AI checking in college admissions?

I heard that colleges use some sort of AI (Artificial Intelligence) to go through applications. What exactly does this AI check for, and how does it affect the admissions process? Just trying to get a better understanding of what's behind the scenes and whether I should be concerned as an applicant.

AI and technology indeed play a role in modern college admissions, but it's important to recognize that they do not replace human judgment in the admissions process. Instead, they primarily serve as a tool to assist admissions officers in sorting through the high volume of applications they receive each year. Here's a brief overview of some ways AI might be involved in the admissions process:

1. Preliminary Screening:

Some colleges use AI to perform initial screening of applications, particularly when it comes to assessing the Academic Index (AI). The Academic Index is a numerical value representing your academic achievements, test scores (if applicable), and class rank.

If your AI value falls below a school's cutoff, your application may not receive full consideration. However, if you meet the threshold, admissions officers will generally proceed with a more in-depth, holistic review of your application.

2. Essay Analysis:

Certain institutions might use AI to analyze essays and identify potential plagiarism or uniqueness within the essay. This often serves as an early flag for admissions officers but does not make the final decision on whether an essay is plagiarized or not.

3. Distribution of Applications:

In some cases, AI might help distribute applications to appropriate admissions officers based on a variety of factors, such as region, intended major, and other factors. This helps ensure that the most qualified and knowledgeable officers are reviewing each application.

4. Assist with Data Analysis:

AI can be used to track patterns and trends in applications over time, helping institutions make data-driven decisions about their admissions processes. This might include identifying which activities or experiences are most correlated with successful applicants or analyzing how students' background characteristics affect their likelihood of acceptance.

It's important to remember that AI doesn't replace the human element in admissions; it's just a tool meant to make the process more efficient and fair. As an applicant, you should continue to focus on presenting your best self in your application, showcasing your unique experiences, contributions, and future potential. Ultimately, humans still make the final admissions decisions, and your personal story and the comprehensive picture of your application is what will ultimately influence the outcome.