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Politics, Belonging, and AI: What’s Really Shaping College Lists in 2025
This year’s college list is about more than where a student can get in. It is about where they will be understood, supported, and prepared for what comes next. Politics, belonging, and technology are all shaping the process, but the most important voice is still the student’s own.
Choose colleges that reflect who you are and where you want to grow. That is how you build a list that truly fits.
Here are three of the biggest shifts we are seeing in 2025, along with one tip to help students respond with clarity and confidence:
1. Politics Are Influencing College Choices
For the first time, politics are playing a leading role in the college search process. Nearly one in three students recently reported removing a college from their list because of political concerns. Some were uncomfortable with the policies of the state. Others felt the campus culture did not reflect their values or priorities.
This trend started to emerge during the pandemic, when college decisions around safety and public health became highly politicized. Since then, issues like reproductive rights, gun legislation, and free speech have led students to pay closer attention to state policies and campus climates.
Tip: As you build your list, research both the college and the state it is located in. Read student newspapers, browse campus social media accounts, and ask questions during info sessions. You are not just choosing a school. You are choosing a home for the next four years.
2. Belonging Is Driving the Search
More students are beginning their college search with one essential question: Will I belong here? Belonging means more than just fitting in academically. It includes emotional well-being, cultural inclusion, and the ability to be yourself.
At a time when some institutions are being asked to scale back diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, students are watching how colleges support student wellness and community. In recent surveys, over half of students said a college’s commitment to diversity was a key factor in their decision to apply. Many also said they were looking for campuses where a range of perspectives could be shared respectfully.
Tip: Ask current students how they found their place on campus. Look for support services, affinity groups, and wellness resources. A strong academic program matters, but so does feeling like you are seen and supported.
3. AI Is Everywhere, But Students Still Trust People
Artificial intelligence is changing the college search in real time. Students are using AI tools to discover new schools, explore majors, and even get feedback on essays. Some AI-powered platforms have grown rapidly in the last year. But most students still do not fully trust AI to guide their college choices.
Students want fast, flexible tools, but they also want human support. They are blending tech-driven exploration with advice from counselors, teachers, and family members. They are learning that AI can be a helpful tool, but it cannot replace thoughtful conversations and real-world context.
Tip: Use AI as a springboard, not a shortcut. Let it help you brainstorm or explore options, but verify what you learn through direct research and trusted voices. Your decisions deserve more than a quick search result.