The demand for AI in higher education has increased at a rate faster than the institutions can update curriculums and support systems. Students are already using generative AI but the problem is how institutions can mitigate problems regarding uneven advantage or misconduct policy and risk.

1. Student AI use has already become normal

Source: HEPI / Kortext Student Generative AI Survey 2025.

In the HEPI / Kortext survey, student AI use rose sharply between 2024 and 2025, including use of generative AI in assessments. That means AI use is not considered to be marginal behaviour but used by nearly all students. This trajectory is cause for concern when thinking about institutional lag.

2. Students are using AI across the assessment process

Source: HEPI / Kortext Student Generative AI Survey 2025.

Students are using AI in ways which they werent able to before due to recent technological advancements. Students use it to explain concepts, summarise material, suggest ideas and support drafting.

3. Institutional support has not caught up

Source: HEPI / Kortext Student Generative AI Survey 2025.

Many students report that the use of AI is an important skill but institutions have not provided enough support regarding developing the skills necessary for using AI effectively.

4. Australian universities face this shift at a time when students are fragile.

Source: QILT 2024 Student Experience Survey.

The Australian QILT data adds context. Student belonging fell sharply during the pandemic and since then, undergraduates sense of belonging has not recovered to pre-pandemic levels.

5. The labour market is already signalling what graduates will need

Source: World Economic Forum Future of Jobs Report 2025.

The World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs data points in the same direction: AI and data skills have become most valued in the workforce. Treating AI literacy as an academic integrity problem only would mean that prospective graduates entering the work-force aren’t getting the preparation they need to adapt in a world where technology is rapidly evolving.