Do colleges use AI detectors to check application essays?

Right now, most colleges do not routinely run application essays through AI detectors as part of their admissions process. While there has been a lot of discussion about AI-generated content and its impact on education, there isn't widespread evidence that admissions offices are using dedicated software to weed out essays written by or with the help of AI tools.

Some colleges might experiment with detection tools or consider using them in the future due to increasing accessibility of resources like ChatGPT. However, these detectors are far from perfect. Inaccuracies can easily occur, especially with writing that matches common patterns or formal language, so schools are aware of the limitations. Admissions committees still rely much more on trained readers looking for voice, authenticity, and connection to your experiences.

There also haven't been publicized cases of applicants being penalized or rejected solely due to an AI detection flag. The bigger issue is submitting polished, genuine essays that reflect your personality and insight. If your writing sounds like you and represents your experiences honestly, you shouldn’t be too concerned. If anything, it’s helpful to focus on keeping your essays as personal and specific as possible—a story that only you could tell is very unlikely to get flagged as AI-written.

For example, if you wrote about an inside joke with your family that inspired your perspective, or a quirky part-time job that led to an unexpected lesson, these types of details are both unique and authentic.

Bottom line: use your own words, resist the urge to have AI write your entire essay, and don’t overly stress about detection rumors. Admissions officers want to hear your genuine story. If you use tools to brainstorm or outline, that’s fine—just make sure the final product is unmistakably yours.