AI for Choosing a School or University: Research With a Critical Eye

Choosing where to study is a big decision. AI can help you organise the search, as long as you verify details and trust your own priorities.

• Priorities: subjects, location, class size, support, cost and culture.
• Questions to ask at open days and interviews.
• Pros and cons tables for shortlisted options.

• Summarising prospectuses and course content.
• Comparing courses and entry requirements.
• Understanding admissions processes and deadlines.
• Funding and cost planning: fees, living costs, scholarships and bursaries (verify with official sources).
• Commuting and accommodation considerations.

• Personal statement planning: structure and prompts (the story and voice must be yours).
• Interview practice with mock questions.
• Deadline calendars and checklists.
• Reference and supporting-document checklists.

• Facts change: entry requirements, fees and rankings update. Check official sites.
• Rankings measure particular things and may not reflect your needs.
• Don't submit AI-written statements. Many institutions check for authenticity, and admissions teams want your voice.
• Be careful with agents and "guaranteed" offers. Scams exist.
• Bias: AI may favour well-known institutions.

1. Write your own list of priorities.
2. Use AI to build a shortlist and generate questions.
3. Visit or attend virtual events, and talk to students.
4. Read official data and independent reviews.
5. Decide with the people who know you.

AI helps you organise and compare. The decision should reflect your goals, values and real experience of the place.