Virginia Tech Embraces AI to Streamline Admissions
On August 1, Virginia Tech officially implemented artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to support its admissions process for the upcoming 2026 academic cycle. This marks a significant evolution from the traditional method, which relied solely on human evaluation. The new system incorporates AI to assist in the review of applications, specifically replacing one of the two human readers previously involved in the assessment process.
According to university representatives, this shift is designed to enhance the efficiency, accuracy, and consistency of application reviews. The move follows a notable 10.2% increase in applications from fall 2024 to fall 2025, prompting the need for a more scalable and timely approach to admissions.
Improving Efficiency and Consistency
Previously, Virginia Tech’s admissions process involved two human readers scoring each applicant’s personal essay on a 12-point scale. If there was a discrepancy of more than four points between the two scores, a third reader would be brought in to evaluate the essay. With the integration of AI, the process now includes one human reader and one AI review. If their scores differ by more than two points, a second human reader will assess the application.
“Artificial intelligence helps us to read our growing number of essays quicker, with more accuracy and consistency, so that families and students can receive the feedback in a timely manner,” said Mark Owczarski, spokesperson for Virginia Tech.
The updated threshold of two points — reduced from four — aims to tighten the evaluation criteria and ensure that essays meet the university’s expectations. “From four to two means we’re actually going to be more stringent on making sure the essay is addressing things that we’re seeking it to address,” Owczarski added.
Three Years of Research and Development
The decision to integrate AI into the admissions pipeline was not made lightly. It follows three years of collaborative research conducted by the admissions staff and faculty within the College of Engineering. This extensive study examined how AI could be effectively and ethically utilized to support human judgment in application reviews.
Virginia Tech emphasized that the AI reviewer uses only internal university data and resources, ensuring that no third-party algorithms influence admissions decisions. “We’ve got three years of work and study to see how it can help our process, and the assessment of it will begin moving forward with the actual admissions process,” Owczarski explained.
Maintaining Human Oversight
Despite the adoption of AI, university officials are adamant that human judgment remains central to the admissions process. The AI system serves as a tool to support, not replace, the nuanced evaluations made by experienced admissions professionals.
“It’s the responsibility of the Office of Admissions to ensure that the process of applying is handled well and handled fairly,” Owczarski affirmed. He added that the admissions team will continuously monitor the AI’s performance and make necessary adjustments to uphold transparency and fairness.
Application Cycle Timeline
The fall 2026 admissions cycle began on August 1, with the early action application deadline set for November 1. During this period, the admissions team will actively analyze trends and outcomes from the AI-supported review process. This ongoing evaluation will help refine the system and ensure it aligns with the university’s values and standards.
As prospective students submit their applications, Virginia Tech aims to provide timely and consistent feedback, thanks in part to the increased efficiency brought by AI. The university hopes this innovation will not only improve the applicant experience but also establish a model for how technology can responsibly enhance higher education admissions.
A Balanced Approach to Technological Integration
While some universities have experimented with AI in limited capacities, Virginia Tech’s approach is one of the more comprehensive and carefully studied implementations in higher education today. By maintaining a balance between automation and human oversight, the institution seeks to ensure that every applicant is evaluated with fairness and integrity.
As the admissions cycle progresses, Virginia Tech’s initiative will likely serve as a case study for other schools considering similar technological enhancements. The university remains committed to transparency and will continue to share insights and outcomes from this groundbreaking approach.
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