Despite AI’s rise, students still rely on human guidance for final decisions to study abroad: Survey

Artificial intelligence is increasingly shaping how students plan to study abroad, but human guidance remains central to their final decisions.

The Emerging Futures: Voice of the International Student survey by IDP shows that 54% of prospective international students intend to use AI platforms like ChatGPT and Gemini to decide which universities to apply to.

Another 53% plan to use AI to choose academic programs. Last year, only 35% and 38% of students said the same, indicating a sharp rise in AI adoption.

The survey, conducted in July and August 2025 among nearly 8,000 students worldwide, highlights how AI is quietly influencing early research and exploration.

Despite the growing use of AI, traditional guidance continues to hold sway. The 2025 Student Communication Preferences survey by US-based education consultancy EAB shows that students still value in-person experiences and official resources.

About 34% said campus visits and education fairs were their most trusted sources, while 30% relied on official university websites.

Another 26% turned to high school teachers, counselors, and coaches for personal guidance, underscoring the enduring importance of human interaction.

Only 3% of students reported fully trusting AI for study abroad decisions.

Many use ChatGPT or Gemini to compare countries, estimate costs, or shortlist courses, but ultimately confirm their choices with counsellors and university representatives.

Experts describe this trend as a “hybrid mindset” among Gen Z students, digitally fluent and experimental, yet cautious about misinformation.

Universities are responding by blending AI-driven tools with personalized counselling and alumni engagement.

As technology and human guidance increasingly intersect, AI is moving beyond experimentation to become an integral part of the student journey.