Nearly all UK undergraduates embrace AI tools, HEPI report finds

A new report by the UK's Higher Education Policy Institute (HEPI) reveals that generative AI tools, such as ChatGPT, are now an integral part of undergraduate studies.

According to the survey, 92% of students have used AI in their academic work, while 88% have relied on these tools during exams—a significant jump from February 2024 figures of 66% and 53%, respectively.

The study, which surveyed 1,041 British and international students in the UK during December 2024, highlighted several reasons behind the widespread adoption of AI. Students cited time savings, enhanced work quality, and the availability of instant support as the primary benefits of using AI. However, the enthusiasm for these tools varied among different demographic groups; wealthier students, those in STEM fields, and male respondents were more inclined to embrace AI, while women and younger students expressed greater concerns.

Critics of AI usage among students pointed to issues such as potential cheating, the risk of receiving inaccurate or “hallucinated” results, and inherent biases in AI-generated outputs. Despite these reservations, the majority of students acknowledged the positive impact of clear institutional policies on AI use. Four-fifths of respondents confirmed that their universities have a clear AI policy in place, and 76% believe their institution can detect AI use in assessed work—even though a large majority have already incorporated it into their studies.

Additionally, student confidence in university support for AI-related challenges has grown markedly. While only 18% of students felt that staff were well-equipped to assist with AI last year, that figure has now risen to 42%.

The report underscores a rapid transformation in the academic landscape, with nearly all undergraduates integrating AI into their learning processes, while also highlighting the need for robust measures to address potential pitfalls.

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