A new global survey by online textbook and tutoring service company Chegg reveals that artificial intelligence has become a staple for higher education students, with 80 percent of nearly 12,000 undergraduate respondents across 15 countries using generative AI tools to support their studies.
However, while adaptation is high, trust in these tools remains a significant concern, with more than half of AI users worried about receiving inaccurate information. Both usage and concerns over trustworthiness have grown in recent years, and as students see AI growing more important in the future, they’re calling for education-specific tools, AI training and workforce preparation.
In addition to the higher population of students using AI, the survey highlights that students are turning to AI more frequently. In 2023, 50 percent told Chegg they were inputting one question a day or more. A year later, that number was up to 57 percent. The most common uses included breaking down complex topics and assisting with assignments, whether it be helping with research, generating ideas and drafts, or writing and editing essays.
The survey indicates a major shift in how students seek academic help. In 2023, only 10 percent turned to generative AI (GenAI) first when struggling with coursework. That number has now risen to 29 percent, surpassing traditional free online resources (24 percent) and peer support (15 percent). More students are turning to GenAI first and frequently.
The survey also reflected an understanding that AI is here to stay and a desire for cost-effective alternatives in higher education. Recent research from the Education Data Initiative found the average cost of tuition at four-year public colleges and universities rose 141 percent over the last 20 years, well outpacing inflation. The potential for cost savings is a long-touted benefit of technology, including AI, that it seems students are responding to.
The majority of respondents, 70 percent, said they would prefer more online learning options if it meant lower tuition costs, while 69 percent supported shorter degree programs to reduce financial burdens.
Higher education can also contribute to emotional burdens. Just 58 percent of students surveyed by Chegg rated their mental health as “good” or “excellent,” and 13 percent rated it “poor” or “very poor.” Globally, 43 percent reported feelings of academic burnout, 44 percent reported daily feelings of anxiety and 55 percent reported not getting enough sleep. However, these numbers have decreased since the 2023 report. Feelings of daily anxiety, for example, dropped by 10 percentage points from 2023 to 2025.
Overall, students still feel education is a good investment and are hopeful about their financial futures. Forty percent said their degree will be more valuable in an AI-driven workforce.
Students increasingly expect their schools to prepare them with relevant skills to thrive in this changing career landscape, with 69 percent saying AI should be incorporated into their curriculum — a rise from 65 percent in 2023.
However, students feel strong concerns about AI accuracy and want tailored tools for that education. The top-three improvements students sought in GenAI tools were AI solutions specific to academic needs, human involvement in generating answers and data privacy safeguards.
“With AI and emerging technologies transforming education, careers and industries at an unprecedented pace, we must collectively ensure that students are prepared to thrive, holistically, in a future that is constantly being redefined,” the Chegg report reads.
