The University of Michigan Law School Implements AI Ban in Application Process

The University of Michigan Law School's admissions department has introduced a groundbreaking policy to ensure personal statements and application essays submitted by aspiring attorneys are genuine reflections of their traits and writing abilities. However, there's a significant caveat – using ChatGPT and other artificial intelligence tools in the drafting process is explicitly prohibited.
 

In what appears to be an unprecedented move among law schools, applicants are now required to certify that they have not utilized any AI tools while creating their essays. Violating this certification could result in severe consequences, such as admission revocation or expulsion. This policy aims to maintain the authenticity of applicants' submissions and level the playing field for all candidates.
 
Senior Assistant Dean Sarah Zearfoss explains that the decision to be upfront with applicants about the AI ban and demand their commitment was deemed appropriate. While enforcing the ban may pose challenges, Zearfoss relies on applicants' integrity, just as she does with various other aspects of the application process.
 
Though Michigan Law leads the charge in implementing this AI ban, it is not alone. According to law school admissions consultant Mike Spivey, several other institutions are considering following suit. Spivey predicts that approximately half of all law schools will introduce some form of AI policy for applications this year, with nearly all schools adopting similar policies by the following year.
 
However, not all schools will likely enact a blanket ban on AI usage. Some may prefer a more lenient approach and request that applicants disclose whether they utilized AI technology in their application preparation.
 
For instance, the University of California, Berkeley School of Law, having been the first to adopt a formal AI policy for classroom use, has chosen not to ban ChatGPT from the application process explicitly. According to Assistant Dean of Admissions Kristin Theis-Alvarez, applicants' requirement to affirm their work's originality adequately covers the use of generative AI like ChatGPT. However, she doesn't rule out the possibility of seeking AI-specific certifications from applicants in the future.
 
As AI continues to play an increasingly significant role in various fields, educational institutions are grappling with the challenges of maintaining academic integrity while leveraging AI technology's benefits. The University of Michigan Law School's bold step in implementing this AI ban sets an essential precedent, highlighting the importance of genuine and transparent applications in the admissions process. Other schools are closely observing these developments, and AI policies will likely continue to evolve in the academic landscape.