Feeling overwhelmed by the college search? You're not alone. With thousands of schools to choose from and many factors to consider — location, size, cost, academics, campus vibe — it's easy to feel unsure about where to start. That's where artificial intelligence (AI) can help.

AI is starting to change how students approach their college search. From personalized recommendations to anonymous Q&A chats, AI is giving students more control, clarity and confidence throughout the college search process.

In this guide, we'll walk you through the best ways to use AI to choose a university, including helpful tools, benefits and tips to get started. (And while you don't have to choose Bucknell, with 60+ majors, hands-on research opportunities from day one, and a vibrant campus community with everything from Division I athletics to a dynamic Greek life, we think you'll want to.) Whether you're just beginning your search or narrowing down your list, AI might be the extra guidance you didn't know you needed.

Ways AI Can Help Your College Search

Before diving into the "how," let's talk about the "why." Why should high school students consider using AI for something as personal and important as selecting a college?

AI, Powered by You

Traditional search engines or college fairs can offer too much information with too little guidance. AI-powered tools can tailor suggestions based on:

• Your academic interests
• Preferred location and campus size
• Test scores and GPA
• Learning style and extracurricular preferences
• Financial constraints

This means you'll get college matches that actually make sense for you, not just the most popular or highly ranked ones.

AI Helps You Narrow the Field

With so many colleges to choose from, it can be hard to know where to begin. AI tools help you filter out the noise by sorting schools based on your individual needs and goals. They offer structure to what can otherwise feel like an overwhelming process.

AI Provides Clear Next Steps

AI doesn't just list schools — it helps you think ahead. It can guide you through the next stages of your journey, from identifying gaps in your application to suggesting essay themes or planning campus visits. It acts as a planner as well as a search assistant.

How to Use AI for Your College Search: Three Smart Steps

Here's how to use AI in a practical, step-by-step way that mirrors how most students start their college search — then refine and finalize it.

Step 1: Build a College List with AI

Start by asking AI to generate a list of reach, target and safety schools based on your academic background, interests and preferred location or campus type.

"I'm a high school junior with a 3.7 GPA and an interest in biology and sustainability. I want a midsize college on the East Coast with strong research opportunities. Please give me a list of reach, target and safety schools.

"I have a 3.5 GPA and a 1250 SAT score. I'm interested in psychology and want a college on the West Coast. Can you suggest reach, target and safety schools?"

Then layer in more specifics:

"Please prioritize colleges that offer strong undergraduate research programs and have active environmental clubs."

"Which of these schools have high graduation rates and offer merit-based scholarships for out-of-state students?"

Step 2: Refine Your List with Targeted Prompts

Once you've built your starter list, dig deeper using AI to refine your options based on what matters most to you.

Academic and Career Fit

"Which colleges on the East Coast offer strong journalism programs and study abroad opportunities in Europe?

"What schools have high graduation rates and strong job placement in the tech industry?"

Campus Culture and Environment

"What midsize colleges in the Midwest have active Greek life and Division I sports?"

"Find liberal arts colleges known for small class sizes and close faculty relationships."

Financial Fit

"Which colleges in New England offer need-based aid and have a strong reputation in environmental science?

"Show me private universities in the South that are generous with merit scholarships."

"Create a one-week road trip of colleges in Pennsylvania and New York with strong business programs."

"Which of the colleges on this list offer virtual campus tours?"

Comparing Schools

"Compare these three schools — Bucknell, Lehigh and Lafayette — based on class size, retention rate and average debt after graduation."

Strategy and Self-reflection

"What questions should I ask during a campus tour if I'm interested in undergraduate research?"

"How do I know if a school is a good academic, social and financial fit for me?"

Step 3: Organize and Compare Your Options

Once you have a list of colleges, AI can help you compare them on specific metrics: cost, diversity, average class size, graduation rates and more. Copy your schools into a spreadsheet and ask AI to help compare key metrics:

"Which of the schools on my list has the best support for first-generation college students?"

"Can you organize these colleges by the lowest average student loan debt at graduation?"

This step brings your priorities into sharper focus and helps support well-informed decisions.