men and those from wealthier backgrounds are more likely to be frequent users of AI, suggesting that access to technology and digital literacy still play significant roles in how students benefit from AI. Nearly half of the students mentioned that they had already been using AI tools during their school years, indicating that the technology is not just a university phenomenon but has been part of their educational journey for some time.
What Lies Ahead for Universities
While it is encouraging that more students feel their educators are becoming better equipped to support AI use—evidenced by an increase from 18% to 42% in students’ confidence—many still express uncertainty about the official guidelines. As universities work to refine their policies, the focus will need to be on balancing the innovative potential of AI with robust measures to ensure academic integrity.
Janice Kay, director of Higher Futures and author of the report’s foreword, sees both promise and challenge in this new era. She notes, “There is little evidence here that AI tools are being misused to cheat and play the system. However, there are signs that serious challenges lie ahead for learners, teachers, and institutions.” As higher education continues to evolve, universities must address these challenges head-on to support a fair and effective learning environment.
A Call for Clearer Guidelines and Support
The mixed messages regarding AI usage underline the need for clear, consistent policies. Students and educators alike are calling for more definitive guidelines that explain not only what is allowed but also how AI should be integrated into academic work responsibly. With rapid technological advances, this clarity will be essential in ensuring that both teaching and learning can evolve together in a balanced manner.
The surge in AI usage among university students is a clear sign that the educational landscape is changing. While the benefits of AI are undeniable—helping students save time and produce higher-quality work—the challenges it brings require thoughtful strategies and collaboration between students, educators, and policymakers. As AI becomes an integral part of academic life, the journey toward effective and ethical integration will undoubtedly continue.
